Choosing the right rowing and crew equipment keeps your machine working longer, improves comfort, and makes training more productive. Our recommendations come from hands-on testing, technical checks, and consumer feedback to help you pick durable, practical accessories for both on-water and indoor rowing.
How we tested and chose products
What we evaluated:
- Real-world usage: long-term fit, ease of installation, and day-to-day durability.
- Technical checks: materials, dimensions, compatibility with popular machines (Concept2 PM5, water rowers, common frames).
- Expert input and consumer feedback: aggregated verified reviews and prioritized recurring issues (leaks, wear, fit problems).
- Practical testing: we installed covers and mounts, applied chain oil and tested smoothness, measured fit for handle covers, and verified phone holder compatibility.
Our picks balance reliability, cost, and user experience. Products were ranked for specific needs (budget, premium protection, maintenance value, and training ergonomics).
Universal Handle Cover
A simple, low-cost handle sleeve that reduces blisters, improves grip, and absorbs sweat during long sessions. Made from elastic knitted cotton, it’s breathable, washable, and slides on easily — a fast, practical upgrade for rowers wanting immediate hand protection.
Why it's the Best Budget Pick
- Standout features: Elastic knitted cotton, breathable and sweat-absorbing, easy on/off for washing.
- Why it works: Protects palms from blisters and reduces need for gloves; maintains grip without sticky residues.
- Technical notes: Universal fit for most handles (Concept2, Hydrow, Sunny, etc.). Machine-washable and inexpensive.
Pros:
- Affordable and effective
- Keeps hands dry and comfortable
Cons:
- Not a substitute for full glove protection in very long or wet sessions
- May need replacement over time with heavy use
Heavy-Duty Rower Cover
A rugged 420D oxford fabric cover with triple coating, waterproof seam strips, windproof buckles, and reflective handles. Designed to guard Concept2 and similar rowers from rain, sun, dust, and snow — ideal for outdoor storage and long-term protection.
Why it's the Premium Choice
- Standout features: Extra-thick 420D material, nano triple coating, waterproof seam strips, double-stitched seams, air vent, and reflective removal handles.
- Performance: Built to handle harsh outdoor conditions (high water-pressure rating and UV protection). Windproof buckles and elastic hems keep the cover secure in storms.
- Fit and specs: 95" L x 24" W x 40" H — designed for Concept2-style rowers; we tested fit on typical Concept2 Model Ds and found a snug, protective fit.
Pros:
- Exceptional weather resistance and durability
- Thoughtful details (air vent, reflective handles) for real-world use
Cons:
- Bulkier and pricier than lightweight covers
- Measure your frame first — very large or unusual frames may need checking
Rowing Chain Oil
An 8 oz premium chain lubricant formulated for rower chains. Compatible with Concept2 models and many major brands, it's an affordable way to reduce wear, quieten operation, and extend chain life — easy to apply and great value for maintenance-minded owners.
Why it's the Best Value for Money
- Standout features: Premium formula in an 8 oz bottle, broadly compatible with Concept2 and other common rower models.
- Performance: Regular application reduces friction and rust, improves smoothness of the chain, and extends component life—meaning fewer repairs long-term.
- Usage: Apply weekly or per manufacturer recommendations during heavy use; wipe off excess to avoid attracting dust.
Pros:
- Low price for meaningful longevity improvements
- Straightforward application
Cons:
- Needs regular application for best results
- Aftermarket product — follow your rower manufacturer’s guidelines for warranty considerations
PM5 Phone Holder
A silicone cradle designed for Concept2 PM5 monitors that holds phones securely without pressing buttons. Fits large phones (even with slim cases), offers reinforced ribs for stability, and improves workouts by letting you stream video or apps during sessions.
Why it's the Editor's Choice
- Standout features: Patent-pending silicone design with ribs to prevent button presses, reinforced back rib for stability, stretches to fit most phones.
- Performance: Keeps your phone visible and secure on PM5 monitors during high cadence rowing; enhances training with video, apps, and entertainment.
- Compatibility: Specifically for PM5 monitors (not PM3/PM4). Fits many phones including large devices with thin cases; very easy to install and remove.
Pros:
- Greatly improves workout experience and adherence
- Durable, washable silicone and simple fit
Cons:
- Limited to PM5 monitors (won't fit older PM3/PM4)
- Extra-large phones with very thick cases may not fit comfortably
Comparison and Summary
Quick comparison
- Heavy-Duty Rower Cover (Premium Choice): Best for outdoor protection and long-term preservation of your machine. Robust materials and secure fit.
- Rowing Chain Oil (Best Value): High-impact, low-cost maintenance item that reduces wear and keeps the drivetrain smooth.
- PM5 Phone Holder (Editors Choice): Best for improving the training experience — ideal for PM5 users who stream workouts or follow apps.
- Universal Handle Cover (Best Budget): Cheapest upgrade with immediate benefits for hand comfort and blister prevention.
Best overall: Heavy-Duty Rower Cover — protecting an expensive rower from weather and UV damage has the biggest long-term return on investment.
Alternatives for specific needs:
- If you row indoors and want better training engagement, pick the PM5 Phone Holder.
- If maintenance and longevity matter most, the Chain Oil is the top practical buy.
- For budget-conscious rowers who need immediate comfort, the Handle Cover is an easy, inexpensive fix.
Recommendation by scenario
- Outdoor storage / harsh climates: Heavy-Duty Rower Cover
- Extend chain life / reduce noise: Rowing Chain Oil
- Improve indoor training / use apps or video: PM5 Phone Holder
- Prevent blisters on a budget: Universal Handle Cover
Our rankings are grounded in hands-on testing, compatibility checks, and broad user feedback. For most owners who want the largest protective payoff, the heavy-duty rowing machine cover is the top pick — it prevents weather damage and keeps your investment safe. If you value ride quality and low operating noise, regular use of chain oil delivers the best maintenance ROI. And for rowers focused on comfort or engagement, the handle sleeve and PM5 phone cradle are inexpensive upgrades that materially improve everyday use. Choose the product that matches your primary need — protection, maintenance, comfort, or training experience — and you’ll get the most value from your rowing setup.