The Stamina X Air Rower is a popular rowing machine, but is it durable and dpendable?
Look no further!
In this article I’ll review the Stamina X air rower and list the pro’s and cons of this rowing machine.
Table of Contents
OVERVIEW:
The Stamina X was designed as a low-cost direct competitor to the popular Concept 2 Model D.
Most won’t notice these things, but to me it’s obvious how Stamina swayed from their typical design buildout to try and copy some of the Model D’s features.
Whether they executed on those features, we’ll dig into that below.
The Stamina X sits in the mid-grade range of Stamina’s air resistance rowing machine lineup. Not their best machine, but no slough either
FEATURES:
There are a few main features that really helps the Stamina X to stand out from other rowers in this price range.
•New & Improved LCD Monitor
Compared to other rowers in their lineup, Stamina gave the X a better rowing monitor. It’s bigger, which makes it easier to see, while also including more data.
This bigger screen allows you to track more data. As a data nerd, I always appreciate being able to compare my rowing splits from session to session. I like to know that I’m getting fitter and faster.
•Durability
The name of the game for low to midrange rowing machines is durability. It’s hard to meet a good price point while providing a machine that will stand up to everyday abuse.
The Stamina team doubled down by outfitting the X with a steal frame and a rowing chain.
Many other machines within this price range use a nylon strap instead of a chain, and will use a cheaper frame material.
These two construction material choices are key for longterm durability.
•Pivoting Foot Plates
A major innovation for this machine is the included pivoting foot plate design. This allows for more ergonomic rowing.
As you row, the foot plate pivots, allowing you to get keep your foot connected with the foot plate through your entire rowing stroke.
This is a fantastic feature, especially at this price level. In comparison, the well regarded Concept 2 Model D does has a fixed foot plate design.
BENEFITS
The top benefits of this machine is that you’ll get a more-durable rowing machine at a mid-ranhe price point.
It contains a few upgrades over most rowers that you see, including the steel frame, improved monitor, and a metal chain.
The X also includes Stamina’s molded seat. It can also be easily folded.
PRO’S:
•Solid Build Quality
This machine better materials than most of its competitors. With its steel frame and metal rowing chain, it’s got a tough build quality.
As a note, it’s important that these main components (chain, frame, etc..) have strong materials as these are often the first thing to break.
Many cheaper rowers use a nylon strap, I’ve heard many horror stories of these breaking. Not so with an actual metal chain.
•Comfortable
With it’s padded seat and pivoting foot foot plates, this is a comfortable rowing machine. If you’re looking for something that’s easy to get on and off of, and that’s gentle on your body, I recommend the Stamina X rower.
•Price
This is a good value at $400. Will it compete against a C2 Model D? Probably not, but it’s also more than half the price.
For the price, it’s got good components, it’s easy to set up and store, and it allows you to get a good workout out in.
CONS:
•No Changing Resistance
This seems to be a common feature on more budget-style rowers, but there is no ability to change the resistance level on this machine.
For instance, on a Model D, you can make the “pull” harder or easier. This allows for nice variety while you’re working out. As an example, for a short sprint workout you’d want a hard pull so you can rack up the meters quickly. For a long row, it’s nice to decrease the resistance so you don’t burn yourself out too early.
The Stamina X doesn’t have this capability. And that’s a bummer.
•Only Measures Distance in Miles
This is more of a nitpicky thing, but the computer/monitor for this rower only gives distance in miles. This is ok if you’re going for a lnog row, but it’s not ideal if you’re looking to do some short, fast paced workouts.
Traditionally, rowing machines have measured work by ‘meters rowed’. Having a mile calculator is just awkward.
•Durability
This is my main complaint with most budget rowers, but the durability is an issue. After using the machine for a solid 6+ months, you may start to find flaws in the machine/build quality. Some have complained of broken foot brackets and wheels.
The warranty on this machine isn’t great. It has a 90 day warranty. You might end up needing it.
TECH SPECS:
Below are the technical specifications for the Stamina X rower.
- Material: Steel frame, metal housing, plastic fan, rowing chain
- Resistance: Air resistance
- Comfort Elements: Molded seat, padded grip
- Includes: Stamina|X Air Rower, Owner’s Manual
- Assembly: Some assembly required (about 30 mins start-to-finish)
- Dimensions (unfolded): 78.5 x 18 x 29
- Product Weight: 63 lbs
- Weight Limit: 250 lbs.
SUMMARY:
The Stamina X is a good mid-grade machine. It has some durability concerns, so I caution the heavy user away from this machine.
If you’re planning on rowing multiple times a week and plan to use this as your primary cardio device, spend more and get a better machine, like the Concept 2 Model D.
If you’re under 6 feet tall, and are looking to occasionally add rowing to your workouts, and you’re on a very tight budget – this rower is a good option.
Row on!
-Coach D