Water rowers have gained popularity in recent years, providing a unique and effective way to get a full-body workout while simulating the experience of rowing on water.

With their sleek designs and fluid resistance systems, these machines offer a smooth, natural rowing motion that’s easy on the joints but still packs a punch when it comes to building strength and endurance.

If you’re considering adding a water rower to your home gym, you’re probably wondering which one is the best fit for you. To help you make the right choice, we’ve put together our honest reviews of the top 5 water rowers on the market.

1. WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine

Best for: Aesthetic appeal and premium quality

The WaterRower Natural is not just a rowing machine—it’s a piece of art. Constructed from solid ash wood, this rower blends seamlessly into any home decor while providing a smooth, realistic rowing experience. The water resistance system delivers a natural feel, and the ergonomic seat and handle ensure a comfortable session, even during extended workouts.

• Pros:
  • Beautiful wooden frame adds elegance to your home gym
  • Quiet, smooth operation
  • Great build quality and durability
  • Water resistance creates a realistic rowing sensation
• Cons:
  • Higher price point compared to other models
  • Bulkier due to the wooden frame

Our take: If you’re looking for a stylish, high-quality rower that delivers both performance and aesthetics, the WaterRower Natural is an excellent choice. Its natural water resistance makes it feel like you’re rowing on a lake, and its solid construction ensures it will last for years.

2. First Degree Fitness Newport AR Water Rower

Best for: Adjustable resistance and value

The First Degree Fitness Newport AR offers a great balance between performance and price. This rower features an adjustable resistance system, allowing you to easily switch between light and intense workouts. Its sturdy, steel frame ensures durability, while the large water tank provides a realistic rowing experience.

• Pros:
  • Adjustable resistance system accommodates various fitness levels
  • Smooth, quiet rowing motion
  • Sturdy build for durability
  • Good value for the price
• Cons:
  • Bulkier design, taking up more space
  • Resistance may feel a bit light for more advanced users

Our take: If you’re looking for an affordable water rower with adjustable resistance, the Newport AR is a great option. It’s well-suited for both beginners and intermediate users, providing flexibility in your workouts without breaking the bank.

3. Hydrow Rower

Best for: Immersive, interactive workouts

If you want more than just a standard rowing machine, the Hydrow Rower is for you. This rower combines high-end performance with cutting-edge technology to create an immersive, interactive workout experience. The built-in HD screen offers live and on-demand rowing classes, allowing you to row on famous waterways around the world from the comfort of your home. Hydrow’s electromagnetic resistance system provides a smooth, whisper-quiet rowing motion.

• Pros:
  • Large HD screen for interactive workouts
  • Quiet electromagnetic resistance system
  • Sleek, modern design
  • Live and on-demand classes to keep you motivated
• Cons:
  • Expensive compared to other water rowers
  • Requires a monthly subscription for interactive features

Our take: The Hydrow Rower is perfect for those who want an interactive, engaging workout experience. While it’s on the pricier side, its technology and immersive classes make it stand out in the market. If you’re looking for motivation and variety in your workouts, Hydrow delivers.

4. XTERRA ERG650W Water Rower

Best for: Budget-friendly option with great features

The XTERRA ERG650W is an excellent option for those on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice performance. With a solid steel frame and six levels of water resistance, this rower offers a great range of intensity options for users of all fitness levels. The rower features a comfortable, padded seat and adjustable footrests, ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride every time.

• Pros:
  • Affordable price with plenty of features
  • Six water resistance levels
  • Compact, foldable design for easy storage
  • Solid steel frame for durability
• Cons:
  • Smaller water tank, which may reduce resistance
  • Less smooth than some higher-end models

Our take: If you’re looking for an affordable water rower with adjustable resistance and solid build quality, the XTERRA ERG650W is a fantastic choice. It offers many features found in more expensive models but at a fraction of the price, making it great for beginners or those on a budget.

5. Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500

Best for: Compact design and portability

The Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500 offers a sleek, space-saving design without compromising on performance. Its water resistance system creates a smooth rowing motion, while the adjustable foot pedals and cushioned seat provide a comfortable workout. The rower is compact and easy to move, making it perfect for small spaces or those who need a portable option.

• Pros:
  • Compact design, ideal for small spaces
  • Affordable price
  • Smooth, quiet water resistance
  • Easy to move with transport wheels
• Cons:
  • Lacks some advanced features like adjustable resistance
  • Basic LCD monitor with limited tracking features

Our take: If you’re short on space or need a rower that’s easy to move around, the Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500 is a great option. It’s compact, affordable, and still delivers a solid rowing experience, though it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models.

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Conclusion: Which Water Rower Is Right for You?

Choosing the best water rower depends on your fitness goals, space, and budget.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500 features a sleek, space-saving design while maintaining top-notch performance.

For those who value aesthetics and high performance, the WaterRower Natural is a great investment.

If you’re on a budget but still want excellent functionality, the XTERRA ERG650W offers a lot of value.

For tech-savvy users looking for an interactive experience, the Hydrow Rower is unmatched in its immersive technology.

The First Degree Fitness Newport AR strikes an excellent balance between performance and price, featuring an adjustable resistance system for a customized workout.

Whatever your needs, there’s a water rower out there for you.

Each of these machines offers a unique blend of features, so take your time to find the one that best fits your lifestyle and fitness goals.