The Hands Behind the Oars

Long before a pair of Concept2 oars touch the water, they begin in the hands of our skilled Concept2 team members. This alliance of seasoned, steady, and deeply committed team members all have one goal in mind; make the sport of rowing better by making and supporting the best oars possible for our customers.  

Inside our Vermont headquarters each oar is built to order. They are created and assembled by team members whose combined experience stretches beyond 120 years. That depth of knowledge isn’t just impressive; it’s felt in every stroke an athlete takes when race day comes. We aren’t just manufacturers though; we are master craftspeople. Every shaft, every blade, every carefully selected material reflects decades of refinement and a relentless pursuit of the best performance possible. For more than 50 years, Concept2 has pushed innovation forward by developing oars that are lighter and stronger. But innovation alone doesn’t define Concept2 or our oars; it’s the human touch behind it that makes all the difference.  

There is a quiet pride that runs through our team. It shows up in the details. The precision of assembly, the consistency of testing and retesting the product, and the understanding that what we build will become an extension of someone’s effort on the water. An oar is not just equipment; it’s a connection between athlete and performance. Our team knows that, and they build accordingly. What makes our work even more meaningful is the impact it has beyond the oar shop floor. Each oar reaches a rower somewhere. Whether it’s a beginner learning their first stroke, a college crew chasing speed, or an elite athlete competing on the world stage. We understand that our work helps others pursue goals, find discipline, and experience the rhythm and teamwork that defines the sport or rowing. 

But the connection between us as craftspeople and the oars we create doesn’t stop once they leave the oar shop floor in Vermont. Many members of our team also help provide free regatta service all over the world. We show up early, stay late, and ensure that athletes have the equipment and support they need to perform at their best. From swapping handles and sleeves, to repairing damaged blades, the regatta service team wants to see our customers succeed. It’s a continuation of the same pride and care we bring to the workbench, now applied directly alongside the rowing community. 

This dual role as builder and supporter speaks to something deeper about the culture at Concept2 though. It’s not just about making the best oars possible; it’s about being part of the sport itself. We are invested in the athletes who use our products, the races where our oars are used, and the communities that grow around our oars. 

At its core, this is what makes Concept2, Concept2. Precision engineering, innovative design, and top-tier materials all play a role, but they are guided by experienced hands and a shared purpose. The result is a product that not only performs at the highest level, but carries with it our pride, dedication and passion. To be part of this team is to carry forward a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation; one pair of hands and one oar at a time.

Watch the video below to learn more about The Hands Behind the Oars at Concept2.