How to Choose the Best Indoor Rowing Gear: Your Comprehensive Guide to What to Wear on the Erg

The erg doesn’t lie—it demands effort and rewards precision. Whether pushing through 2k splits or racking up meters for endurance, your gear plays a crucial role in your performance. Indoor rowing clothing must be lightweight, moisture-wicking, and designed for dynamic motion. Look for fabrics that balance stretch and durability, keeping you comfortable through even the most grueling sessions. High-performance gear should also reduce distractions like chafing or overheating so you can stay focused on your workout. 

From seasoned athletes to fitness enthusiasts just starting, let’s break down the essential gear you need to excel on the erg.

Choosing the Right Apparel for Peak Performance on the Erg

The right indoor rowing apparel keeps you comfortable, focused, and primed to perform at your best. Let’s break down what every rower needs to hit their stride. 

Upper Body Gear

• Rowing Tanks - Tanks provide maximum freedom of movement for your shoulders and arms, which is crucial for nailing the catch-to-drive transition. Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics help you stay cool when the intensity ramps up.
• Short-Sleeve Shirts - A fitted short-sleeve shirt is a versatile choice, offering coverage without getting in the way. Boathouse’s lightweight technical fabrics make our shirts a go-to for rowers who train daily.
• Long-Sleeve Shirts - Rowing in cooler spaces? A long-sleeve shirt can add warmth without sacrificing breathability or flexibility. These are great for early-morning training sessions.
•  Sports Bras - For women rowers, a supportive sports bra is essential. Look for styles that provide compression and stay in place throughout your session.

Lower Body Gear

• Compression Shorts - Compression gear reduces chafing and improves blood flow, keeping you locked in for marathon sessions. Check out Boathouse’s selection of men's compression clothing and women's compression clothing.
• Performance Leggings - Full-length leggings are options for cooler spaces or longer workouts. Boathouse designs leggings with elite technical fabrics that stay put during your entire session.
• Rowing Trou - Rowing trou are explicitly designed for the rigors of the sliding seat. A snug, streamlined fit eliminates excess fabric that could bunch up or interfere with your movement. Premium options from Boathouse are made from compression-grade materials that provide muscle support and reduce fatigue, while their durable construction holds up through countless training sessions. 

Unisuits

Unisuits are a favorite for competitive rowers and indoor athletes, offering a sleek, one-piece design that eliminates distractions. No tugging at your shirt or adjusting your shorts mid-workout—unisuits stay put. They’re crafted from technical fabrics that wick sweat, provide stretch for unhindered mobility, and maintain durability over time. Rowers often seek unisuits with breathable panels for comfort and a fit that hugs the body without restricting movement.

Extra Layers

When your erg session starts cold, extra layers help regulate your body temperature so you can train more effectively from the first stroke. Whether warming up, cooling down, or rowing in a drafty space, layering the right pieces helps maintain optimal comfort. 

Lightweight Jackets and Windbreakers

Block the chill without adding bulk. A lightweight jacket or windbreaker offers breathability and protection for warming up or transitioning from indoor to outdoor spaces. Boathouse windbreakers are crafted with durable fabrics that move with you–they won’t slow you down mid-workout. 

Vests

Vests are a smart choice for rowers who want core warmth without restricting arm movement. They provide an extra layer of insulation while keeping your shoulders and arms free for smooth strokes. 

Pullover Sweatshirts

Boathouse’s crews and hoodies offer a versatile option for staying warm before or after a session. Soft, durable fabrics deliver cozy comfort while athletic cuts fit seamlessly over your rowing gear.

Accessories

1. Rowing Gloves - Protect your hands from blisters, especially during longer sessions. Look for gloves with breathable fabrics and grip-enhancing technology.
2. Headbands or Sweatbands - Manage sweat and prevent distractions.
3. Water Bottles - Hydration is critical during intense erg workouts. Opt for bottles with easy-squeeze designs or one-handed operation for convenience mid-session.
4. Seat Cushions - If you’re prone to discomfort during long rows, a well-designed cushion can help you focus on your performance rather than a sore butt. Look for options with anti-slip backing and memory foam support.
5. Fitness Trackers - Many rowers rely on data to drive their training. Invest in a tracker that syncs seamlessly with your rowing machine and provides detailed feedback on heart rate, stroke count, and split time metrics. 

Footwear

Footwear for indoor rowing should provide stability, secure strap placement, and a non-slip sole to maximize power transfer. Cross-training shoes with flat soles work well as they keep your feet locked into position without excessive padding or instability. 

Don’t overlook the importance of socks—they’re just as crucial as your shoes. Choose thin, snug-fitting socks that reduce friction and help prevent blisters during longer sessions. Some rowers even choose grippy socks for extra stability within the foot straps.

Customizable Rowing Attire

Boathouse makes it easy to customize rowing gear to add team colors, logos, branding, and more. With a user-friendly online design tool and fast turnaround times for bulk orders, creating unique, high-quality apparel for your team or club has never been simpler.

Ready to Row? 

Every stroke on the erg is a testament to your dedication, whether chasing a PR or grinding through another training block. Your gear should work as hard as you do, keeping you comfortable and focused on the task at hand. At Boathouse, we bring decades of athletic expertise to every piece of apparel we make, crafting gear that meets the demands of serious rowers. Proudly American-made and built in Philadelphia, our rowing apparel combines innovation, durability, and a commitment to quality. Explore our collection today – including men’s casual rowing gear and women’s casual rowing gear - and experience the difference authentic craftsmanship makes.