Some treadmill brands have unique strengthsin certain areas like warranty and/or stability.
We've listed our picks for best treadmill manufacturers below. We've also tried to highlight where we think their strengths are so you can make a decision that's best for your fitness equipment needs.
Although relatively new to the home treadmill field, Sole isn't really new at all. They have over 20 years experience manufacturing commercial grade treadmills for hotels for in room fitness.
(Sole Treadmills are used exclusively by Hilton and Omni hotels worldwide for In Room Fitness).
They have recently made their treadmills available to the home treadmill market (starting from $999) and are collecting impressive reviews.
We particularly like the Sole warrantyas well, which covers the deck and frame for a lifetime, the motor fora lifetime (even on the $1499 models) and the electronics, belt, rollers for 5 years. You also get 2 years warranty on labor - which is rare and can save you a lot of money. Most treadmills, even high quality ones, will only cover the labor for 1 year.
If you're looking for a commercial grade treadmill for a home treadmill price you really can't go wrong with a Sole.
Strengths:Affordable Options, Excellent Workout Tools, Excellent Overall Value
Brand Review:
Nordic Track treadmills offer some of the most affordable treadmill options on the market. Plus the new Nordic Track models offer substantial improvements over old models.
They've also improved their motors, warranties and even added lots of workout 'goodies' like built-in TVs, speakers, mp3 docking stations, personal trainer workout programs and more.
Nordic Track treadmills are also very affordable for the home gym on a budget and are even pulling in some high expert reviews.
Nordic Track is owned and operated by ICON health and fitness - the largest fitness equipment maker in the world. They also own brands like Proform, Image, Reebok and Epic. However we think that their Nordic Track line is probably their best treadmill brand in terms of value and quality.
And if you're looking to be entertained these treadmills do not disappoint. You can get goodies like built-in TVs and built-in speakers that you only usually find in commercial, health club $4000+ treadmills. So to get these things in a treadmill around $1200 or under is a huge benefit.
Smooth Fitness was the first treadmill manufacturer to sell direct to consumers online. The've been in the fitness equipment business for over 20 years and selling on the Internet for over 8 years.
Their website is one of the best we've seen - extremely well laid out, easy to navigate and includes lots of high quality pictures describing their products.
There's always a sale going on and they let you read opinions from customers who have bought a Smooth Treadmill as well as expert reviews like Runner's World, Prevention Magazine and others.
Their service is excellent, with most items being shipped within 2 business days. Their 'Customer Service' section is detailed and it's easy to find what you need. They include phone numbers, fax numbers, addresses and e-mails. No chasing these guys if you have a problem!
Smooth Treadmills themselves are consistently being rated in the top class of home treadmills, with particular emphasis on theirstability, quiet operation and value. They've also recently opened up a customer rating system where former buyers can rate their Smooth treadmills - which is helpful to new treadmill shoppers.
Because Smooth Treadmills are sold exclusively online this saves store overhead costs and you can typically get a higher quality treadmill for a lower price (Smooth boasts a 40-45% factory direct savings)
