SOLE vs. Spirit Rowers: Comparing Features, Pros, & Cons

Key Takeaways

• The SOLE SR550 offers a smooth and realistic rowing experience with air and magnetic resistance.
• The Spirit CRW800 has a higher weight capacity and longer parts warranty, but comes at a higher price.
• Both rowers fold vertically for easy storage and have front wheels for effortless movement.
• The SOLE SR550 includes a lifetime frame warranty and 2 years on parts, providing excellent value at a price point of $1,499.99.
• The Spirit CRW800 costs $1,699.00 and comes with a 10-year parts warranty.

SOLE vs Spirit Rower Comparison | Features, Pros & Cons

We’ll break down the key differences between the SOLE SR550 and the Spirit CRW800, covering the features, pros, and cons of each to help you decide which is the best fit for your workout.

At SOLE Fitness, we're proud to offer the best treadmills for your home or gym. These machines are crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and performance, ensuring they are ideal for anyone - from fitness novices to seasoned athletes. Featured Product SOLE SR550 Rowing Machine: Priced at $1,499.99, the SOLE SR550 rowing machine makes exercise more enjoyable with an ultra-smooth air and eddy current resistance motion to create a realistic 'on the water' sensation. With a 10.1-inch touch screen, built-in apps, and screen mirroring capabilities, this rower provides an immersive workout experience.

Resistance Type & Experience

Feature	SOLE SR550	Spirit CRW800
Resistance Range	16 levels	16 levels
Resistance Type	Air and eddy current (magnetic resistance)	Air and magnetic
Resistance Adjustments	Console and handlebar controls	Handlebar controls
Experience	Realistic rowing feel, smooth, adjustable	Dynamic air flow, smooth, adjustable

Why It Matters:
Resistance type affects how the rower feels, how intense the workout can get, and how quiet the machine is. If you plan to row regularly, you’ll want a machine that delivers a smooth, consistent feel—while also offering control over intensity.

Comparison:
The SOLE SR550 offers a realistic rowing experience thanks to its air and magnetic resistance combo. This mimics the sensation of rowing on water—adjusting to your rowing speed for a dynamic and immersive workout. With 16 levels of resistance, you can fine-tune your workout intensity either through the console or the handlebar controls.

The Spirit CRW800 also uses air and magnetic resistance with 16 levels. It has remote resistance adjustments on the handlebar, so it’s easy to change intensity without interrupting your rhythm.

Build Quality & Durability

The SOLE SR550 is made with an aluminum rail and steel frame combination—giving it a stable, solid feel during even the toughest workouts. With a weight capacity of 400 lbs, it’s built to accommodate a wide range of users.

The Spirit CRW800 offers similar durability with its steel frame and aluminum monorail, with a slightly higher user weight capacity of 450 lbs.

Comfort & Usability

Feature	SOLE SR550 Rower	Spirit CRW800
Seat Comfort	Ergonomic, high seating position for easy access, well-padded	Cushioned, oversized seat
Footrests	Adjustable pedals with flex settings	Flex pedals with adjustable settings
Handle Design	Ergonomic handle with resistance adjustment	Padded handle with remote resistance control
Console Display	10.1” touchscreen	5.5” LCD display
Additional Features	SOLE+ app, wireless speakers	Self-generating power

Why It Matters:
Comfort affects your overall performance and how long you can comfortably work out. Features like an ergonomic seat, intuitive footrests, and easy-to-use controls make your workout smoother.

Comparison:
The SOLE SR550 has a high, ergonomic seat that makes getting on and off easy. The adjustable foot pedals ensure a secure grip, and the wireless resistance control built into the handle lets you easily adjust the intensity mid-row without interruption. Plus, with the SOLE+ app and wireless speakers, you can stay connected and entertained while getting in shape.

The Spirit CRW800 offers a similar level of comfort with its oversized, cushioned seat. The flex pedals with adjustable numbered settings allow for a personalized fit. While the 5.5-inch LCD display is smaller compared to the SR550’s touchscreen, it still provides clear workout data.

Storage & Space

Feature	SOLE SR550 Rower	Spirit CRW800
Folding Capability	Folds and stores vertically, with front wheels for easy movement	Folds and stores vertically, with front wheels for easy movement
Footprint	97” L x 19” W x 52” H	94.1” L x 18.1” W x 38” H
Space Required	Minimal when stored vertically	Minimal when stored vertically

The SOLE SR550 and Spirit CRW800 are both designed for easy storage—they fold vertically and have wheels for effortless movement. While the SR550 has a slightly larger footprint when unfolded at 97” in length, it becomes highly compact once folded. The CRW800, with a footprint of 94.1” in length, offers similar space-saving convenience.

Price & Warranty

Feature	SOLE SR550 Rower	Spirit CRW800
Price	$1,499.99	$1,699.00
Warranty	Lifetime on frame, 2 years on parts	Lifetime on frame, 10 years on parts

The SOLE SR550—priced at $1,499.99—is a great value for a high-performance rowing machine. We offer a lifetime warranty on the frame and 2 years on parts.

The Spirit CRW800 is more expensive at $1,699.00, but it also comes with a lifetime frame warranty, plus a 10-year parts warranty.

Which Rower Fits Your Needs?

The SOLE SR550 offers an immersive, connected experience with advanced tech and a realistic rowing feel at a competitive price. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a machine with modern features, app integration, and a comfortable, ergonomic design.

On the other hand, the Spirit CRW800 has a higher weight capacity and a longer parts warranty—but it’s slightly more expensive.

Find Your Perfect Rower with SOLE

At SOLE, we’re committed to delivering quality fitness equipment that fits your needs. The SOLE SR550 is a great choice for anyone who wants a gym-quality workout without the premium price tag. With our lifetime frame warranty and advanced features like wireless resistance control, you’re getting excellent value for your money!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which rower provides a more realistic rowing experience?
The SOLE SR550 offers a realistic rowing experience thanks to its combo of air and magnetic resistance, which mimics the sensation of rowing on water. The Spirit CRW800 also uses air and magnetic resistance, offering a similar dynamic flow but with fewer high-tech features.

Which rowing machine is easier to store in a small space?
Both the SOLE SR550 and Spirit CRW800 fold vertically and are equipped with front wheels for easy movement.

What is the price difference between the SOLE SR550 and Spirit CRW800?
The SOLE SR550 is priced at $1,499.99, while the Spirit CRW800 costs $1,699.00.

Do either of the rowers offer tech features like app integration?
The SOLE SR550 includes advanced tech features such as a 10.1” touchscreen, SOLE+ app integration, and built-in wireless speakers. The Spirit CRW800 does not include app integration or these high-tech features.