Updated 1 Nov 2026
Is the WaterRower Original worth it?
Yes — if you want a rower you're happy to leave out.
A paddle spins in a tank of water, so the pull gets heavier the harder you row, with a soft swish instead of a fan's roar. The frame is solid hardwood in several finishes, it arrives almost ready to use, rolls on front wheels and stands upright to store. The S4 monitor shows only the basics. You can't set a resistance level, the tank needs a purifying tablet every six months, and the foot straps can loosen on hard rows. The wood finishes (Natural, Oak, Club and so on) row the same.
Good to know
- Resistance only rises with effort; changing the water level, with the supplied siphon pump, is the only other way.
- The S4 monitor is basic: numbers and simple workouts, no touchscreen or speakers.
- The foot straps can come loose on hard rows.
- The handle is 15 inches (38 cm), short if you like a wide grip.
- It doesn't fold; it stands upright instead.
- Water resistance with a calm swish
- Solid hardwood, stores upright
- Quieter than an air rower
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Get it if…
- It will live in a living room or bedroom.
- You want a quieter rower than a fan machine.
- You like a simple machine with no subscription.
Skip it if…
- You want set resistance levels.
- You want classes or games on a screen.
- You need a higher seat for stiff knees or hips.
More on the WaterRower
How we reached this verdict
T3 rates it one of the best home rowers, praising the build, the soothing water sound and how easily it rolls away, with loose foot straps its only real fault. Healthline's reviewer, after five years with one, still rates it an elegant, simple rower that needs no power or app, with no touchscreen as the main trade-off. Fit&Well found it beautiful and built to last, with a simple monitor.
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: T3, Healthline, Fit&Well, WaterRower (specs), Breaking Muscle, Live Science, T3, Expert Reviews, manufacturer specifications.
Updated 1 Nov 2026How we decide