Oarlocks
What Are Oarlocks and Why Do They Matter?
Oarlocks — sometimes called rowlocks — are the small but essential pivot points that hold oars securely to the gunwale of a rowboat, dinghy, tender, or any human-powered watercraft. Without a reliable oarlock, rowing efficiently and safely becomes nearly impossible. These fittings transfer the mechanical effort of each stroke directly into forward motion, acting as the fulcrum of the entire rowing system. Whether you're navigating a calm lake, rowing a tender out to an anchored sailboat, or paddling a jon boat through shallow marshes, a properly sized and well-mounted oarlock makes all the difference.
Types of Oarlocks and What to Look For
Oarlocks come in several configurations, each suited to different rowing styles and boat designs. The most common type is the U-shaped horn oarlock (also called a swivel oarlock or gate oarlock), which cradles the oar from the sides and allows it to pivot freely through each stroke. Ring-style and pin-and-clip designs offer alternatives for specific applications. When selecting an oarlock, consider the following:
- Material: Oarlocks are typically made from chrome-plated bronze, stainless steel, or heavy-duty nylon. Bronze and stainless options offer superior corrosion resistance in saltwater environments, while nylon variants are lightweight and budget-friendly for freshwater use.
- Socket compatibility: Oarlocks are paired with oarlock sockets (also called rowing gates or oarlock plates) that mount to the gunwale. Always match the oarlock shank diameter and length to your existing socket hardware.
- Oar diameter: The throat opening of the oarlock must accommodate the diameter of your oar shaft. A too-loose fit causes sloppy strokes; a too-tight fit creates friction and fatigue.
- Swivel vs. fixed: Swivel oarlocks pivot freely in the socket for smoother feathering of the blade, while fixed styles provide a more rigid connection suited to heavier workloads.
Top Oarlock Brands
Perko is a longstanding name in marine hardware with a reputation built on quality castings and corrosion-resistant finishes. Their oarlocks are a trusted choice for boaters who demand durability in both fresh and saltwater conditions.
Sea-Dog Line has been supplying the marine industry with dependable deck hardware for decades. Their oarlock offerings reflect the brand's commitment to practical, well-engineered fittings that hold up to regular use on working boats and recreational watercraft alike.
Springfield Marine brings the same attention to detail found in their broader marine seating and accessory lineup to their oarlock hardware, making them a solid option for boaters looking for consistent quality across their vessel's fittings.
Seachoice is known for offering a wide range of marine accessories that deliver reliable performance at accessible price points — a practical pick for weekend boaters and those equipping smaller tenders or dinghies.
Keeping Your Oarlocks in Good Shape
After each outing, rinse oarlocks with fresh water to remove salt, grit, and debris that can cause corrosion or binding. Periodically inspect the socket for play or wobble, and apply a light marine grease to the shank to keep the pivot action smooth. Replacing worn oarlocks before they fail is far easier than being caught without a functional rowing setup on the water.