Travel & Leisure
Tue, October 28, 2025
Hydrow Arc Review: This Smart Rowing Machine Turns Workouts Into World Travel
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, October 28th 2025 at 8:42 GMT by PC Magazine- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Hydrow Arc Review: A New Angle on Smart Rowing
The Hydrow Arc has entered the crowded home‑fitness market with a clear promise: deliver the same high‑quality rowing experience that made the original Hydrow machine a cult favorite, but in a more compact, affordable, and versatile package. After a month of hands‑on testing, the Arc proves that it can hold its own against the industry’s top rowers while adding a few distinctive twists that make it especially appealing for home users who value convenience and community.
Design and Build
The Arc’s most noticeable difference from its predecessor is its slanted, curved seat. The seat is engineered to lean forward at a 45‑degree angle, which encourages a more natural rowing posture and allows the user to stretch out fully without feeling cramped. The machine’s frame is a sturdy aluminum alloy that weighs roughly 220 lbs, giving it a solid feel without feeling overly bulky. Its dimensions—about 72 inches long, 35 inches wide, and 54 inches high—fit comfortably in a typical living‑room or home gym space.
The footrests are padded and feature an adjustable strap system that holds the feet securely while still allowing a smooth glide. The handle is ergonomically designed with a silicone grip that feels comfortable even after extended sessions. Unlike many rowers on the market, the Arc’s console is a touch‑screen display that runs the Hydrow app, offering a streamlined user interface that’s easy to navigate even for beginners.
Performance and Resistance
Hydrow’s hallmark is its water‑based resistance system, and the Arc keeps that core principle intact. Users can adjust the resistance level by turning the handle, which controls the flow of water in the onboard tank. In practice, the resistance feels smooth and consistent, with no harsh “snap” moments that can be found on magnetic or pneumatic systems. For advanced users, the Arc offers an adjustable resistance range that’s suitable for both low‑intensity endurance workouts and high‑intensity interval training (HIIT).
The seat’s sliding mechanism operates quietly, and the entire machine runs at a noise level that’s comparable to a well‑maintained concept2 or NordicTrack rower. The Arc’s lightweight design also means that the machine can be moved more easily than its larger counterparts, which is a significant advantage for renters or those who don’t have a permanent workout spot.
The Hydrow App and Streaming Library
One of the biggest selling points for any Hydrow machine is its software. The Arc is fully compatible with the Hydrow app, which offers a curated library of over 3,000 live and on‑demand classes. The streaming interface is visually striking, featuring high‑definition video, real‑time metrics, and a community leaderboard that tracks performance against thousands of other users.
In addition to the workout library, the app allows users to log custom sessions, sync metrics with Apple Health or Google Fit, and even track heart‑rate data when paired with a compatible wearable. While the Arc itself does not have a built‑in heart‑rate monitor, the integration with external devices ensures that users can still keep a close eye on their cardiovascular performance.
Hydrow’s membership model is optional but recommended. A 12‑month membership (currently priced at $399, or $39 per month) gives full access to the class library, and it can be purchased directly through the Hydrow app or via the Hydrow website. For users who want to experience the app without committing to a subscription, Hydrow offers a free trial period that lets you explore the first few classes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
| • | |
|---|---|
| Compact, easy‑to‑store design | The Arc’s smaller footprint makes it suitable for apartments and small homes. |
| Smooth water resistance | Provides a consistent, natural rowing feel. |
| High‑quality app integration | Access to thousands of live and on‑demand classes. |
| Quiet operation | The machine runs with minimal noise, suitable for shared living spaces. |
| Solid build quality | Durable frame and ergonomic components that feel premium. |
Cons
| • | |
|---|---|
| No built‑in heart‑rate monitor | Requires an external wearable for HR tracking. |
| Limited adjustability for foot straps | Some users may find the straps less customizable than other brands. |
| Higher cost than traditional rowers | Still priced higher than most non‑smart rowers on the market. |
| Requires a Wi‑Fi connection | Streaming features rely on a stable internet connection. |
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
When compared to the Concept2 2X or the NordicTrack Rower 14.0, the Hydrow Arc shines in its digital experience and community aspect. The Concept2’s reputation for durability and low maintenance is undeniable, but it offers no streaming classes or real‑time coaching. The NordicTrack Rower 14.0 does provide a water‑based system, yet its interface feels clunky and its subscription model is more expensive. Hydrow’s membership is flexible, and the library is consistently updated, giving users fresh content every week.
Price is another critical factor. The Hydrow Arc is currently priced around $1,299 (USD), which is noticeably lower than the original Hydrow machine that tops out at $1,799. While still an investment, the Arc’s affordability opens the door for a broader audience without sacrificing the high‑quality experience that defines Hydrow.
Final Verdict
The Hydrow Arc delivers a compelling blend of design, performance, and community that makes it a standout choice for home fitness enthusiasts who want a full‑body rowing workout without leaving their living space. Its water‑based resistance feels authentic, the compact frame is easy to handle, and the integrated app transforms the workout into an interactive, socially engaging experience. While the lack of a built‑in heart‑rate monitor and the requirement for a Wi‑Fi connection might deter some users, the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks for most people.
In short, the Hydrow Arc proves that you don’t need a huge space or a massive budget to enjoy a smart, community‑driven rowing machine. With its intuitive interface, smooth resistance, and a growing library of professional coaching, it offers a complete workout experience that’s as effective as it is enjoyable. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile home rower that’s built for the digital age, the Hydrow Arc is worth serious consideration.
Read the Full PC Magazine Article at:
[ https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/hydrow-arc ]
