Sole F63 Review – Pros & Cons (2024)

Editor's Rating: 9.4 /10

The Sole F63 remains one of the highest-quality, basic folding treadmills under $1,200 on the market. Based on what I’ve heard from friends, family, and readers alike, this model really hits one of those sweet spots in terms of both price and performance. Although it’s the simplest model in Sole’s current lineup, it still bags nearly five stars (4.5 to be exact) in my review. The fact you’re looking at a sub-$1,200 treadmill with a 60″ long track as opposed to 55″ is a rare thing these days, not to mention built-in workout programs and 15% incline. And then there’s the lifetime warranty on the frame and motor which trumps the 5- to 10-year guarantees typically offered by competitors. 

One of the things I’ve come to really like about the Sole lineup is the ability to sync with the cost-free Sole+ Fitness App, as well as their built-in programs. I’m finding fewer treadmills coming out these days with built-in programs and free workout apps, as this is always a plus to me. If you’re shopping around treadmills right now, be sure to read our Five Step Buying Guide to get the skinny on what to check. You can also read up on my articles here about decks, motors, rollers, and belts, to help see why we think so highly of the Sole F63. The premium parts involved do make a difference.

Why You Should Trust Our Review Of The Sole F63

At TreadmillReviews.net, we bring you comprehensive reviews of treadmills so you can decide which one is right for you. Our staff thoroughly test all the treadmills we review. We install them, walk on them, run on them, and try out all of the features. We get to know each and every treadmill we review extremely well. Our reviewers log miles on the deck. We listen and record the sound of the motor, we test and measure the incline/decline, try out all aspects of the console and try the treadmill’s features.

Every treadmill we review undergoes the same rigorous process. That way we can compare and contrast them and give you an honest review of what we think. This particular treadmill has been around for many years, and we’ve done previous reviews of the Sole F63.

Our reviewers are treadmill and fitness experts. Brian, the author of this review, is a competitive bodybuilder, and is a 7-time national qualifier in both men’s bodybuilding and classic physique within the NPC competitions. He has coached and been coached on cardiovascular training, HIIT, and nutrition, particularly as it pertains to weight loss for competitions. He is an expert at treadmills, has been on this treadmill, and you can trust his opinion on all of the treadmills he reviews.

In Brief

Recently enhanced, the F63 folding treadmill features a 60-inch running surface, a 3.0 CHP motor and an upgraded console with seven training programs. Its powder coated steel frame is built to hold steady at the track’s top speed of 12 mph and 15% incline. As a bodybuilder who regularly cuts bodyfat for shows, I’d say the speed and incline offered here are two of the better features. To achieve fat loss one must increase the caloric burn yes, but for continued improvement an increase in one’s metabolism is also crucial. An incline of 15% means one can significantly spike this by way of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), proven to be a winner in the arena of fat loss. The treadmill is equipped with a fan, although it’s not as high-speed as other models. Positioned at the top of the console, the vents can’t be moved downward and this might be inconvenient depending on the user’s height. 

Workout progress is shown on a 6.5-inch LCD which can be integrated with the Sole+ Fitness app for wireless tracking and fitness stats sharing. The treadmill is also equipped with an integrated tablet holder for users to bring their own screen, or as I prefer to do, park it in front of a smart television. The machine is Bluetooth-enabled for both heart rate training and entertainment, which at this price is a big plus. The Sole+ app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, so whatever tech you own, you can view your progress on your mobile in real time. What’s more, the Sole+ app can communicate with other apps such as FitBit and MyFitnessPal so you can continue using whatever programs you’re familiar with and store all of your workout history in one location. As for extra features, the F63 also includes an integrated tablet holder, Bluetooth audio speakers, and a USB charging port. It’s 325-pound weight maximum also means the treadmill is good to go for most everyone.

The F63’s $1,199.99 sale price includes a competitive warranty offering lifetime coverage for the frame and motor; three years for the parts, deck, and electronics; and one year of labor. It must be noted that lifetime warranty is a huge plus in my book. Recently we’ve seen a trend toward shorter warranties and I’m glad to see Sole is sticking by its products. For a list of our Best Folding Treadmills see our review.

PROS
  • Very budget-friendly at $1,199
  • Lifetime warranty on the frame and motor
  • 15 levels of incline
  • Syncs with the cost-free Sole+ Fitness App
CONS
  • In-home assembly costs

Sole F63 Treadmill – Pros & Cons (2024) - Key Specs:

Star Rating:4.7-stars
Motor:3.0 HP
Incline:0 to 15%
Running Area:20" x 60"
Folding:Yes
Top Speed:12 MPH
Weight Capacity:325 LBS
Dimensions:77" L x 35" W x 66" H
Built-In Programs:7

In-Depth Review of the Sole F63

Why We Like It

The Sole F63 is a great, all-round, lower-cost model that doesn’t sacrifice quality. If you’re not into big, flashy high-definition screens and want the liberty of choosing your own programs, this is it. The machine comes with built-in workouts which include the fitness tests for the U.S. Armed Services, as well as a great media shelf for you to attach either a tablet or smartphone. Definitely a bring-your-own-screen model, it still offers a stellar 15% incline, which I have yet to see fail a fitness fan. Combined with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, you can figure this machine will last. And at a price of $1,199, you really can’t find much better.

Top Quality Parts

Sole Fitness home treadmills are some of the very best in the industry. Rather than putting a lot of time and energy into the ‘extras’ in an attempt to set themselves apart from other brands, they focus solely on the basics, ensuring they are the absolute best there is. Getting the basics right is often even more beneficial than fine-tuning the ‘extras’ because these foundations can determine whether or not the treadmill stands up over the long haul. This Sole F63 features 2.36″ rear rollers and 1.8″ front rollers. I’m intrigued by that design as it differs from the norm, which is having the same size rollers both front and back. That said, it does make sense to me that most of the weight and impact on a treadmill is in the front, near the 3.0 HP motor, and thus you’d want the size there. Its 3.0 CHP motor is kept cool by heavy-duty flywheels which help to ensure durability, possibly even more so than models with larger motors. Sole’s commitment to quality is manifest in its lifetime warranty on both the frame and motor.

Sole F63 treadmill closeup of deck

The deck of the Sole F63 measures 60″L x 20″W. (Screenshot from our Youtube Channel)

Power Incline

The F63 offers a 15% incline, giving you the option to intensify your workouts and help burn fat and calories faster than ever before. The feature works whether you’re running or walking, adding an extra layer of programming options to each and every workout. The machine inclines quietly and control panels are located on the handlebars as well as the console. I’m a big fan of incline-based workouts. It’s the easiest way to increase resistance without relying on speed and time. Want a quick way to spike the heart rate? Just manipulate the incline up to 15% in increments of 5% and then back down again. Irrespective of the speed utilized, you’ll break a sweat in a manner of minutes. And with a top speed of 12mph, there’s no question you won’t outgrow this unit.

Side profile of the Sole F63 treadmill on incline

Reach an incline of 15% to up-level your workouts. (Screenshot from our Youtube Channel)

Built-In Workouts and Free App

I really like the fact you can simply buy the Sole F63 and go. With a lot of competitors out there, you’ll have to lock yourself into a paid app subscription or perhaps bring your own screen. With the Sole F63, you’ll get seven pre-programmed workout routines, two user-defined. It also syncs with the Sole+ Fitness App which brings along a library of thousands of on-demand programs. The Sole+ Fitness App is cost-free. The treadmill is has heart rate monitoring by way of handlebar sensors, as well as Bluetooth which can be used for both cardio monitoring as well as speakers. I’ve found that treadmill shoppers fit into two camps, they are want a big flashy high-definition screen with virtual programming, or they don’t. If you’re in the group which just wants to get on the treadmill and exercise, the Sole F63 is built with you in mind.

LCD display screen close-up on the Sole F63 treadmill

Keep track of your workout progress with the easy to use LCD display. (Screenshot from our Youtube Channel)

Very User-Friendly Console

Whether you’re a senior citizen or perhaps the parent of a middle school athlete, you won’t have to worry about complicated instructions with the Sole F63. My nephew runs cross-country at his middle school and he hopped aboard this and just intuitively knew what to do. I’ve found the same to be true with my own father who is in his late 70s. The 6.5″ backlit LCD screen is easy to view and use, and the speed and incline adjustments are easy to use as they’re right there by your hands. Whether you access the Sole+ Fitness App or just use the built-in programs, there’s no learning curve here.

Close-up of the various programs available on the Sole F63 treadmill

Customize your workout at the push of a button. (Screenshot from our Youtube Channel)

Compact, Folding Design

The treadmill’s Cushion Flex Whisper Deck helps to minimize joint pain by lessening joint impact on the treadmill. In fact, the feature has been shown to help lessen joint impact by 35-45% in comparison to running on pavement. Meanwhile, the treadmill itself is relatively light at 224 pounds, yet sports a 325-pound weight capacity. I typically use the weight capacity as an indicator of overall stability. Measuring 77″ x 35″ 67″ it’s a nice sized home treadmill and has an 8″ step-up height, so be sure to add that to your own height when figuring ceiling needs. Free advice from someone who’s moved a few of these, the width of your doors will need to be wide enough to accommodate the unit. The great news is this is a folding unit, and I can’t go on enough about that. Folding treadmills are just so much easier to lubricate and clean because you can pop them up with the touch of a finger. I’ve found this unit to fold up and down easily without struggle.

The Sole F63 treadmill folded in an upright position

The Sole F63 has a compact footprint when folded, making it easy to store if you’re short on space. (Screenshot from our Youtube Channel)

See Our Video Review Of The Sole F63

What We Don’t Like:

  • Costly Assembly: It’s not rocket science assembling a Sole F63, but you’ll need some help for sure. This is true for most treadmills. Keep in mind the deck is rock solid and 77″ long. Sole offers room of choice delivery, as opposed to at the door, for $199, and room of choice assembly for $350. If you don’t have any help, that might be necessary.
  • Slow Acceleration: Older versions of this treadmill were sometimes slow to accelerate.
  • 1-Ply Belt: The machine now comes with a 1-ply belt instead of a 2-ply. If you plan on heavy usage, plan on lubricating it frequently, or you might want to go online and buy a 2-ply belt.

I Recommend this Treadmill For You If:

  • You’re looking for a budget-friendly treadmill priced under $1,200.
  • You’re new to exercising at home and want a simple but high-quality treadmill to get you started.
  • You’re looking for a lifetime product warranty.
  • High-quality, durable treadmill basics mean more to you than luxury extras. 

My Final Verdict:

At $1,199.99 with a generous warranty, the Sole F63 is an excellent, budget-friendly choice for at-home cardio training. The commercial-grade motor and cushioned track can support many years of reliable and comfortable use, as well as now accommodating for taller users with its updated, longer track. The combination of a low price, durable components and Sole’s great customer service explains why the F63 is one of the brand’s most popular treadmills year after year.

I’d strongly recommend this machine for anyone seeking a tool to burn calories. With a 325-pound weight maximum, just about anyone can strap on a weighted vest and significantly increase their load. If you’re looking for a comparably priced treadmill with a larger screen I’d recommend checking out the ProForm Trainer 14.0 and the Horizon 7.0AT as reference points.

TreadmillPriceMotorIncline/DeclineDeck
ProForm Trainer 14.03-Year iFit Contract ($1,404)3.012%20″ x 60″
Horizon 7.0AT$9993.015%20″ x 60″
Bowflex BXT8J$1,1992.515%20″ x 60″

Check Price

Curious about Sole’s higher-level treadmills? Check out the Sole F80 Folding Treadmill.

Sole F63 Giveaway

Update: Congratulations to Dawn C. from Michigan, the winner of our Sole F63 Giveaway!

What’s New for 2023:

  • The machine has been streamlined down a few inches in terms of length, width, and height, making it more compact.
  • The Bluetooth features have been upgraded to BLE 3.0 Audio-enabled, BLE 5.0, and it now supports Sole+ Apps.

What’s New for 2022:

  • An integrated tablet holder has been built into the machine’s console. If the 6.5-inch LCD screen isn’t sufficient, runners can always affix a tablet or phone to the console and incorporate any number of apps or streaming services while they run. This opens up the entertainment options considerably. This also allows for a more diverse array of app usage as one is not locked into a specific program when using their own screen.
  • The new model also brings Bluetooth Audio Speakers, meaning music or other sound from streaming devices is much more accessible.
  • The new year also brings a USB port to the machine, which is a critical addition to keep devices attached to the tablet holder running during long sessions.

About the Author

Brian Boyce is an 8X national qualifier in NPC Men’s Bodybuilding and Classic Physique. In addition to bodybuilding, he competes in sanctioned powerlifting meets as well as strongman events. Brian has tested and reviewed numerous products in his own home gym outfitted with commercial equipment on his farm.

Recent Updates

  • March 25, 2024: Updated price and specs.
  • November 7, 2023: Updated price and specs.
  • May 9, 2023: Updated price and specs.
  • October 4, 2022: Updated price as per the manufacturer’s website. Added original photography from test-run. More FAQs have been included.
  • July 13, 2021: Added some FAQs to the page.

Sole F63 FAQs

How much does a Sole F63 treadmill weigh?

A Sole F63 treadmill weighs 224 lbs. The model also has a maximum weight capacity of 325 lbs.

Does the Sole F63 treadmill fold?

Yes, the Sole F63 is a foldable treadmill. It safely locks into an upright position with Sole’s Easy Assist Folding Deck Design which helps you to fold and unfold your treadmill.

Is the Sole F63 easy to assemble and disassemble?

Sole provides a range of videos on their site to help with the assembly of their machines, as well as how to maintain and clean your Sole treadmill. Alternatively, customers can pay $350 for full assembly by the delivery company.

Is the Sole F63 a noisy treadmill?

All treadmills emit some level of noise, but whether it's a problem or not is typically up to the user. The Sole F63 has been measured around 70 decibel level, which is comparable to a car at idle.