Adaptive & Para Rowing (On Water)

Rowing is for everyone. Whether you’re new to the sport or transitioning from indoor to on‑water, there is a boat class and setup to suit a wide range of abilities. For classification criteria and indoor adaptations, please visit: Adaptive Classifications and Adapting the Indoor Rower.

Boat Classes (What You’ll See on the Water)

World Rowing recognizes three sport classes (PR1, PR2, PR3). Here’s how that translates to boats and on‑water setup. For eligibility/classification specifics, please use the links above.

PR1 (Arms & Shoulders emphasis) — Single Sculls (PR1 M1x, PR1 W1x)

Seat/Strapping: Fixed seat with defined strapping; limited trunk movement.
Stability: Pontoons required by rule.
Where you’ll see it: World Rowing and Paralympic programs.

PR2 (Trunk & Arms) — Singles (PR2 M/W 1x*) and Mixed Double (PR2 Mix2x)

Seat/Strapping: Fixed seat; trunk movement used; no sliding seat.
Stability: Pontoons may be fitted depending on athlete/conditions.
Where you’ll see it: Singles feature at World Championships; the Mixed Double is a Paralympic event.

PR3 (Legs, Trunk & Arms) — Mixed Double (PR3 Mix2x) and Mixed Coxed Four (PR3 Mix4+); some pairs at Worlds

Seat/Strapping: Standard sliding‑seat boats, similar to able‑bodied rowing.
Stability: Typically no pontoons; standard shells.
Where you’ll see it: Mix2x and Mix4+ are Paralympic events; M2‑/W2‑ compete at Worlds.

* PR2 M/W singles are World Rowing events (not currently Paralympic).

How Para/Adaptive Rowing Differs from Able‑Bodied Rowing (at a glance)

Boats & Seats: Para racing uses the same racing distances and shared regatta environment as able‑bodied rowing, but some classes use fixed seats and mandatory strapping; others use standard sliding‑seat boats. These requirements are set by World Rowing and vary by PR1/PR2/PR3.
Stability (Pontoons): Certain classes (PR1) require stabilizing pontoons; PR2 may use them based on athlete needs and conditions. Pontoons increase stability but are not a fail‑safe, so crews should still practice capsize and assisted recovery.
Strapping & Support: Strapping and postural supports provide stability (not restraint) and must allow quick release and safe egress, following World Rowing regulations.
Coxswains & Integration: The PR3 Mixed Coxed Four includes a coxswain (who may or may not have an impairment) and races alongside other World Rowing events; since 2017, para events race 2000 m, the same distance as Olympic boat classes.

Oar Setup in Adaptive Rowing

Oar setup for adaptive and para rowing is often more individualized than in able‑bodied rowing. Because athletes may have different ranges of motion, strength profiles, or asymmetries, the rigging and oar specifications need to reflect those unique requirements.
In fixed‑seat rowing, for example, the stroke arc is shorter and the hands often do not overlap in the stroke. This affects inboard/outboard measurements, handle spacing, and sometimes blade choice to ensure efficient loading. The resulting oar is significantly shorter than slide seat rowing.
Getting this right is critical for both performance and comfort. For detailed rigging advice and to discuss custom oar options please get in touch.

Getting Started on the Water

Try a Session: Your local club can arrange a supported session that matches your mobility and goals (fixed or sliding seat; with or without pontoons). Ask about assisted launches and safety launch escort for early outings.
Choose a Boat Class Pathway: You don’t need to know your sport class to learn on the water. If you later choose to race, your club/National Federation can guide you through classification and event options.

Use the US Rowing Club finder to find your nearest club.

How Concept2 Can Help

For more information or specific rigging advice, please see the resources below. At Concept2, we produce custom oars for every customer, working with you to find a setup that fits your range of motion, stroke arc, and performance goals. Our goal is to ensure your equipment works for you, whether you’re training, racing, or just getting started.