I thought I'd mention a great USA made product I've been using - New Grips - they basically save your hands from blistering - especially if you have some time away from rowing then come back (as I did with my 4 week trip to UK). 

They are at http://www.newgrip.com/rowing_gloves_oars.html, are very reasonable and they have great customer service. I tried them at first and they felt a bit awkward. If you get some, once they have been used a few times, the neoprene conforms to the grips and everything feels much better.

I have no connection with these guys apart from being a happy customer.

Temptation.. temptation... ok, I was in UK and spotted one on Row2K not far from where I live. Got extremely excited about it - reading everything I could - the ideal next boat! 

However when I got back to the US I measured my boathouse/garage and the Maas would only fit diagonally! I'd only just be able to open the door if it were in there. 

Rats.. Still the seller was kind enough to show me around the Sarasota Rowing Club and I got to actually try and lift it. It was extremely unwieldy with a fragile fin and no handholds - really a two man job to be safe (especially in a wind). And, although it was only 38lbs, I found it much harder to pick up. So, I'm kind of glad it was too long. Back to the Edon :-)