Home Fitness Why I Love My Hydrow Rower (2025 Review)
Why I Love My Hydrow Rower (2025 Review)
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Why I Love My Hydrow Rower (2025 Review)

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I’ve always been looking for a workout that keeps me engaged and motivated, and that’s when I stumbled upon the Hydrow. This sleek, high-tech rowing machine promises an immersive experience beyond burning calories. But does it really live up to the hype?

In this review, I’ll dive into my firsthand experience with the Hydrow, breaking down everything from its design and features to the actual workout sessions.

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just someone looking to switch up your routine, stick around to see if the Hydrow could be your next favorite piece of equipment.

Pros

  • Modern and sleek design: The elegant, yet sturdy build, along with the impressive 22-inch HD touchscreen display, adds a touch of sophistication. Plus, the machine is compact and space-efficient, fitting comfortably even in smaller homes.
  • Workout variety: It’s not just monotonous rowing back and forth. There are live and on-demand classes that keep things fresh and exciting. The trainers are engaging and make you feel like you’re part of a community.
  • Immersive technology: The on-the-water sessions, filmed in various picturesque locations, make you feel like you’re actually rowing on a river or lake. The high-quality audio and visual elements set Hydrow apart from other rowing machines.
  • Smoothest rowing machine: Hydrow’s resistance system is smooth and quiet, so I can workout without disturbing the rest of the household. The machine’s response to my strokes feels natural and fluid, like rowing on water. 
  • Performance tracking: The detailed metrics on distance, time, and calories burned allow me to track my progress and set new goals. The real-time feedback is incredibly helpful in pushing myself further each session.
  • Realtime leaderboards: Know how you stack up against the rest of the world in real time with the leaderboard for each workout in the Hydrow app.

Cons

  • Price: This rowing machine isn’t cheap and might be a significant investment for many people. Even though you get a lot of advanced technology, it’s still something to consider if you’re on a budget.
  • Subscription fee: Although these classes are a great way to stay motivated, they require an ongoing monthly fee. For those who prefer a one-time payment or free workouts, this could be a downside.
  • Requires strong and stable internet: If you live in an area with inconsistent internet service, this could affect the quality of your workouts. The last thing you want is a buffering screen interrupting your rhythm during an intense rowing session.

Hydrow Rower

Hydrow Pro Rower

An immersive rowing experience with the smoothest glide and quietest strokes.

CHECK CURRENT DEALS
Hydrow Rower

Who Is Hydrow For?

  • Those who love immersive instructor-led workouts.
  • Anyone needing extra motivation to work out.
  • Complete beginners to rowing or fitness.
  • Advanced rowers who want to challenge their fitness on the worldwide leaderboard.

Who Is Hydrow Not For?

  • Those on a tight budget or looking for a more affordable fitness solution.
  • People with limited space.
  • If you have poor internet.

What Is Hydrow?

Hydrow Pro Review

Hydrow is more than just a rowing machine; it’s like having a personal coach, a rowing team, and a full fitness studio all in one. It’s designed with a sleek, modern look that enhances any home gym. 

It was founded by Bruce Smith, who serves as CEO and has a deep background in rowing. The company aims to offer an immersive indoor rowing experience through its advanced Live Outdoor Reality™ (LOR) technology, which simulates real-world rowing environments with high-quality video and sound. 

This setup provides users with a highly engaging and realistic rowing experience from the comfort of their home.

The centerpiece of this machine is its 22-inch HD touchscreen, which brings workouts to life by streaming live and on-demand rowing sessions directly from waterways around the world. 

When you hop on a Hydrow, you feel like you’re gliding across a river in Miami or rowing down the Charles River in Cambridge.

The live classes are led by professional athletes who provide real-time feedback and motivation, making it feel like they’re right there with you. Plus, hundreds of on-demand workouts range from beginner to advanced levels, including different workout lengths and styles. 

Hydrow Model Comparison

Currently, Hydrow offers three rowing machine models: the Hydrow Wave Rower, Hydrow Pro Rower, and Hydrow Vista Rower.

FeatureHydrow Wave RowerHydrow Pro RowerHydrow Vista Rower
Screen Size/Resolution16″ / 1920×108022″ / 1920×1080Curved 27″ / 2560×1440
Screen AdjustmentFixed, no pivotAdjusts 15°, pivots 25° left & rightAdjusts 15°, pivots 180° left & right
Product Footprint80″L x 19″W x 43″H, 102 lbs86″L x 25″W x 47″H, 145 lbs86″L x 25″W x 47″H, 160 lbs
Stored Dimensions26.5″W x 30″D x 82″H25″W x 33″D x 86″H25″W x 33″D x 86″H
Shipping Box & Weight51″L x 20″W x 19″H, 128 lbs91″L x 18″W x 33″H, 198 lbs91″L x 18″W x 33″H, 212 lbs
Assembly TimeUnder 45 minutesUnder 30 minutesUnder 30 minutes
FlywheelVirtually silentVirtually silentVirtually silent
MaterialsStainless steel seat track, durable thermoplastic polymer frameAluminum and steel frame with flat anthracite polymer bodyAluminum and steel frame with flat anthracite polymer body
Seat & Slide System2-roller and 2-idler system, ergonomic cushion10-roller system, ergonomic cushion10-roller system, ergonomic cushion
Foot Bed AdjustmentEasy adjustmentEasy adjustmentEasy adjustment
ResistancePatented electromagnetic drag mechanism: 50-300 with 104 mimicking on the waterPatented electromagnetic drag mechanism: 50-300 with 104 mimicking on the waterPatented electromagnetic drag mechanism: 50-300 with 104 mimicking on the water
SpeakersAmplifier x2 channel, 3W, 8 ohms front-facingAmplifier x2 channel, 3W, 8 ohms front-facing2x3W front-facing, 2x10W rear-facing
ConnectivityWiFi (10mbps recommended), Ethernet (optional), ANT+ and Bluetooth 5.0-enabled for heart-rate monitors and audioWiFi (10mbps recommended), Ethernet (optional), ANT+ and Bluetooth 5.0-enabled for heart-rate monitors and audioWiFi (10mbps recommended), Ethernet (optional), ANT+ and Bluetooth 5.0-enabled for heart-rate monitors and audio
MembershipPowered by the Hydrow All-Access MembershipPowered by the Hydrow All-Access MembershipPowered by the Hydrow All-Access Membership
Warranty1-year home use warranty and optional extended warranty1-year home use warranty and optional extended warranty1-year home use warranty and optional extended warranty
Trial30-day risk-free trial30-day risk-free trial30-day risk-free trial
DeliveryFree porch or optional professional in-home assemblyFree porch or optional professional in-home assemblyFree porch or optional professional in-home assembly
Est. Time to Delivery2 – 7 days2 – 3 weeksPre-order: Shipping in winter 2024-2025

Hydrow Pro Rower Review

I have the Hydrow Pro Rower and love it. This review will focus on this model.

Delivery & Setup

Delivery was smooth and professional. Most companies drop the box at your front door and leave. This was a much different experience. The delivery drivers called me and asked where I’d like the rower (upstairs, living room, etc).

So they were prepared to carry the box upstairs to any room in my house. Secondly, they didn’t just drop off the box. They unpacked everything and then put the rower together for me. I didn’t have to lift a finger.

Design

The Hydrow design is sleek and modern. If you have a modern aesthetic in your home or home gym, this will fit right in. The large screen is the perfect height to watch when rowing, and the flywheel is the smoothest I’ve ever used.

If you’ve used the popular Concept2 rower, the foot straps and measurements are the same.

Tech

Is A Hydrow Subscription Worth It

Hydrow’s tech features are top-notch. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate. You can join live classes or choose from a library of on-demand workouts. 

The machine syncs with your heart rate monitor and other fitness apps seamlessly. The live outdoor reality (LOR) feature is a game-changer, making you feel like you’re rowing in breathtaking locations worldwide.

I love the live leaderboard. For each workout, there’s a live leaderboard that updates in realtime your current rank against the best time. For the ultra-competitive, this is a blessing and a curse. It’ll push you to climb the rankings, but if you plan to have an easy recovery row, good luck.

Footprint, Durability, & Construction

Be prepared—the Hydrow takes up significant space, so you’ll need a dedicated area for it. It doesn’t come apart like other rowers for storage but you can store it upright.

The machine’s construction is rock-solid, with a steel and aluminum frame that ensures longevity. The front wheels make it easy to move around, and the seat glides smoothly. The biggest difference compared to other rowing machines is the seatbelt instead of chain for the handle.

The seatbelt requires no maintenance unlike a chain and is much quieter and smoother.

Feel

Is The Hydrow Worth It

The feel of rowing on the Hydrow is incredibly smooth. The electromagnetic resistance mimics the feeling of rowing on water quite well. 

It doesn’t jerk or lag, making for a consistently fluid motion. The ergonomic handle and seat add to the comfort, allowing you to focus solely on your workout.

Just listen to how quiet this is:

Maintenance

Maintenance is fairly simple. Just wipe down the frame and screen after each use to keep it clean. Occasionally check the screws and bolts to make sure everything stays tight, but overall it’s low-maintenance.

Price

Here’s the catch – Hydrow Pro isn’t cheap. The machine itself is priced around $2,195, and that doesn’t include the $38/month subscription fee for accessing the live and on-demand classes. 

It’s a significant investment, but it’s worth considering if you’re serious about rowing and want a high-quality machine. I know it’s a lot to think about, but the blend of high-tech features and excellent build quality offers substantial value.

The smaller Hydrow Wave is $1,695, making it a more affordable option, but it is still much more expensive than basic rowers without immersive displays. 

My Experience With The Hydrow

Once I hopped on, I first noticed the comfort of the seat and handlebar. The rowing action’s smooth glide felt almost like being on the water. 

The large screen on the Hydrow Original offers immersive visuals during workouts. The virtual waterways and various rowing sessions available kept my interest piqued.

The interactive classes with the realtime leaderboard had me unexpectedly pushing myself during the various workouts. Who doesn’t want to be number one?

Durability has also been a standout. After several months of regular use, I’m not seeing any wear or tear. 

The Hydrow feels as sturdy now as when I first assembled it. The build quality seems top-notch with no wobbles or odd noises, attesting to the premium materials used in its construction.

On the downside, the Hydrow does take up a good amount of space. The Hydrow Wave might be a better option for someone with limited room. 

Another point to consider is the subscription cost for the interactive classes. They do add value but it’s an additional monthly expense to think about.

Customer Hydrow Reviews

I’ve gone through numerous customer reviews to give you a well-rounded view of what people think about the Hydrow. Many users rave about the immersive experience, saying it feels like you’re out on the water. 

One reviewer mentioned how the live outdoor reality (LOR) feature made rows more engaging and pushed them to go further than they ever had before. Many also appreciate the sleek design, which fits nicely into their home gyms without taking up too much space.

On the contrary, some users have commented on the price, stating that both the initial cost and the ongoing subscription fees can be quite steep. 

One customer mentioned being hesitant at first but finding the investment worthwhile because it kept them motivated. Durability is another area where the Hydrow receives high praise. One reviewer said they’d been using it daily for over a year, and it still performs like new.

Hydrow Alternatives

Concept2 Model D

The Concept2 Model D is often touted as the gold standard in rowing machines. Many professional rowers use it for training. Unlike the Hydrow, it doesn’t have an immersive display or subscription for guided workouts. 

However, it excels in performance and durability. Its air resistance system provides a smooth rowing experience, and it features a PM5 Performance Monitor that tracks your pace, watts, stroke rate, and calories. 

It’s also more affordable than the Hydrow, making it a solid option for those on a budget.

WaterRower Natural

The WaterRower Natural offers a unique rowing experience. Its water resistance mechanism mimics the feel of rowing on actual water. 

It also has a visually appealing design with a solid ash wood frame that would look good in any home gym or living room. 

This machine is quieter and requires no electricity compared to the Hydrow. However, it lacks the interactive classes and on-demand workouts that make Hydrow stand out. To get a similar experience, you’ll need to use third-party apps.

NordicTrack RW900

The NordicTrack RW900 is another excellent alternative that comes closer to matching Hydrow’s tech-forward approach. It has a 22-inch HD touchscreen that immerses you in iFit’s broad library of interactive workouts. 

Like Hydrow, it requires a subscription for full access to its features. The RW900 offers adjustable resistance and a foldable design for easier storage. 

However, some users have noted that its build quality isn’t as robust as the Hydrow, which could affect its long-term durability.

Ergatta Rower

Ergatta is an intriguing option for those who prefer gaming elements in their workouts. Rather than instructor-led classes, Ergatta offers game-based routines that challenge you to hit specific metrics. 

This difference makes it stand out from Hydrow. It uses water resistance and features a handcrafted cherry wood frame. 

The downside? It might not have the same instructor-led community feel you get with Hydrow. However, Ergatta could be a perfect fit if you’re motivated by gamification.

Peloton Row

Recently, Peloton entered the rowing market with their Peloton Row. It integrates seamlessly with the Peloton ecosystem if you’re already a fan of their bikes or treadmills. 

It features a large HD touchscreen, live and on-demand classes, and leaderboards for competition. 

Just like the Hydrow, it requires a subscription to access all content. Early reviews suggest it’s a strong competitor, but it’s new enough that its long-term durability and community engagement are still being tested.

Frequently Asked Hydrow Questions

How do Hydrow Original and Hydrow Wave differ?

The Hydrow Original offers more advanced features, a larger size, and a higher price point than the Hydrow Wave. The Wave is a more compact, affordable option with fewer features, making it suitable for those with limited space or budgets.

Can you watch Netflix on Hydrow?

You cannot watch Netflix on Hydrow. But the immersive rowing workouts and amazing scenery is far better than Netflix.

What makes the Hydrow rowing experience unique?

Hydrow provides an immersive rowing experience with high-quality visuals and interactive classes. Its comfortable and smooth rowing motion, durable build, and sleek design create a premium workout experience at home.

Is Hydrow suitable for small spaces?

While the Hydrow Original may require more space, the Hydrow Wave is designed to fit smaller areas. It’s a more compact option, making it suitable for users with limited workout space.

Does Hydrow require a subscription?

Hydrow offers subscription-based content for interactive and engaging workouts. You’ll need one to fully use the rower.

Can you use Hydrow without a subscription?

You can use the Hydrow without a subscription but it is very limited. You can start the workouts but there is no instructor or video. You’ll just have a display with your splits and wattage but nothing else.

What are the benefits of Hydrow’s interactive classes?

Hydrow’s interactive classes offer real-time engagement, motivation, and variety. Led by experienced instructors, they provide users with a comprehensive and enjoyable workout experience.

Can beginners effectively use the Hydrow rower?

Yes, Hydrow offers a library of beginner-friendly workouts, making it easy for new users to start and progress. Combining strength, cardio, and recovery workouts suits all fitness levels.

Final Verdict

After diving deep into the Hydrow experience, I can confidently say it stands out for its sleek design and immersive rowing sessions. The setup was a breeze, and the interactive classes kept me motivated. While solid alternatives like the Concept2 Model D and the WaterRower Natural exist, Hydrow’s unique blend of visuals and community engagement really sets it apart.

Hydrow Rower

Hydrow Pro Rower

An immersive rowing experience with the smoothest glide and quietest strokes.

CHECK CURRENT DEALS
Hydrow Rower

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The links provided may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to purchase the recommended product. This support allows our research and editorial team to continue providing high-quality recommendations.

James de Lacey James is a professional strength & conditioning coach that works with professional and international level teams and athletes. He owns Sweet Science of Fighting, is a published scientific researcher and has completed his Masters in Sport & Exercise Science. He's combined my knowledge of research and experience to bring you the most practical bites to be applied to your combat training.