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 uses high quality components in their treadmill construction 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 you get a more stable feeling machine.
2) Speed and Incline Controls on Arm Rests
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.
3) 15% Incline For Higher Calorie Burning Intervals
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.
4) 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.
5) 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 to keep track of their progress.
6) Cooling Fan In Console
There's a cooling fan in the console which will help keep you cool while you workout. While it's a little thing - it still helps to add comfort to your workout.
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 like the Sole F80 or Sole F85 treadmills 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.
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 2.5 HP motor covered by a lifetime motor warranty, bright, attractive console, 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.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can get the new Sole F63 model direct from the Manufacturer. They're currently offering Free Shipping to your home and you'll also save money on sales tax.
