The Sole F 63 treadmill is Sole's most affordable model and it's one of the most popular treadmills under $1000 right now.
Sole treadmills have been used by high end hotels like Hilton for years. They have recently made their treadmills available to the home treadmill market.
Is the Sole F63 right for you? Here's a quick review to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $999.99
Motor: 2.5 HP (Continuous Duty)
Speed: 1 - 10 MPH
Incline: 0-15%
Treadbelt: 20 x 55"
Folding: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Hand Grip Pulse Monitor (with Wireless Chest Strap included)
User Weight Capacity: 325 lbs
Warranty: Lifetime Motor & Frame, 3 years on Deck, Electronics, Belt and Rollers, 1 year Labor
Strengths:
1) Built with High Quality Components For A Longer Treadmill Life - Sole has a reputation for using high quality components in their treadmills like high torque motors with flywheels to keep the motor cool and extend the life of your treadmill.
The F63 also uses large 2.5" rollers for static free motion and a longer belt life. It also has a higher user weight capacity than most treadmills under $1000 - a whopping 325 lbs, which means a more stable machine.
2) Strong, Stable Design for Shake-Free Running or Walking - Sole treadmills in general feel very strong and stable when you walk or run on them. When we compared them to several other department store brands at similar price points, they just feel stronger - especially when you start to run.
3) Speed and Incline Controls on Arm Rests For Handy On-The-Fly Adjustments - With this feature, you can change your speed or incline with the touch of a button on the arm rests instead of reaching up to the console.
This comes in handy, especially when you pick up your pace and don't want to reach up to the console which can throw off your stride.
4) 15% Incline For Higher Calorie Burning Intervals - While many $1500 treadmills will give you 15% incline, most treadmills under $1000 will only give you 10-12% inclines. If you're someone who really likes to build in maximum calorie burning intervals, being able to go up to 15% is a great option to have.
5) Listen To Your iPod / Mp3 While Working Out - You can plug in your mp3 and listen to your favorite music or audiobook through the built in console speakers. There's also a headphone jack if you prefer (which many treadmills don't offer). This is a great feature that can make your workout time a lot more enjoyable.
6) Bright Blue Display Makes It Easy To Track Your Workout Stats - While it's not Sole's most advanced unit, the F63 uses a bight blue console display that constantly shows your speed, incline, time, distance traveled, calories burned, heart rate and pace. There's also a 1/4 mile track feature that many people like to use.
6) Excellent Warranty To Protect Your Investment - The F63 comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, 3 years on deck, electronics and rollers and 1 year on labor.
While the higher end Sole models have an even better warranty, at this price point, this is still one of the best warranties out there and gives you some peace of mind about your investment.
Weaknesses:
While the Sole F63 treadmill is an excellent value under $1000, it is still an entry level treadmill. It doesn't have the highly rated Cushion Flex cushioning (reduces impact by 40% compared to road running) that the higher end Sole models have.
Plus the deck is solid but still not as strong as the higher end Sole's Whisper Decks and only covered under warranty for 3 years instead of a lifetime.
Runners and frequent exercisers will probably want to upgrade to the Sole F80 or higher models.
Overall Conclusion: Recommended
Although the Sole F63 treadmill doesn't offer the workout luxuries or high end cushioning of the more advanced Sole models, it is still one of the best treadmill values for under $1000.
You get a strong motor covered by a lifetime motor warranty, bright, attractive console, large walking area, high 15% incline, strong deck and excellent warranty. The speed and incline controls on the arm rests are a unique feature that many buyers like. Plus the built in speakers with iPod/mp3 hookup are very popular right now and can help make your workouts more enjoyable.
Plus Sole is currently including a Free wireless heart rate chest strap (in addition to the hand grip pulse monitors) to stay in your target heart rate zone. Another thing you don't usually get at this price point.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the F63 direct from the Manufacturer. They're currently offering Free Shipping and you also save on sales tax which can save you a few hundred dollars.