Merax Water Rowing Machine Review

MERAX BACKGROUND

The Merax Water pitches itself right in the middle price-range of the growing number of fluid resistant models on the market. You can get a water machine for as little $350 - see 'Also Worth a Look' below - or pay up to $2,500 for the top machines. But when there are good alternatives to this offering for less, what makes it worth the extra cost?

Well, there are a few features that might tempt you - read on.

As with all our reviews, we'll start with the assembly. And here's the good news - it's pretty straightforward and shouldn't challenge even the most novice DIYer :0)

MERAX WATER

 7.5 7.5 Stars

merax water rowing machine
Merax Water Rower

THE HARDWARE

​The rowing position is quite comfortable also. It has a good-sized and supportive seat at a reasonable height so it's not too tough on the old knees. The handle is well-padded and sits nicely in the palms (should be no blisters), and the wide footrests are up to the job off keeping you secure while rowing. But please note, as this is designed as a compact rower to suit smaller spaces so has a short beam - this means it's not that great for users over six feet tall.
It's steel frame provides a solid feel to this rowing machine, even at high stroke rates with the higher resistance. The Merax is also pretty quiet with smooth runners under the seat, so you can enjoy the sound of the water sloshing around in the tank.

So, onto the water resistance mechanism. All rowing machines use either hydraulics, magnets, air or water to provide resistance - more info here. The Merax has an inclined take which they claim increases the level of resistance (maybe, but only by a marginal amount). You can add or remove water to increase/ decrease the intensity of your workout. Note, for around $150 more, you can buy a model, such as the First Degree Newport, that has a lever to adjust the resistance level without the need to mess around with the water in the tank - something to consider.
The tank can provide six difference levels of resistance with a reasonable amount of difference between the highest and lowest to offer a varied number of workout intensities.
merax water displau console
Easy-to-read (and use) monitor

DISPLAY CONSOLE

It comes with a monitor you'll find on a number of other similar rowers. It's a reasonable-sized LCD screen that easy to use. It displays most of the usual workout data such as duration, strokes, calories, distance, and heart rate (but note, a heart rate chest strap is not included.)

Additionally, it has a race program where you set a stroke-rate and compete against the computer (we love this feature), plus you can set targets for time, distance, strokes, calories, and pulse, then the display counts down until you've achieved this target - another nice touch.
However, the console is not PC-compatible or has the ability to connect to fitness apps - a feature a number of other brands include.

REVIEW SUMMARY:

This is a solid rowing machine. It looks and feels good, the steel frame is well-built and it should give you a few years service. Our only quibble is it looks about $100 over-priced when compared to other similar rowers in this price range - see below.

Note: This website is an associate of Amazon and a number of other retailers. We earn a commission from sales generated via these links, ​but this does not influence how we rate the rowing machines we review.

PROS:

  • Sturdy steel frame
  • Great seat - very comfortable
  • Will support the 'heavier' user - but not taller
  • Easy-to-read and use LCD monitor
  • Some useful features on console
  • Easy to assemble​

CONS:

  • The price tag - a little over-priced in our view
  • Beam not suitable for rowers over 6'
  • Warranty period not great (unconfirmed)
  • Not compatible with PC or fitness apps​

SPECIFICATION

Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Machine weight:
​Warranty:
Water
330 lbs
78" x 20" (W) x 25.5" (H)
72 lbs
6 months on frame and parts

ALTERNATIVES

There's a growing number of water rowing machines in the mid-price range including the Sunny Obsidian and Xterra 600W - many share the same components. Or at the upper end of this price range, the Sunny Phantom Hydro is well worth considering. But just to confuse matters, the Fitness Reality 3000WR is also a contender.
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