WaterRower Rowing Machine with S4 BLE Monitor | USA Made Water Rower | Original Handcrafted Erg Row Machine for Home Use & Gym
WaterRower · 1 more pick →
Best for
Best overall
Amazon rating
Amazon aggregate, one input among many in the Verdict Score
Based on 1 trusted source
Current price
$1,298.00
Updated Jun 27, 2026 · 1 min read
Sources behind this verdict
10 reviewers weighted by source trust
The consensus
What reviewers found
Synthesized across the trust-weighted source mix below.
Across the reviewers we read, the original handcrafted WaterRower with the S4 monitor is the reference point the rest of the category is measured against. garagegymreviews.com rates it highly, describing it as a solidly built machine that uses water instead of air to closely simulate real on-water resistance, and notes it isn't budget-friendly at around $1,100-plus. The r/waterrower and r/Rowing communities echo that verdict, with owners reporting figures like four million-plus meters with no leaks and praising the smooth catch, consistent resistance, and the soothing sound of the water.
What reviewers liked
- garagegymreviews.com and rowing communities converge on excellent build quality and long-term durability
- Smooth, consistent water resistance and a soothing water sound praised by owners
- Replaceable parts and vertical storage noted by multiple sources
- Largest verified-review base among the genuine WaterRower variants
Where it falls short
- Among the most expensive options in the category at roughly $1,300
- Reviewers describe the S4 monitor as functional but basic, not a touchscreen
- Some owners note a poor monitor viewing angle
- A filled tank makes it heavy to move despite vertical storage
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Across the reviewers we read, the original handcrafted WaterRower with the S4 monitor is the reference point the rest of the category is measured against. garagegymreviews.com rates it highly, describing it as a solidly built machine that uses water instead of air to closely simulate real on-water resistance, and notes it isn't budget-friendly at around $1,100-plus. The r/waterrower and r/Rowing communities echo that verdict, with owners reporting figures like four million-plus meters with no leaks and praising the smooth catch, consistent resistance, and the soothing sound of the water.
The recurring theme across both expert and community sources is longevity and serviceability: reviewers describe the durability as "legendary," note that parts are replaceable, and highlight that it can be stored vertically in low-ceiling spaces. The 4.5-star Amazon average over 181 reviews lines up with that enthusiasm rather than contradicting it.
The honest caveats are price and the monitor. The S4 is widely considered capable but basic next to a big touchscreen, and some owners mention a poor viewing angle. For shoppers who want the genuine article and plan to keep it for years, the consensus is that this is the safest buy in the water category.
- The Original Rower Machine - Handcrafted and Built to Last: Designed in the mid '80s by Yale and US National Team Rower John Duke. WaterRower continues to combine stylish design, handcrafted workmanship, our unique WaterFlywheel resistance and ethically sourced materials create the world's finest rowing simulator
- Made in the USA - Hand-built in Rhode Island; all timber used in the manufacture of wooden WaterRower rowing machines is sourced from sustainably managed hardwood forests in the Appalachian Mountains. The OAK Rower is Made of Oak Wood with a Natural Color Finish
- The WaterRower Oak now comes standard with our S4 BLE monitor, providing a robust assortment of in-workout performance data and advanced training features. Enjoy a quick-start workout session or delve into our assortment of time, distance and advanced zone training workouts to reach your training goals. The S4 BLE also provides a built-in Bluetooth feature, allowing for seamless connection to our portfolio of popular indoor rowing apps, such as WATERROWER CONNECT and CITYROW.
- Smooth - Water rowers use a water-filled flywheel to provide resistance as you row. The resistance is created by the paddle-like blades of the flywheel moving through the water, creating a smooth and natural resistance that closely resembles the feeling of rowing on water. Like water, the harder you fight, the more resistance you get
- Burn calories in short time - There are many benefits to rowing. It is a low impact cardiovascular exercise that puts less stress on your joints. Full body workout that includes your legs, core, back and arms. Perfect for all fitness levels. This water rowing machine targets all major muscle groups (84 percent of total muscle mass) Dimensions - 82" L x 20" H x 22" W / weight: 103.5 lbs (with water). Easily store it on end
I'm absolutely happy with the waterrower. The catch feels smoother, the resistance seems more consistent, and the sound of the water is far ...
It does drown out the swish of the water a bit, The viewing angle is quite poor. I am very happy with my purchase. It was a great. I have no ...
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“WaterRower Rowing Machine Review: Treading Water!” · YouTube
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