SNODE RW-8 Water Resistance Rower

Unit	Size	Supported weight	Product weight	Resistance	Console
SNODE RW-8 Check Discounted Price	L:77" W:20" H:19"	280 lbs	68 lbs	Water	Time, SPM, Strokes, Total strokes, Distance, Calories, Pulse, Intervals, Recovery, Bluetooth

The SNODE RW-8 is one of the water resistance rowers released in 2020. In terms of features, it is similar to the HouseFit Skyline as it has a folding frame, unlike most machines from WaterRower. It comes with an almost identical fitness monitor to the one included with the Skyline model, but has a slightly lower user limit (only 280 lbs).

Key Features and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 77L x 20W x 19H inches (196L x 51W x 48H cm)
• Supported weight: 280 lbs (127 kg)
• Net weight: 68 lbs (31 kg)
• Frame: Beech wood
• Footrests: Adjustable
• Resistance type: Water
• Fitness monitor: Time, strokes per minute, strokes, total strokes, distance, calories, pulse, intervals, recovery, Bluetooth
• Extras: Device holder
• Warranty: 1 year

Frame construction

The SNODE RW-8 water resistance rower features a wooden frame made of oiled beech wood. The water tank is made of polycarbonate material, while several other parts, such as the footrests and the rail covers are made of durable thermoplastic material. The frame joints are steel-made.

Like most other rowing machines with a wooden frame, the RW-8 features a dual rail system. This not only improves the sturdiness of the frame, but also improves the stability of the seat. For some rowers with a monorail, the seat may be wobbly.

As we’ve mentioned above, the SNODE RW-8 rower is slightly smaller than the HouseFit Skyline. It is approx. 77″ (196 cm) long, and 20″ (51 cm) wide. The applicable inseam length for this machine is approx. 34″ (86 cm). Therefore, it may not be the best choice for taller users than 6’4″ (193 cm).

The machine’s frame is foldable. The rail system has a set of hinges in the middle which allows you to fold the rower in half. With the frame folded, the machine’s dimensions are 23″L x 20″ x 38″H (58.4 x 51 x 96.5 cm). Also, in case you’re wondering, the water can remain in the tank when the rower is folded and stored.

The fully assembled machine isn’t too heavy. Its net weight (without water in the resistance tank) is approx. 68 lbs (31 kg). This being said, it can be carried and assembled by only one person. Also, once assembled, it can easily be moved as its front and rear bases are equipped with transport wheels. Also, the machine rests on four large rubber pads; these are non-adjustable.

Seat and other parts

The SNODE RW-8 rower is equipped with a pretty standard seat similar to most other wooden rowers. The top of the seat features a small cushion with a urethane cover which is also contoured to provide a better positioning for the user.

The base frame of the seat is also made of beech wood like the rest of the frame. It integrates two sets of wheels (eight in total). Four wheels slide on top of the rails, while the other four slide on the inner sides of the rails for extra stability. The wheels integrate ball bearings for a smooth seat motion. They also have a rubber layer on the outside to reduce noise.

The top of the seat is not too high above the floor level. Its height is approx. 12″ (30.4 cm). This height may not be an issue for most users, but users with certain disabilities may find it a bit difficult to take position on it. Also, the machine’s rails are perfectly horizontal, so the rowing motion is neutral; the leg push phase doesn’t require extra effort as is the case for rowers with an inclined rail system.

The rower is equipped with a set of adjustable footrests. As we’ve mentioned above, they’re made of durable thermoplastic material. They’re attached to a wooden board which has an angle of approx. 45° for an optimal foot positioning. They have heel guards and adjustable straps so you can perfectly secure your feet on them if necessary.

The machine’s pulling handle consists of a short straight bar with oval grips. It features PVC foam sleeves for improved comfort. It attaches to a heavy-duty nylon strap which connects to the inner drive mechanism of the machine. It does not have pulse sensors but the fitness monitor does have a pulse reading function.

Resistance system

The SNODE RW-8 is a water resistance rowing machine. This type of resistance system comes with a few advantages. First of all, it provides a dynamic response during rowing. This means that the resistance depends on how fast you pull the handle. In other words, the faster you pull, the more resistance you will get. Second of all, due to the dynamic response, the rowing sensation is pretty close to rowing a real boat. And finally, the machine doesn’t generate a loud noise as is the case for some air resistance rowers.

The unit is equipped with a polycarbonate water tank. Its exact capacity is not specified, but it’s probably between 3.5 and 4.5 gallons (13 – 17 liters). The tank does not have any mechanical resistance adjustment elements as is the case for the First Degree Fitness Apollo Pro V, for example. However, you can adjust the overall resistance by removing or adding water, provided that you don’t exceed the maximum fill mark on the tank.

The main resistance-generating element is the 16-blade impeller inside the water tank. The impeller is attached to the rower’s pulley system. Thus, when you pull the handle, it spins in the water inside the tank generating resistance.

A siphon pump and a pack of chlorine pills are included with the rower. The pump is manual, not motorized. The chlorine pills should keep the tank water clean and prevent the formation of algae or other microorganisms. A pill should be added to the tank water every 6 months.

Fitness monitor

The SNODE RW-8 is equipped with a multi-function fitness monitor. It features an LCD display that tracks time, strokes, SPM, calories, distance, and pulse. The pulse reading function requires a wireless HR chest strap which is not included.

The monitor unit has three workout modes – Manual, Interval Custom, and Target. The Interval Mode gives you the possibility to create a custom workout interval with rest/work periods. The Target mode allows you to select targets for various metrics, such as time, strokes, calories, etc. When a target is selected, the unit will countdown from it until it reaches zero, indicating when you have completed your set up goal. And finally, the Manual mode allows you to just row, and the monitor will indicate your SPM, strokes, time elapsed, etc.

The monitor unit also has Bluetooth connectivity. Via the Bluetooth connection, you can sync the rowing monitor to your smartphone or tablet through the FitShow app. A scannable QR code is provided with the machine which facilitates the easy installation of the app into your phone. The app is compatible with both Apple and Android devices. The app offers standard workout programs and allows you to track your progress online.

Last but not least, the monitor unit features a device holder. This consists of a small shelf at the base of the unit which can support your tablet or smartphone. It is battery-powered and the batteries are included.

Assembly and Maintenance

The front unit of the machine with the water resistance tank and the other drive elements comes pre-assembled. You only need to attach the rear part of the rails, the seat, and fill the tank with water. This shouldn’t take more than 30-40 minutes. All the tools are included and the manual provides fairly decent assembly instructions.

For maintenance, it is recommended to keep the machine clean, especially the rails to prevent any damage to the seat’s wheels. The box includes a bottle of chlorine pills to treat the water inside the tank. Other than this, you only need to periodically inspect the machine to make sure that all its parts still function properly and all the screws still hold tight in their places.

The Pros

• Sturdy frame – can support users up to 280 lbs;
• Beech wood frame with an aesthetic design;
• Folding frame;
• Easy to handle and transport;
• Rubberized stabilizers for extra floor protection;
• Water-resistance system, providing the most natural rowing feel that you can get;
• Padded and contoured seat;
• Adjustable footrests;
• Multi-window fitness monitor included;
• Three workout modes on the fitness monitor (manual, target, and interval);
• Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with the FitShow App (for iOS and Android);
• Smooth and quiet operation;
• All the necessary tools are included;
• Water pump included;
• Tools for assembly are included;
• Water purification pills included;
• Phone holder integrated into the fitness monitor;
• Little maintenance required;
• Easy to assemble.

The Cons

• No backlight on the fitness monitor;
• The HR chest strap for pulse reading is not included.

Summary

The SNODE RW-8 is a water resistance rower made for home use. It features a folding beech wood frame, a ~4.5 gallon water tank, a set of adjustable footrests, and a comfortable seat. It also includes a fitness monitor with three workout modes and Bluetooth connectivity, compatible with the FitShow app. It’s a pretty decent machine for a full-body cardio workout, muscle toning, interval training, stamina development, and weight loss.