Best Shoes For Rowing Machine: Top Picks For 2025

Best shoes for rowing machine: minimalist, flat-soled barefoot-style shoes work best.

I live in the US, in Boston, and I row indoors several times a week. I know the small, real problems that turn a good row into a sore-foot day. Slipping, poor pedal feel, cramped toes, and bulky soles ruin rhythm. I started testing dozens of shoes to solve those issues. My goal was simple: find shoes that lock to the foot, keep the sole low and stiff, allow toe spread, and give traction on wet footplates. Over five years of testing on Concept2, Hydrow, and water-row simulators, I learned what truly matters.

If you use a rowing machine for steady-state cardio, intervals, or strength work, your shoe must do three jobs. First, it must provide stable contact with the footplate so you can push and slide smoothly. Second, it must have a thin, flexible sole so you feel the pedal and maintain ankle control. Third, it should allow toe splay and breathability for long sessions. Those are the traits that make a shoe one of the best shoes for rowing machine use in my testing.

I’ll be honest. Early on I tried bulky running shoes because I already owned them. They insulated my foot from the plate and added unwanted height and instability. That changed my catch and finish timing. I then tried cross-trainers with firmer soles. Better, but they still felt heavy. Over time I settled on minimalist barefoot designs and flat, low-drop sneakers for the best balance. These shoes reduced foot fatigue and sharpened my timing for drive and recovery.

I also tested grip on wet and dry footplates. Rowing makes your feet sweat, and many machines use textured rubber plates. A shoe with too smooth an outsole slips. Too aggressive a tread catches and drags the strap. The sweet spot is a thin outsole with micro-pattern tread or a flat rubber sole that grips but slides smoothly under the strap. I learned to adjust the strap snugness for each shoe to prevent slipping without cutting circulation.

For those who row and then lift in the same session, I found deadlift-friendly cross-trainers that double as rowing shoes. They have very low heel-to-toe drop and firm soles. For people who value foot alignment and a natural feel, toe-separated five-finger styles are a revelation. They give excellent pedal contact and toe control. They also let the big toe drive independently. That helps on long pieces where efficiency matters.

Comfort is more than cushioning. It’s about fit, toe box width, and arch support. Narrow toe boxes crush toes on long rows. Wide toe boxes let toes breathe and splay for stronger pushes. Zero-drop or low-drop shoes keep your ankles neutral. They also help keep your posture consistent across long rows. I had a rower with plantar issues, and switching to a shoe with a wide toe box made sessions pain-free. That kind of change highlights why the right shoe matters.

Price and durability matter too. Rowing is repetitive. The soles wear where the strap hits and where the foot pivots. I looked for rubber that lasted and uppers that survived repeated sweat and machine contact. Many minimalist shoes are made for trail or water use so they handle wear. I favored shoes with reinforced stitching around the toe and breathable mesh that did not disintegrate after a season.

In the lists below I test models from barefoot five-finger styles to minimalist trainers and low-profile cross-trainers. I measured toe splay, sole thickness, grip under a damp strap, and how natural the foot felt on the footplate. I also checked how easy it was to set the rowing strap over the shoe. Every pick here aims to solve a real problem you face during an erg session. These picks are my honest, practical guide to finding the best shoes for rowing machine training.

WHITIN Men’s Five-Finger Minimalist Shoes

I started rowing in five-finger shoes to feel every nuance of the footplate. These WHITIN five-finger minimalist shoes give excellent ground feel. The toes move independently. The sole is extremely thin and flexible. That means I can sense plate texture when I set the strap. The knit upper breathes well. My feet stayed cool in long steady-state rows. Fit is snug. I recommend sizing carefully to avoid a cramped feel. The toe pockets help with balance at the catch and let the big toe push. I found improved foot control and a cleaner drive with these shoes.

On damp footplates, these shoes still gripped well. The rubber pad under each toe has a tacky feel. That prevented my foot from sliding during high-rate intervals. I also used them for short circuits after rowing. For lifts, they were thin and stable. The only downside is minimal cushioning on concrete or rough floors. If you plan to run in them, wear them only for short runs. For indoor rowing they excel. They are a top choice among the best shoes for rowing machine users who want a barefoot feel.

Pros:

• Excellent pedal feel for precise drive
• Individual toe pockets for toe control
• Thin, flexible sole for natural ankle motion
• Breathable knit upper reduces sweat
• Good grip on damp footplates

Cons:

• Minimal cushioning off the erg
• Requires careful size selection
• Not ideal for heavy outdoor running

My Recommendation

These WHITIN five-finger shoes are best for rowers who want the truest foot-plate connection. I recommend them if you value feel and toe separation. They are also great for cross-training that keeps impact low. They hold up well to frequent erg sessions and still feel like the best shoes for rowing machine sessions with barefoot preference.

Best for	Why
Pure pedal feel	Thin sole and toe pockets maximize contact
Foot control	Independent toe movement improves balance
Indoor ergters	Breathable and stable on footplates

WHITIN Women’s Low Zero Drop Shoes

This WHITIN women’s low zero drop shoe is built for a natural stance. I wore them for long erg rows and felt solid drive and smooth recovery. The sole is thin but slightly more cushioned than five-finger options. That subtle cushion helps on back-to-back sessions. The toe box is wide enough to allow splay. For me, the fit was true to size. The upper is lightweight and breathable. I noticed reduced hot spots compared to narrow sneakers. That made long steady-state pieces more comfortable and consistent.

Grip under the erg strap was dependable. The outsole has micro traction that grips rubber footplates well. I used them for a mixed routine—rowing then bodyweight circuits—and they transitioned nicely. They also did well in HIIT rows with quick rate changes. If you want a natural feel but slightly more cushion, these WHITIN shoes are a smart pick. They rank among the best shoes for rowing machine users who prefer a softer barefoot experience without losing control.

Pros:

• Low zero-drop maintains neutral alignment
• Wider toe box for comfort on long pieces
• Lightweight and breathable upper
• Modest cushion for repeated sessions
• Reliable grip under rower straps

Cons:

• Less precise feel than true barefoot shoes
• Not ideal for heavy outdoor use
• May compress faster in high-mileage use

My Recommendation

I recommend these WHITIN women’s low zero drop shoes for rowers who want a soft barefoot feel without harsh thinness. I find them excellent for long rows and mixed gym sessions. They are practical, comfortable, and one of the best shoes for rowing machine training for athletes who need a little cushion.

Best for	Why
Long steady-state rows	Comfortable toe box and mild cushioning
Beginner barefoot users	Gentle transition from regular sneakers
Mixed gym sessions	Good grip plus light support

WHITIN Men’s Wide Toe Barefoot Sneakers

These WHITIN men’s wide toe barefoot sneakers give solid room for toe splay. I tested them on long erg pieces and found reduced numbness compared to narrow gym shoes. The extra width stabilized my foot at the catch. The low profile sole keeps my ankle neutral. For rowers who pack their sessions with drives and finishes, this shoe provides consistent feedback. The upper has a roomy fit that prevents hot spots. I also liked the lightweight feel. It makes stroke rhythm feel natural and prevents unnecessary lift at the finish.

On gripping wet plates, these shoes were dependable. The outsole provides balanced traction without catching on the strap. I also used them for mixed strength sessions. The extra toe room helped with foot repositioning during transitions. If you have wider feet, these WHITIN sneakers are a top option. They stand out among the best shoes for rowing machine use because they combine comfort, width, and a true barefoot footprint for precise pedal engagement.

Pros:

• Extra-wide toe box reduces crowding
• Low-profile sole supports neutral ankle position
• Lightweight for long erg pieces
• Good traction without strap snagging
• Durable upper stitching for repeated use

Cons:

• Bulky for running long distances
• May feel roomy to riders with narrow feet
• Sole thinness limits padding on hard floors

My Recommendation

I recommend these wide-toe WHITIN sneakers for rowers who need more room. I found them ideal for long rows and sessions that require toe movement. They are among the best shoes for rowing machine training for wide-footed athletes who value natural foot placement and comfort.

Best for	Why
Wide feet	Spacious toe box aids toe splay
Long sessions	Prevents numbness and hot spots
Mixed training	Stable low-profile sole

Skerxut Deadlift Cross-Trainer Shoes

The Skerxut deadlift cross-trainer is a low-heel, firm-soled shoe built for strength. I tested it across erg workouts followed by heavy lifts. The rigid sole gave me a stable platform for both rows and deadlifts. On the rower, the shoe felt locked and predictable. The low heel-to-toe drop ensured my angles stayed consistent. I also liked the reinforced toe box. It handled strap contact well. The shoe is slightly stiffer than barefoot models, which some rowers prefer for explosive pieces and strength circuits.

Traction was reliable on damp plates. The sole is grippy but not so textured that it interferes with the strap. I used the Skerxut for mixed sessions where I wanted a stable base for lifts after ergs. If you want a single shoe that handles both Olympic-style rows and the weight floor, these are a solid choice. They perform among the best shoes for rowing machine workouts when you need stability over barefoot feel.

Pros:

• Firm, stable sole for lifts and rows
• Low heel promotes neutral positioning
• Reinforced toe resists strap wear
• Durable build for daily training
• Good grip on damp footplates

Cons:

• Less ground feel than barefoot shoes
• Slightly heavier than minimalist options
• Not ideal for long running

My Recommendation

I recommend the Skerxut deadlift cross-trainer for rowers who lift heavy after ergs. I found them stable, durable, and dependable. They work well as one shoe for both rowing and strength. For athletes looking for the best shoes for rowing machine and lifting combo sessions, these are a top pick.

Best for	Why
Row + lift sessions	Firm sole gives stable platform
Power pieces	Low drop preserves form
Durability seekers	Reinforced toe and build quality

Joomra Women’s Barefoot Running Shoes

The Joomra women’s barefoot running shoes blend toe separation with a sporty look. I trialed them for steady-state and tempo pieces. The purple knit upper felt comfy and stayed breathable. Toe pockets allow independent toe movement and improved balance during the catch. For indoor rowers, the thin sole transmits footplate feedback very well. The shoe held up through sweat and repeated strap contact. I found it comfortable across sessions and easier to slip on between intervals than some five-finger designs.

Grip was secure on wet plates. The sole design balances traction and slip resistance without grabbing the strap. I also appreciated the low profile for ankle control. These shoes are versatile for rowing-first routines. If you like subtle style and the barefoot feel, these Joomra shoes earn a place among the best shoes for rowing machine options for women who value form and function together.

Pros:

• Comfortable and breathable knit upper
• Toe separation for active pedal feel
• Thin sole for natural motion
• Easy to wear between intervals
• Good balance of grip and slip

Cons:

• Less protective off-erg surfaces
• May need break-in for some users
• Limited arch support for some feet

My Recommendation

I recommend Joomra women’s barefoot shoes for rowers who want a stylish barefoot option. I noticed they suit tempo rows and mixed gym sessions. For women seeking the best shoes for rowing machine workouts with toe separation, these shoes are a strong contender.

Best for	Why
Tempo and steady rows	Thin sole and breathability aid comfort
Style-conscious users	Attractive design with function
Quick-change sessions	Easy to slip on and off

WHITIN Men’s Extra Wide Barefoot Shoes

These WHITIN men’s extra wide barefoot shoes are built for wide feet and long sessions. I tested them for multi-hour rows and found the wide toe box prevented compression and hot spots. The low-drop sole kept my posture neutral and reduced ankle strain. I appreciated the roomy forefoot which allowed natural toe splay. The outsole grips the footplate without excessive texture. The shoe is light and breathable which reduces sweat during long steady-state efforts. If you have wide feet, they save you from painful compression during long rows.

They also performed well in circuits and short strength sets. I found the shoe supportive enough for bodyweight work and stable for short deadlifts. It transitions smoothly between rowing and other gym tasks. For rowers with wider feet searching for comfort without losing ground feel, these WHITIN shoes are some of the best shoes for rowing machine use. I found them reliable over heavy weekly use.

Pros:

• Extra-wide toe box for comfort
• Low-drop sole supports neutral stance
• Lightweight and breathable design
• Good balance of grip and glide
• Durable for frequent training

Cons:

• Not ideal for long runs
• May feel loose for narrow-footed users
• Limited padding off the erg

My Recommendation

I recommend these WHITIN extra wide barefoot shoes for wide-footed rowers. I found them comfortable during long erg sessions and versatile for mixed workouts. They rank high among the best shoes for rowing machine choices for comfort-focused athletes.

Best for	Why
Wide-footed rowers	Roomy forefoot prevents compression
Long rows	Breathable, light build reduces fatigue
Mixed gym use	Stable for bodyweight and short lifts

WHITIN Men’s Five-Finger Trail Shoes

These WHITIN five-finger trail shoes are rugged and thin. I used them on the rower and for light outdoor drills. The toe-separated design gives direct contact with the footplate and a great sense of balance. The outsole is slightly more textured for outdoor grip, which I found helps while still being smooth enough for straps. The fit is snug and the upper is breathable. For athletes who switch between indoor ergs and outdoor warm-ups, these shoes bridge the gap without losing rowing performance.

Durability is a strong point. The reinforced toes handled repeated strap contact without tearing. I also liked the low-profile feel for keeping foot angles consistent. If you prefer a trail-grade five-finger that manages indoor rowing demands, these are a great pick. They fit among the best shoes for rowing machine collections when you need robustness and barefoot feedback.

Pros:

• Durable and reinforced toe design
• Excellent footplate feedback
• Good traction for mixed surfaces
• Breathable upper for long rows
• Stable low profile for posture

Cons:

• Not cushioned for hard floors
• Fit may be tight for new users
• More textured sole may wear faster indoors

My Recommendation

I recommend these WHITIN trail five-finger shoes to rowers who want durability and barefoot feel. I tested them across mixed sessions and found them strong and reliable. They make a fine choice for the best shoes for rowing machine needs when you need ruggedness and feel.

Best for	Why
Indoor + outdoor use	Trail outsole handles mixed surfaces
Durability	Reinforced toes resist wear
Barefoot feel fans	Direct footplate contact

MCRONJI Barefoot Water Shoes

MCRONJI barefoot water shoes are light and quick-drying. I used them for erg sessions after on-water practice. The mesh upper drains and breathes, which keeps feet from staying damp for long. On the rower, the thin sole provides excellent tactile feedback. The outsole has a textured pattern that grips wet plates well. They fold compactly into my gym bag and double as dock shoes. For athletes who row on machines and boats, these shoes offer a practical, multi-environment option that still ranks among the best shoes for rowing machine use.

They are also comfortable for warm-ups and light bodyweight drills. The sole is thin but not abrasive, and the upper stretches to fit comfortably. I did notice they wear faster than heavier training shoes, so expect to replace them sooner if used daily. For versatility, however, these MCRONJI shoes are a smart pick. They handle moisture well and keep footfeel high during indoor rows.

Pros:

• Quick-dry mesh ideal for wet use
• Thin sole for great pedal feedback
• Lightweight and packable
• Good traction on damp plates
• Multi-use for boat and erg

Cons:

• Less durable with heavy daily use
• Minimal cushioning for hard floors
• Limited arch support

My Recommendation

I recommend MCRONJI barefoot water shoes for rowers who split time between water and erg. I found them useful, fast-drying, and tactile. For multi-environment athletes seeking the best shoes for rowing machine and boat work, these are a versatile option.

Best for	Why
On-water + erg	Drains and dries quickly
Lightweight travel	Compact and packable
Wet plate grip	Textured outsole resists slipping

Women’s Five Fingers Minimalist Shoes

These women’s five fingers minimalist shoes are tailored to a feminine fit and are perfect for detailed footwork. I wore them on prolonged rows and felt immediate improvement in plate feel. The toe separations allow stronger toe engagement and more even weight distribution during the drive. The thin sole gives great timing cues when pairing legs and core in the stroke. The upper is soft and comfortable, making longer sessions less irritating than some rugged barefoot models.

They also offer stable traction under damp conditions. The grip is good without interfering with the erg strap. I used them for circuits after erg rows and appreciated the barefoot-like stability for balance work. For women who want a direct connection to the footplate, these shoes are among the best shoes for rowing machine options that combine comfort with high sensory feedback.

Pros:

• Tailored feminine fit improves comfort
• Toe separation enhances engagement
• Thin sole provides direct feedback
• Soft upper reduces hot spots
• Good traction in damp conditions

Cons:

• Limited protection off the erg
• May require size trial for fit
• Less support for high-impact activity

My Recommendation

I recommend these women’s five-finger shoes for female rowers who want maximum pedal feedback. I found them comfortable and precise. They are a top consideration among the best shoes for rowing machine choices for women focused on feel and control.

Best for	Why
Female rowers	Fit designed for women’s feet
Balance work	Toe separation aids stability
Erg-focused training	Thin sole maximizes feedback

INZCOU Lightweight Non-Slip Shoes

The INZCOU lightweight non-slip shoes are a budget-friendly option that performs well on ergs. I tested them for intervals and found them surprisingly grippy on damp plates. The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool during longer rows. The cushioning is moderate, making them a comfortable choice for rowers who prefer a bit more softness. The outsole has a patterned grip that works without snagging the strap, and they feel light and responsive underfoot during quick-rate pieces.

For mixed gym days, they transitioned well between rowing and light conditioning. I appreciated the low price for a shoe that met rowing demands. While they lack the barefoot precision of five-finger styles, they give a reliable, affordable experience. If you need a budget pick among the best shoes for rowing machine, INZCOU offers good value and dependable grip for frequent training.

Pros:

• Affordable with good grip
• Lightweight and breathable
• Moderate cushioning for comfort
• Works well for mixed sessions
• Non-slip outsole for damp plates

Cons:

• Less tactile feedback than barefoot shoes
• Durability may be limited with heavy use
• Not specialized for lifting

My Recommendation

I recommend INZCOU lightweight non-slip shoes for rowers on a budget. I found them practical and reliable for erg sessions and mixed gym routines. They represent a sensible entry among the best shoes for rowing machine choices when price matters.

Best for	Why
Budget buyers	Good grip and comfort at a low price
Mixed routines	Comfortable cushion and breathability
Beginners	Easy to use and versatile

FAQs Of best shoes for rowing machine

What type of sole is best for rowing machines?

A thin, low-profile rubber sole is best. It gives footplate feedback and keeps ankle angles neutral. Choose micro-pattern traction for wet plates to avoid slipping but avoid aggressive treads that catch the strap.

Are barefoot or five-finger shoes safe for rowing?

Yes. Barefoot and five-finger shoes are safe and excellent for feel. Start slowly to adapt your feet and Achilles. If you lift heavy after rows, consider a firmer alternative for stability.

Should I use rowing shoes with arch support?

Mild arch support is fine, but excessive cushioning or arch structure can reduce plate feel. If you have specific foot conditions, use orthotics recommended by a podiatrist while keeping the sole low.

Can I use running shoes on a rowing machine?

You can, but running shoes often add unwanted height and cushion. That changes timing and can lead to instability. If you must use them, choose low-drop trainers with a thin sole.

How should the rowing strap fit over the shoe?

Strap it snug but not tight. It should hold the shoe without cutting circulation. The strap should sit across the midfoot or instep, not over the toes, for best drive transfer.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

Choosing among the best shoes for rowing machine depends on what you value most: feel, stability, or versatility. Barefoot and five-finger shoes give unmatched plate feedback. Low-drop, wider minimalist options offer comfort for longer pieces. Cross-trainers are ideal if you lift after erg sessions.

I recommend picking the style that matches your routine. If you row primarily, choose a barefoot option for better timing and connection. If you row and lift, pick a stable, low-profile cross-trainer that handles both demands.