6 Best Watches for Rowing Enthusiasts

Rowing is a sport that necessitates dexterity, stamina, and a strong bond with the water. Having the right equipment can make all the difference, whether you’re a competitive rower or just like to paddle leisurely on the lake. 

An essential but frequently disregarded rowing accessory is a dependable watch. A good rowing watch not only keeps the time but also offers important information about how you perform on the water.

 The six best watches for rowing will be covered in this article; we’ll start with the Lorus R2301NX9 and move on to other top picks that satisfy different needs and preferences.

Top 6  Watches for Rowing Enthusiasts

1. R2301NX9 Lorus

Let’s start our voyage with a timepiece from Lorus Watches that combines style and utility. The R2301NX9 is another inexpensive watch made by Lorus, a Seiko subsidiary, that lives up to its reputation.

This watch, which was created with fans of water sports in mind, has a 100-meter water resistant certification, making it perfect for rowers who occasionally find themselves in damp settings. Having a watch that can be read in low light is essential whether you are rowing in the morning or at night. The dial of the R2301NX9 has a stunning blue colour and has luminous hands and markers. You can concentrate on perfecting your rowing technique without having to worry about your watch’s accuracy thanks to its robust quartz movement.

Pros:

• You can trust it around water, as it’s water-resistant up to 100 meters.
• It’s got a handy chronograph feature for accurate split time tracking.
• Built tough with stainless steel, so it’s quite durable.
• Its classic analog display is easy to read at a glance.
• You can wear it anywhere, from the water to your everyday activities.

Cons:

• If you’re after GPS or heart rate monitoring, this watch won’t have you covered.
• Customization options are a bit limited compared to some other watches.

2. Forerunner 945 by Garmin

The Garmin Forerunner 945 is the watch for you if tracking your rowing performance is something you take seriously. This watch is just another example of how excellent Garmin’s sports and fitness tracking gadgets are known to be.

Heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, and even pulse oximetry, which gauges your blood oxygen levels, are all included in the Forerunner 945’s extensive data collection capabilities. These tools give you insightful information about your rowing workouts, enabling you to improve your practice and keep tabs on your general health.

Pros:

• With its accurate GPS, you’ll never lose your way while rowing.
• It’s like a personal health coach, offering comprehensive health stats and performance insights.
• You can groove to your favorite tunes with music storage and streaming.
• No need to change watches for different sports, thanks to its versatile multisport mode.
• Even with GPS and music, it manages to keep going with impressive battery life.

Cons:

• You might need to dig deeper into your pockets; it’s not the most budget-friendly choice.
• For those who prefer simplicity, its extensive features might feel overwhelming.

3. Suunto 9 Baro

The Suunto 9 Baro is a good pick for rowers who seek dependability and durability from their watches, and Suunto is another company well renowned for making durable sports timepieces. It is the perfect companion for rowing on choppy waters because this watch is made to survive extreme circumstances.

Rowers negotiating height variations or shifting water levels will find the Suunto 9 Baro’s barometric altimeter to be very helpful. It can handle even the longest rowing adventures without needing to be recharged because of its 120-hour battery life in GPS mode.

Pros:

• Battery life is a champ, even lasting up to 120 hours with GPS on.
• It’s like having your own weather station with altitude, weather, and temperature sensors.
• You can personalize your experience with customizable sports modes, including one tailored for rowing.
• Built tough, it can handle some rough outdoor adventures.
• Staying connected on the go is a breeze with smartphone notifications.

Cons:

• On smaller wrists, it might feel a bit bulky.
• Given its extensive features, there’s a learning curve for newcomers.

4.  Apple Watch Series 7

The Apple Watch Series 7 has evolved into a useful companion for athletes of all stripes, even though it may not have been created expressly for rowing. For rowers who also want a smartwatch for everyday usage, it’s a great option because of its variety of health and fitness functions.

The Series 7 provides a full range of health monitoring technologies, such as blood oxygen measurement, ECG capability, and heart rate tracking. Additionally, because it is swim-proof, it is appropriate for rowers who frequently find themselves in the water. You may trace your rowing routes and elevation changes with the watch’s GPS and altimeter, which will give you useful information for your workouts.

Pros:

• It’s stylish and sleek, suitable for both water and land adventures.
• GPS and cellular connectivity ensure you’re always on track and connected.
• It’s not just a watch; it’s a health and fitness powerhouse with a variety of tracking features.
• Dive into a world of apps with access to a wide app ecosystem.
• You can take it for a swim or a row, as it’s water-resistant.

Cons:

• Battery life isn’t its strong suit, especially with GPS active.
• Premium features come with a premium price.
• It’s best buddies with iPhones, so Android users might not get the full experience.

5. Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW9400-1

The Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW9400-1 is a tough and dependable option for rowers who require a watch that can survive harsh conditions. This model stands up to the reputation of ruggedness that G-Shock watches have earned.

The Rangeman GW9400-1 is a great alternative for rowers who frequently row in difficult settings because it is shock-resistant, mud-resistant, and water-resistant up to 200 metres. Even during lengthy rowing journeys, its solar-powered battery assures that it won’t run out of electricity.

Pros:

• Solar charging is a game-changer, extending your adventures by recharging in sunlight.
• It’s built to endure the great outdoors with its rugged design.
• Navigation enthusiasts will appreciate its advanced mapping and tracking capabilities.
• Your health and fitness metrics are covered with its comprehensive tracking.
• Whether you’re rowing or into various sports, it’s got a mode for you.

Cons:

• The upfront cost can be quite steep.
• Those with smaller wrists might find its size less comfortable.

6. Ironman Timex Classic 30

The Timex Ironman Classic 30 is our choice for the top rowing watches. The Ironman Classic 30 is another of Timex’s many dependable and reasonably priced sports watches.

This watch is perfect for rowers who don’t go into deeper waters because it is water-resistant up to 100 meters. It is perfect for early morning or late night rowing sessions because to its straightforward, simple-to-read display and Indiglo lighting. The countdown timer can help you pace yourself during interval training, and the 30-lap memory enables you to monitor your progress across several rowing sessions.

Pros:

• It’s a budget-friendly option, offering functionality without breaking the bank.
• Comfortable and lightweight, it’s ideal for extended wear, even during rowing sessions.
• Navigating through features is a breeze with its touchscreen display.
• Battery life is solid, making it suitable for long rowing sessions.
• You won’t have to worry about water; it’s water-resistant.

Cons:

• Don’t expect the bells and whistles of a full-fledged smartwatch; it keeps it simple.
• Its basic design may not win any fashion awards for those looking for style.

Conclusion

Depending on your individual requirements and tastes, you should choose the best watch for rowing. There is a watch on our list that is ideal for you, regardless of whether you value robustness, sophisticated tracking capabilities, or a combination of both. These timepieces, which range from the fashionable Lorus R2301NX9 to the hardy Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW9400-1, are ideal for rowers of various skill levels and experience. Choose the one that most closely matches your rowing technique, then set out on your next aquatic expedition with poise and panache.