Hydrow Wave: Comprehensive Review and Comparison (2024)
At Hydrow Wave, we receive free products and commissions through our links. Please refer to our disclosures page for more information. With years of experience in personal training and coaching, I've had the opportunity to utilize various rowers, including the Hydrow Wave. In this review, we'll explore the top features of the Hydrow Wave, compare it to other leading rowing machines like the Concept2, and provide critical takeaways for potential buyers.
Key Takeaways:
The Hydrow Wave offers a full-body training experience, closely simulating rowing on water.
With electromagnetic resistance, it provides smooth mechanics and is quieter than air resistance rowers like the Concept2.
Compact design and portability make it suitable for home workouts.
Technological features include a 16-inch HD touchscreen and access to various instructor-led workouts.
Hydrow Wave Overview:
The Hydrow Wave is designed to provide an upgraded rowing experience, combining electromagnetic resistance for a smooth, low-impact workout. Its compact design, measuring 80" x 19" x 43", is ideal for individuals with limited workout space. The rower offers access to a library of over 4,000 instructor-led workouts through a subscription plan, enhancing the overall fitness experience.
Hydrow Wave Pros:
Compact design with dimensions 80" x 19" x 43".
High weight capacity of 375 pounds.
Easy storage with the ability to collapse and tilt vertically, anchoring it to the wall for safety.
It is a quiet operation compared to air resistance rowers like the Concept2.
16-inch HD touchscreen for interactive workouts.
Portability for at-home workouts.
Hydrow Wave Cons:
A starting price of around $1,695 may be steep for some.
A subscription plan for full workout access costs approximately $44 per month.
The warranty is free for the first year, with additional costs for extended coverage.
Hydrow Wave Rating:
Price: 3.5
Materials, Build, and Construction Quality: 4.5
Delivery and Assembly: 4
Subscription Options: 4.5
Included Workouts: 3
Ergonomics: 4
Bluetooth Connectivity: 4
Heart Rate Monitoring: 4
Display and Stat Tracking: 4.5
Hydrow Wave vs. Concept2:
Hydrow Wave uses electromagnetic resistance, while Concept2 relies on air resistance.
The price difference is attributed to technological features, with Concept2 priced under $1,000.
Concept2 has a five-year warranty for the frame, while Hydrow Wave offers a one-year warranty.
Hydrow Wave vs. Peloton:
Similarities in high-definition touch screens and subscription-based workouts.
Hydrow Wave has a weight capacity of 375 pounds, while Peloton's capacity is 300 pounds.
There is a price difference, with Hydrow Wave priced at around $1,695 and Peloton just under $3,000.
Hydrow Wave vs. Aviron:
Aviron is a dual air and electromagnetic resistance rower with a 22-inch HD touchscreen.
Aviron offers fewer workouts (500) than Hydrow Wave's 4,000 workouts.
Aviron is priced around $2,199, approximately $500 more than the Hydrow Wave.
Customer Reviews:
Amazon: 4.3 out of 5 stars, praised for smooth operation but noted as expensive.
Trustpilot: 4.7 out of 5 stars, with some concerns about customer service.
Hydrow's website: Positive reviews for size, portability, and easy assembly.
Final Verdict:
After testing the Hydrow Wave, I found it is a genuine alternative to the Concept2 rower, offering a unique and immersive rowing experience. While the price may be a consideration, the exceptional build quality, smooth mechanics, and financing options make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a quiet, space-efficient, and technologically advanced rowing machine. The Hydrow Wave is particularly suitable for individuals with compact workout spaces and budgets that accommodate its price.
