Hydrow, the connected at-home rowing system, has secured $25 million in financing led by L Catterton, the private equity firm. The fundraising also includes support from the brand’s other existing investors including Rx3 Ventures (Co-founded by Greenbay Packers Quarterback Aaron Rodgers). This extension will bring the total capital raised to $52 million.

Following a nationwide launch that shipped in spring 2019, Hydrow is the only connected fitness player that brings Hydrow’s patent-protected, Live Outdoor Reality (LOR) directly to consumers. With instruction from world-class athletes streaming live on the water in cities such as Miami, London and San Francisco, Hydrow makes the experience of on-water rowing accessible to viewers. With consumers relying heavily on connected fitness during the pandemic, Hydrow has continued to gain momentum with sales of over 400 percent and has further accelerated the adoption of an immersive full-body workout.

“We’re excited to announce the continued support of L Catterton as we deliver a powerful and unique experience to consumers,” said Bruce Smith, CEO and founder of Hydrow. “We started Hydrow with the mission of enhancing lives by bringing the soul-enriching sport of rowing to homes around the world. The accelerated demand we’ve seen in recent months has further validated the positive trend toward connected fitness and the increasing adoption of rowing.”

“Hydrow’s industry-leading consumer engagement is unmatched, and we see an incredible growth opportunity as a result of its ability to deliver a superior and more efficient workout at home,” said Michael Farello, managing partner at L Catterton. “We’re pleased to have the opportunity to assist Hydrow in further extending its position as a leader in the rapidly growing connected fitness industry.”

Hydrow’s latest round of funding will focus on the following key business areas:

  • Content Expansion — with an extensive library of live and on-demand classes, Hydrow is expanding both its core rowing content as well as on the mat functional movement workouts for a whole-body workout at home; and
  • Increased Marketing Outreach — Hydrow will increase its sales and marketing initiatives nationwide and work with its base users to share the Hydrow experience with new customers.

Photo courtesy Hydrow