The Sole brand’s first treadmills were commercial fitness machines. The manufacturer has always relied on top-notch parts, and this extends to its simpler Sole F80 home treadmill. This machine is great for walkers. Runners should consider the next model up, the F85 treadmill.
Where Can I Buy This?
This treadmill can be purchased directly from the manufacturer’s website at SoleTreadmills.com
What We Like
High-quality parts: Sole home treadmills include many commercial-grade components. These help support the user’s health and extend the life of the machine.
Motor: The F80 has a 3.0 HP motor that can support a user weighing up to 350 pounds. The motor is cooled by heavy-duty flywheels and is surprisingly quiet.
Track: The Sole F80 has a durable two-ply track. The 55”x20” workout area is large enough for most runners. The track also inclines by 15%, which is more than many treadmills offer. By working out on an incline, a user can burn calories much more efficiently. Furthermore, the treadmill’s CushionFlex technology has been proven to reduce joint impact by up to 40% when compared with road running. This exceeds the impact reduction offered by many other brands.
Audio: The F80 has built-in speakers that can play music from your iPod or other MP3 player.
Compact design: The F80 can be folded to save space, but a unique horseshoe design helps make the unit very sturdy.
Warranties: Sole warranties are among the best in the business. The F80 includes a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, a five-year warranty on electronics and parts, and one year of labor.
Extras: Unlike the Sole F63, the F80 has a wireless heart rate monitor. A built-in console fan helps users extend their exercise time, and incline and speed controls are built into the armrests.
What We Don’t Like
Belt length: The 55” track is too short for some users.
Workout variety: The F80 has a limited number of workout programs: six standard programs, two heart rate programs, and two user-defined programs.
Our Verdict
Sole treadmills are highly recommended, and the F80 is an excellent value when bought on sale. Its commercial-grade motor and cushioned track can support many years of use, and many users will be sufficiently entertained by the MP3 player. The wireless heart monitor is also a nice feature.
Note that this machine is intended for people who don’t need advanced workout programs; it has just ten programs and isn’t wired for iFit service.
Where Can I Buy This?
The Sole F80 Treadmill can be purchased directly from the manufacturer’s website at SoleTreadmills.com
