Top 10 Best Fitness Watch For Rowing in 2023

Finding the perfect fitness smartwatch for rowing can be a daunting task. You want a device that tracks your rowing metrics accurately and withstands the rigors of water and intense training sessions. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you to bring you the ultimate solution.

After sifting through numerous options, we have uncovered the “best fitness watch for rowing” designed specifically for rowing enthusiasts. This cutting-edge device offers unparalleled accuracy in tracking stroke rate, distance covered, and heart rate, and even provides real-time feedback to improve your rowing technique.

So, if you’re ready to take your rowing performance to the next level and achieve your fitness goals with precision, read more to discover the top fitness watch that will revolutionize your rowing experience. Your journey to becoming a rowing pro starts here.

Read also about Top 5 Best Garmin Watch for Crossfit in 2023.

Best Smart Watches for Rowing Being Manufactured

When choosing the Best fitness watch for rowing, it’s essential to consider factors such as GPS accuracy, heart rate monitoring precision, water resistance, battery life, and compatibility with rowing apps or specialized rowing features.

To ensure up-to-date information, it’s recommended to check recent reviews and product releases from reputable sources and manufacturers. As technology continues to advance, newer models may offer even more sophisticated features tailored to enhance the rowing experience.

Importance of Rowing Data

Rowing is an incredible sport that not only provides a full-body workout but also challenges both the body and mind. To improve as a rower and make the most out of each training session, understanding and analyzing rowing data play a crucial role.

Rowing data refers to the various metrics and measurements collected during your rowing workouts, which can include stroke rate, distance, pace, heart rate, and more. Let’s explore why rowing data is essential and how it can enhance your performance and progress.

Outdoor Rowing 

There are some types of outdoor rowing, which are explained below

1. Coastal Rowing: Coastal rowing takes place in open water, typically on larger and more stable boats. It allows rowers to explore coastlines and experience rowing in varied conditions.
2. Sculling: In sculling, rowers use two oars, one in each hand. This style is common in single, double, and quadruple sculls.
3. Sweep Rowing: In sweep rowing, rowers use a single oar with both hands. Sweep boats include pairs, fours, and eights.
4. Adaptive Rowing: Adaptive rowing is a specialized category for athletes with physical disabilities, enabling them to participate and compete in the sport.
5. Coastal Rowing: Coastal rowing takes place in open water, typically on larger and more stable boats. It allows rowers to explore coastlines and experience rowing in varied conditions.

Indoor Rowing

Indoor rowing is done on ergometers or rowing machines. It is an effective way to train and improve rowing techniques without being on the water.

The Best Fitness Watch For Rowing not only tracks essential metrics but also offers advanced features that enhance your rowing experience.

10 Best Fitness Watches Suitable for Rowing

See our top smartwatches for rowing detailed review one by one.

1. Apple Watch Series 8 ( The Best Fitness Watch For Rowing)

Introducing the latest pinnacle of wearable technology designed to elevate your rowing experience – the Apple Watch Series 8, undisputedly the “Best Fitness Watch for Rowing.”

With its cutting-edge features and impeccable design, this smartwatch sets a new standard for rowers seeking precision, performance, and style. Offering two sizes, 41 x 35 x 10.7 mm and 45 x 38 x 10.7 mm, the Apple Watch Series 8 ensures a perfect fit for your wrist, ensuring comfort and functionality go hand in hand.

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7 Best Features for Rowing

1. Sleek and Lightweight Design

Rowing demands a watch that doesn’t hinder your movement, and the Apple Watch Series 8 delivers exactly that. Remarkably lightweight, the 41mm version weighs a mere 42.3g, while the 45mm version comes in at just 51.5g.

This feather-light construction ensures you won’t feel weighed down during your rowing sessions, allowing you to focus entirely on your performance and immerse yourself in the exhilarating sport of rowing.

2. Advanced Fitness Tracking

The Apple Watch Series 8 comes equipped with advanced fitness tracking capabilities that cater specifically to rowing enthusiasts. Built-in GPS technology accurately tracks your rowing routes, providing valuable insights into your distance covered, speed, and strokes per minute.

3.  Water-Resistant and Swimproof

Designed to withstand the elements, the Apple Watch Series 8 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it the ideal companion for rowers who embrace the water environment.

Whether you’re rowing in the pool or venturing into open waters, this swim-proof watch allows you to monitor your performance without worry, ensuring it stays protected during all your aquatic adventures.

4. Innovative Health Features

Beyond rowing metrics, the Apple Watch Series 8 offers an array of health-focused features that promote overall well-being. The watch features a Blood Oxygen app that measures your blood oxygen levels, providing insights into your body’s overall fitness and recovery.

5. Seamless Connectivity

Stay connected during your rowing sessions with the Apple Watch Series 8’s seamless connectivity features. Receive important calls, texts, and app notifications directly on your wrist, ensuring you stay informed and in touch while you conquer the waters.

The watch also supports music storage, allowing you to listen to your favorite tunes wirelessly using Bluetooth headphones, enhancing your rowing experience with the perfect rhythm.

6. Customizable Watch Faces and Apps

Personalize your Apple Watch Series 8 with a wide range of customizable watch faces and apps. Choose the ones that suit your preferences and complement your rowing journey.

Whether you prefer a minimalist design or want detailed fitness metrics at your fingertips, the watch’s versatile customization options ensure a truly personalized experience.

7. Long-Lasting Battery Life

The Apple Watch Series 8 ensures that you stay powered up throughout your rowing adventures with its long-lasting battery life. This reliable power source keeps you connected, tracking your performance, and providing valuable data for extended periods, making it the perfect companion for your rowing sessions and outdoor escapades.

Pros

• Depth of smartwatch features and downloadable apps
• Ease of answering calls and texts without a phone connection
• Advanced health monitoring
• Large, clear display

Cons

• Poor battery life
• Poor GPS accuracy
• Lack of detailed sports data and customizable fields
• Heavy

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2. Apple Watch Series 4

The search ends with the Apple Watch Series 4, unequivocally the “Best Fitness Watch for Rowing.” Engineered to deliver exceptional performance, this smartwatch boasts a sleek Space Black Stainless Steel Case that not only looks stunning but also ensures durability and reliability during your intense rowing sessions.

With its Black Sport Band, the watch provides a comfortable and secure fit, allowing you to focus solely on your rowing performance without any distractions.

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7 Best Features for Rowing

1. Accurate GPS and Cellular Tracking

The Apple Watch Series 4 comes equipped with GPS and Cellular capabilities, providing accurate tracking of your rowing routes and distance covered, even when you’re away from your phone.

This essential feature ensures you have access to precise data, allowing you to analyze your rowing performance and make informed decisions to improve your technique.

2. Stay Connected on the Go

As you conquer the waters, the Apple Watch Series 4 keeps you connected with important notifications, ensuring you don’t miss a beat. Stay informed and in touch while rowing, ensuring you’re aware of any calls, messages, or app alerts that may require your attention.

3. Clear and Convenient Display

With its large 44mm display, the Apple Watch Series 4 provides clear and easy-to-read metrics, such as heart rate, time, and distance. This convenient feature enables you to monitor your progress in real-time during your rowing sessions, ensuring you stay on track and motivated to achieve your fitness goals.

4. Advanced Fitness Tracking and Optimization

Beyond its stunning design and tracking capabilities, the Apple Watch Series 4 offers an array of fitness apps and sensors to comprehensively track your activity levels and optimize your workouts. Monitor your heart rate, calories burned, and various other metrics to make the most of your rowing sessions and achieve peak performance.

5. Advanced Health Features

The Apple Watch Series 4 goes beyond being a fitness tracker, offering advanced health features to support your overall well-being.

Its heart rate monitoring feature provides valuable insights into your cardiovascular health during rowing sessions. Additionally, the ECG app allows you to take an electrocardiogram anytime, empowering you with greater knowledge of your heart’s condition.

6. Durable and Reliable Design

Designed to withstand the rigors of rowing and outdoor activities, the Apple Watch Series 4’s Space Black Stainless Steel Case ensures durability and longevity.

This rugged design ensures the watch remains your steadfast companion, supporting you through countless rowing adventures.

7. Optimal Health and Performance

By integrating advanced health features, the Apple Watch Series 4 helps you stay on top of your health and ensures you’re rowing at your best and safest performance level. It becomes not just a fitness watch but a vital tool to support your overall well-being.

Pros

• Smart stuff features
• It is  bigger, brighter, and faster
• Smart stuff features
• The sleep and activity trackers are wonderful,
• Built-in heart/ECG feature
• Very intuitive and really quite easy

cons

• Battery life is really short

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3. Garmin Vivoactive 3

In the world of fitness and sports, having the best fitness watch is essential to track and enhance performance. When it comes to rowing, precision, and accuracy are paramount to achieving optimal results.

Among the top contenders in the market, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 has garnered significant attention and acclaim for its exceptional capabilities tailored to the needs of rowing enthusiasts. This versatile smartwatch has gained popularity on Amazon and beyond, making it a go-to choice for athletes seeking a comprehensive tool to elevate their rowing experience.

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6 Best Features for Rowing

1. Advanced Rowing Metrics

The Garmin Vivoactive 3 is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including GPS and a built-in heart rate monitor, to provide accurate and detailed rowing metrics. Users can access data on stroke rate, stroke distance, total distance covered, and calories burned during their rowing sessions, allowing for comprehensive analysis and improvement in performance.

2. Durable and Stylish Design

Crafted with precision, the Vivoactive 3 features a robust stainless steel case and Corning Gorilla Glass, ensuring it withstands the wear and tear of daily activities, including rigorous rowing workouts. Its sleek and lightweight design makes it suitable for both athletic endeavors and everyday wear.

3. Water Resistance

As rowing often involves exposure to water and potential splashes, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 comes with a water resistance rating of up to 50 meters. This feature allows rowers to confidently track their progress even during intense water-based activities.

4. Multisport Functionality

Beyond its rowing capabilities, the Vivoactive 3 offers versatile multisport functionality. Whether you’re running, cycling, swimming, or engaging in various gym workouts, this fitness watch adapts effortlessly to provide precise data for each activity.

5. Smart Notifications

Stay connected while training with smart notifications on the Garmin Vivoactive 3. Receive calls, messages, emails, and social media alerts directly on your wrist, ensuring you remain informed and reachable without interrupting your workout.

6. Connect IQ Compatibility

Garmin’s Connect IQ platform enhances the Vivoactive 3’s functionality, allowing users to personalize their smartwatch. Download apps, widgets, watch faces, and data fields to tailor the device to your specific preferences and fitness goals.

Pros

• Suitable for indoor and outdoor rowing.
• Supports Garmin rowing app.
• Great build quality.
• High-resolution touchscreen display.
• Compatible with iOS and Android.
• Supports GPS navigating systems.
• Accelerometer and compass included.
• Waterproof up to 50 meters.
• Affordable.

Cons

• Doesn’t carry the most accurate heart rate monitor.
• Relatively low battery life.

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4. Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire

When it comes to optimizing performance in rowing and embracing the spirit of adventure, the Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire stands out as the quintessential fitness watch. With its exceptional features and rugged design, it has earned its reputation as the “Best Fitness Watch for Rowing.”

Tailored to meet the needs of rowing enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike, this multisport GPS watch is a powerful tool that enhances training sessions and navigates through challenging terrains with ease.

At the heart of the Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire lies a comprehensive set of features that make it the ultimate companion for rowing and other outdoor activities. Equipped with full-color Topo U.S. mapping and routable cycling maps, this watch offers unparalleled outdoor navigation capabilities, ensuring that you stay on track and never lose your way during rowing adventures.

4 Best Features for Rowing

1. Ruggedness and Durability

The Fenix 5X Sapphire embraces the spirit of adventure with its rugged design, featuring a stainless steel bezel, buttons, and rear case.

The physical dimensions of 5.1 x 5.1 x 1.8 centimeters and a weight of 98 grams with the silicone band and 196 grams with the metal band ensure comfort and durability throughout your rowing endeavors.

2. Advanced Navigation Sensors

The built-in navigation sensors of the Fenix 5X Sapphire are truly exceptional, providing rowers with a sense of security even in the most challenging environments.

The combination of GPS and Glonass capability offers precise tracking, surpassing the limitations of GPS alone. Additionally, the watch comes equipped with a 3-axis compass, gyroscope, and barometric altimeter, enhancing navigation accuracy and providing crucial information about your surroundings while rowing.

3. Performance Monitoring and Run Profiles

The Fenix 5X Sapphire caters to the needs of runners, trail runners, and those who prefer treadmill running with its preloaded run profiles. These profiles provide comprehensive data that helps optimize your rowing training sessions.

The performance widget further enhances the experience by presenting key statistics, including training status and training load, right at your fingertips.

4. Connected Features

Stay connected and motivated during your rowing sessions with the Fenix 5X Sapphire’s smart notifications. Receive calls, texts, and other app alerts directly on your wrist, ensuring you never miss a beat.

The watch also supports automatic uploads to Garmin Connect, an online fitness community where you can track your progress and share your achievements with others.

Moreover, you can personalize your watch with free watch faces and apps from the Connect IQ store, allowing you to tailor your Fenix 5X Sapphire to suit your unique style and preferences.

Pros

• Suitable for indoor and outdoor rowing.
• Supports Garmin rowing app.
• Great build quality.
• High-resolution display.
• Accurate heartbeat tracker.
• Compatible with iOS and Android.
• Supports GPS and GLONASS navigating systems.
• Waterproof up to 100 meters.
• TOPO maps included.
• Good battery life.

Cons

• Expensive.
• No touchscreen.
• A bit heavy.

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5. Corox Apex 2Pro

When it comes to finding the “best fitness watch for rowing” that caters to the unique demands of rowing, the COROS APEX 2 Pro stands as a top-tier choice.

Engineered with precision and designed to elevate performance, this outdoor GPS watch is the epitome of reliability, durability, and functionality, making it the go-to device for rowers seeking to optimize their training and track their progress with ease.

5 Best Features for Rowing

1. Sapphire Titanium display

The COROS APEX 2 Pro boasts an impressive array of features that set it apart as the ultimate fitness companion for rowers. With a 1.3″ Sapphire Titanium display, the watch exudes a sleek yet rugged design that can withstand the harshest of rowing environments.

Its 30-day battery life ensures uninterrupted tracking, allowing you to focus on your rowing sessions without worrying about charging your device frequently.

2. Dual-Freq GPS and On-Wrist Navigation

Equipped with Dual-Frequency GPS, the APEX 2 Pro offers unparalleled accuracy, ensuring precise tracking of your rowing routes, distance, and speed.

The on-wrist navigation feature enables you to explore new waters confidently, as the watch guides you with real-time data and offline maps, leaving no room for uncertainty during your rowing adventures.

3. Comprehensive Activity Tracking:

Beyond rowing, the COROS APEX 2 Pro excels in tracking various other activities, making it the perfect companion for multi-sport athletes. Whether you’re running, biking, climbing, or tracking your sleep patterns, this watch captures all the essential data you need to stay on top of your fitness goals.

4. Heart Rate Monitoring:

Understanding the importance of heart rate monitoring for rowers, the APEX 2 Pro integrates a built-in heart rate monitor. This feature allows you to optimize your rowing performance, ensuring you stay within the optimal heart rate zone to maximize your training efficiency.

5. Rugged Design and Reliability:

The watch’s Sapphire Titanium construction exudes durability, making it resistant to scratches and wear. Its rugged design ensures that it can handle the rigors of intense rowing sessions and outdoor activities, promising reliability in any challenging environment.

Pros

In the realm of rowing and fitness, the search for the perfect companion ends with the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro. Proudly touted as the “Best Fitness Watch for Rowing,” this premium multisport GPS watch has captured the hearts of rowing enthusiasts and athletes alike.

With its unparalleled features and cutting-edge technology, the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro redefines the fitness watch experience, offering a comprehensive toolset that is both reliable and versatile for rowers seeking to optimize their training and achieve new heights in performance.

8 Best Features for Rowing

1. Mapping and On-Wrist Navigation

The Garmin Fenix 6 Pro takes rowing to the next level with its advanced mapping and on-wrist navigation capabilities. Equipped with detailed mapping features, this watch enables rowers to explore new waters with confidence.

The on-wrist navigation guides you in real-time, ensuring you stay on track and never lose your way during rowing adventures.

2. Premium Multisport Functionality

Beyond rowing, the Fenix 6 Pro caters to a wide range of sports and activities, making it the ultimate fitness companion for athletes. Whether you’re running, cycling, swimming, or participating in any other sport, this watch adapts seamlessly, providing accurate data for each activity and helping you diversify your training.

3. Music Storage and Playback

Rowing sessions are made even more enjoyable with the Fenix 6 Pro’s music storage and playback feature. You can store your favorite tunes directly on the watch and listen to them wirelessly using Bluetooth headphones, providing the perfect rhythm and motivation to keep you in sync with your strokes.

4. Grade-Adjusted Pace Guidance

Elevate your rowing performance with the Fenix 6 Pro’s innovative Grade-Adjusted Pace Guidance. This feature considers the incline and decline of the terrain to provide you with personalized pace recommendations, ensuring optimal effort during uphill and downhill sections of your rowing routes.

5. Pulse Ox Sensors

The Fenix 6 Pro integrates Pulse Ox sensors that measure blood oxygen saturation levels. This feature is essential for rowers, as it provides insights into your body’s adaptation to various altitudes and environmental conditions, ensuring you stay safe and perform at your best during challenging rowing adventures.

6. Advanced Sleep Monitoring

Rest and recovery are paramount in rowing, and the Fenix 6 Pro helps you optimize your sleep patterns for better performance. Its advanced sleep monitoring feature tracks your sleep quality, allowing you to make adjustments for improved rest and enhanced recovery.

7. Built-in GPS and Performance Metrics

The Fenix 6 Pro features built-in GPS technology that accurately tracks your rowing routes and performance metrics, including distance, pace, stroke rate, and more.

These detailed data insights provide you with a comprehensive view of your rowing sessions, helping you analyze your progress and set new goals.

8. Rugged Design and Durability

The Fenix 6 Pro boasts a rugged design built to withstand the toughest of rowing environments.

Its robust construction, combined with a scratch-resistant display, ensures durability and longevity, making it the ideal companion for all your rowing adventures.

Look no further than the Garmin Forerunner 745 – the undisputed “Best Fitness Watch for Rowing.”Combining cutting-edge GPS technology, detailed training stats, and essential smartwatch functions, this GPS running watch is a powerful tool that has earned the admiration of rowers and athletes alike.

With its comprehensive training features and seamless integration of essential smartwatch functions, the Garmin Forerunner 745 is the ultimate companion for rowers seeking to elevate their training and excel on the water.

8 Best Features for Rowing

1. Advanced GPS Technology

The Garmin Forerunner 745 harnesses the power of advanced GPS technology, ensuring precise tracking of your rowing routes and performance metrics. This invaluable feature allows you to analyze your rowing sessions with accuracy and gain valuable insights into your progress.

2. Detailed Training Stats

As the best fitness watch for rowing, the Forerunner 745 delivers comprehensive training statistics that go above and beyond basic tracking. It offers detailed data on distance, pace, stroke rate, heart rate, and more, allowing you to fine-tune your rowing technique and optimize your training regimen.

3. On-Device Workouts

The Forerunner 745 takes personalized training to the next level with its on-device workout feature. Tailor your rowing sessions with custom workouts directly on the watch, providing real-time guidance and motivation to achieve your performance goals.

4. Essential Smartwatch Functions

Beyond its exceptional fitness capabilities, the Forerunner 745 seamlessly integrates essential smartwatch functions. Stay connected on the go with smart notifications, keeping you informed of calls, texts, and app alerts without interrupting your rowing sessions.

5. Built-In Heart Rate Monitor

Understanding the importance of heart rate monitoring in rowing, the Forerunner 745 comes equipped with a built-in heart rate monitor. This feature enables you to stay within your target heart rate zone, optimizing your rowing performance and enhancing the efficiency of your workouts.

6. All-Day Activity Tracking

The Forerunner 745 continuously tracks your daily activities, providing you with insights into steps taken, calories burned, and more. This feature encourages an active lifestyle beyond rowing sessions, promoting overall well-being and fitness.

7. Advanced Sleep Monitoring

Rest and recovery are essential for peak performance in rowing, and the Forerunner 745 ensures you make the most of your downtime. Its advanced sleep monitoring feature tracks your sleep patterns, helping you optimize your rest for enhanced recovery and improved performance on the water.

8. Sleek Design and Durability

The Forerunner 745 boasts a sleek and lightweight design that comfortably accompanies you during your rowing sessions. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of intense workouts and challenging rowing environments.

Pros

When it comes to conquering the waters and achieving the best performance in rowing, the search for the ultimate fitness watch ends with the Garmin Fenix 5. Regarded as the “Best Fitness Watch for Rowing,” this premium and rugged multisport GPS smartwatch has become a go-to choice for rowers seeking durability, precision, and versatility.

With its robust design and cutting-edge features, the Garmin Fenix 5 is the perfect companion for rowing enthusiasts, athletes, and outdoor adventurers alike.

8 Best Features for Rowing

1. Premium Multisport Functionality

The Garmin Fenix 5 is more than just a fitness watch; it’s a comprehensive multisport GPS smartwatch. With dedicated rowing modes, this watch caters specifically to rowers, delivering precise tracking of your rowing routes, distance, and performance metrics to keep you at the top of your game.

2. Rugged Design for Demanding Environments

Crafted with a premium and durable slate gray case and a black band, the Fenix 5 is built to withstand the harshest conditions. Its rugged design ensures it can handle the rigors of intense rowing sessions and outdoor adventures without compromising its performance.

3. Advanced GPS and GLONASS

The Fenix 5 boasts advanced GPS and GLONASS satellite reception, providing unparalleled accuracy in tracking your rowing routes and positioning. This feature is crucial for gaining precise insights into your performance and progress on the water.

4. Comprehensive Activity Tracking

Beyond rowing, the Fenix 5 continuously monitors a wide range of activities, including running, cycling, swimming, and more. Its comprehensive activity tracking allows you to seamlessly transition between sports and keep a complete record of your training endeavors.

5. Advanced Performance Metrics

As the best fitness watch for rowing, the Fenix 5 goes above and beyond basic tracking. It offers advanced performance metrics, including VO2 max estimation, recovery advisor, and training status, helping you fine-tune your rowing technique and optimize your training routine.

6. Elevate Wrist Heart Rate Technology

The Fenix 5 is equipped with Elevate wrist heart rate technology, eliminating the need for a chest strap. This innovative feature allows you to monitor your heart rate directly from your wrist, ensuring you stay within your target heart rate zone during rowing sessions.

7. Smart Notifications and Connect IQ

Stay connected on the go with smart notifications, receiving calls, texts, and other app alerts directly on your wrist. The Connect IQ platform further enhances the watch’s functionality, allowing you to personalize your Fenix 5 with a variety of apps, widgets, and watch faces.

8. Water Resistance and Swim Features

With a water resistance rating of up to 100 meters, the Fenix 5 is the ideal watch for rowers who embrace the water environment. Its swim features include stroke count, swim efficiency, and even the ability to distinguish between open water and pool swimming.

Pros