For those who prefer dependability over cutting-edge technology, the Sole F63 is a straightforward but robust home treadmill.
The best treadmill under $1000 is the Sole F63. For runners and walkers, the F63 is a fantastic treadmill. The treadmills that Sole consistently produces are straightforward, high-quality, and have a large weight capacity. The Sole F63 weighs only 254 lbs, but it has a 325 lb weight capacity, which is much higher than that of other treadmills in this price range. When not in use, it folds up and can be rolled out of the way.
Keep reading to learn more about Sole F63.
Pros and Cons of Sole F63 Treadmill
Pros:
• Sturdy frame with a long 20″ by 60″ deck
• Folds up when not in use and can be easily rolled into a corner or closet
• Lifetime warranty on motor and frame
• Does not require WiFi or a subscription to run; just plug in and go
• Included heart rate chest strap will sync with the two onboard heart rate programs
• Lightweight but offers a 325lb weight capacity
• 3.0 HP motor is quiet with smooth adjustments
• Gentle cushioning on the deck
Cons:
• Weak fan
• Minimal tech features
• No accompanying app
• The motor might not be powerful enough for intense training
How Long Will the Sole F63 Last?
How does the slogan go “put good in, get good out”? The motor and frame of Sole’s F63 are made of high-quality, durable components that will last for at least ten years of use. Additionally, Sole provides a lifetime warranty for the frame, three years of coverage for the parts of this machine, and a year of labor warranty. Sole stands behind their products, as evidenced by this kind of warranty.
However, we would like to take this opportunity to remind our readers that keeping a perfect environment is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining your machine. A machine will undoubtedly last longer if it is kept in a climate-controlled space, cleaned frequently, and regularly unplugged.
In-depth Review of Sole F63
Construction
The strength and durability of sole machines are well known. Despite being Sole’s entry-level treadmill, the F63 features the same sturdy design as their more expensive models. The base supports and uprights of the steel frame have a powder coating. 3″ side rails are textured so you won’t fall when stepping on and off the track. There is also an 18″ long step-up zone on each side rail with additional width and texture for support.
The Sole F63’s 3.0HP motor isn’t the most powerful, but it accomplishes the task at hand. The incline and speed settings are controlled by the motor. This motor is remarkably quiet, in my opinion. I had to actually check underneath the deck to make sure it was inclined. Regulations and consistency apply to speed settings. The changes in speed happen instantly. I played around with the incline a little, going up to a 10% grade and then back to a 3% grade while walking at a brisk 3.5mph. Through incline changes, the speed remained constant. In a similar manner, I adjusted the incline’s steepness to 15% and experimented with a range of speeds, going from 2 mph to 3.5 mph to 6 mph. The motor operated smoothly in every setting.
Console/Controls
The 6.5″ Digital words and numbers are displayed on a bright, easily readable LCD screen. Without any extraneous details, it is direct and concise. Program, incline, and speed are all controlled by buttons beneath the screen.
On the F63, there is only one fan, and it is also unimpressive. It is located right at the top of the console, and the vents cannot be adjusted to point downward. My head was blown over by a weak fan.
A tablet or phone can be held in a tablet holder that is fastened to the console using an adjustable clip. The tablet holder enables users to watch a program or browse the internet on their device because the F63 screen is not intended to show a video or be interactive.
Good storage is available on the console. On either side of the screen are two sizable pockets with dividers inside. Just above the deck, beneath the console, there is also an additional storage tray. This tray is positioned further back so that it won’t get in the way when using an incline.
Functionality
The Sole F63 is a decent little device. It is well-built, has straightforward programming, and can be folded. The F63’s overall functionality is impressive, despite a somewhat crooked console display.
The F63 offers lots of training variables and a respectable range of inclines. The incline is a useful feature because it is made for users looking for a lower-impact workout like walking or light jogging. By simply raising the deck, you can make any workout harder. In order to lessen joint pain or impact injuries, users are able to maintain a low-impact position. Along with the anterior quads that are dominant during running, the incline will also strengthen the posterior muscles.
You can download the Sole app from Sole to your phone. Your workout statistics, such as calorie burn, heart rates, and duration, will be tracked. The treadmill does not, however, have access to an online subscription database.
The Sole F80 is the F63’s older sibling, and it’s astoundingly quiet. The motor runs surprisingly quietly when the speed and interval are changed, which surprised me. Even though these machines don’t have all the extra bells and whistles, they still have high-quality engineering, which is one area where Sole excels. The F63’s close proximity to the ground also contributes to some noise absorption. For those who must run quietly to avoid upsetting their roommates or neighbors, this treadmill would be ideal.
The F63 can be folded and unfolded without difficulty thanks to EasyLift assistance and a hydraulic release arm. One person can fold it without difficulty. When locked into a folded position, it will remain stable until the yellow release lever is pulled. There are four wheels—two under the front uprights and two under the deck. The F63 can be moved out of the way by gently pivoting and rolling it.
Who the Sole F63 Treadmill is Best For
With a wide speed and incline range, the Sole F63 offers durability. The 3.0 HP motor is capable of handling daily use but perhaps not rigorous exercise. In general, the Sole F63 treadmill caters to:
• Users who prefer minimal tech
• Beginning to intermediate walkers and runners
• Users with limited space
Who the Sole F63 Treadmill is Not Best For
Despite its pros, the F63 may not be the best deal for everyone, including:
• Those on a heavy training schedule
• Users over 325 pounds
• Users who prefer integrated, smart programming
Factors to Consider before Purchasing the Sole F63 Treadmill
Footprint and Size
The F63 has the smallest footprint of any treadmill made by Sole, measuring 66 inches high by 82 inches long by 35 inches wide. As a result of the fact that all Sole machines have sturdy steel frames and a running surface that is between 20 and 22 inches wide, it is nevertheless not too dissimilar from the brand’s larger machines. The belt is on the F63 measures 20 inches wide by 60 inches long. There is the sufficient length for users who are taller or have a longer stride.
The eight-inch step-up height of the F63 might be problematic for people with limited mobility. The side rails’ traction helps to increase stability, but if you’re a little unsteady, be sure to hold on to the handles as you step on.
Console and Controls
The controls and console have advantages and disadvantages. It’s simple to see on the 6.5-inch LCD display because it’s bright and has great contrast. The control buttons on the console are conveniently located in the right spots. Because the buttons are tactile, you can feel when you’ve pressed one.
At numbers 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, and 12, the speed buttons are arranged similarly. The manual buttons, which are once more located underneath the display, must be used to scroll to speeds in between. Although it’s not difficult, you might not want to scroll down to a slower speed when you’re perspiring heavily and covered in sweat.
Power
The machine is adequately powered by the 3.0 horsepower, DC-type motor. It’s quiet, as one Amazon reviewer put it, “The treadmill is also relatively quiet…I was watching TV with the sound only about a third of the way up with no problems…” According to a few Amazon reviewers, the machine may shake at speeds over seven miles per hour if you’re close to the heavier end of the 325-pound weight limit.
The length of the power cord should also be mentioned when discussing power. As one Amazon reviewer puts it, ” The cord is extremely brief…AND very thick…” That might restrict placement, or you might need to use an extension cord. However, be sure to purchase an extension cord with a high enough gauge for the device. Overall, the F63 is better suited for occasional users as opposed to those who are heavily involved in training, where you may need faster speed and incline changes.
Modes and Features
The F63 isn’t necessarily a treadmill with lots of features. Sole keeps things simple while adding a few extras. With four bins for items like a phone or water bottle, the console, for instance, has plenty of storage space.
The console’s top has an integrated tablet holder that expands and clips to hold tablets in place. Additionally, thanks to the integrated USB port, you won’t have to worry about your device losing power midway through your run.
The inclusion of a Bluetooth heart rate strap with the device is one technological feature that’s useful. It should be used with the two heart rate programs. On top of that, you can create two custom programs using the two user profiles that you can set up. For a little bit more volume, you can connect via Bluetooth to the onboard speakers as well.
There is a fan of the F63, but most Amazon reviewers complain that it is subpar. Don’t expect it to have a big impact on how comfortable you are.
Training Programs
Six pre-set workout routines are available: strength, hill, fat burn, cardio, HIIT, and manual. The aforementioned heart rate programs all involve training that maintains your heart rate at 60 or 80 percent of its maximum.
Since you can monitor the intensity of your workout using your heart rate, the heart rate strap adds real value to this machine. In general, heart rate monitors are more precise than fitness trackers and watches like Fitbit or Garmin. If necessary, you can also monitor your heart rate using the pulse grips on the handlebars below the console, though the reading will probably be far less accurate.
Price
Even though the F63 is priced higher than machines that are positioned at the $600 mark, it still offers far better quality than those machines. One Amazon reviewer sums it up, “It’s a fantastic value…Much more durable than anything in the $600 range will be, that much is certain. However, it’s probably overkill for smaller people like women, children, and small men…But that means that they can run on it and not stress the machine…” For those who regularly use a treadmill, the lifetime warranty on the frame and motor makes it a worthwhile investment.
Warranty and Return Policy
The Sole F63 warranty is impressive and includes a:
• Lifetime warranty on the frame and motor
• Three-year warranty on the deck, electronics, parts
• One-year warranty on labor
If you purchase the treadmill from Sole through the Sole Fitness website, they have a 30-day return policy. If you do decide to return the treadmill within the allotted 30-day period, Sole will pick it up in the same location where it was delivered. That might require you to deliver it curbside for pickup.
Final Thoughts: A Good Entry-level Treadmill
For those who don’t need or want a built-in touchscreen or subscription service, the Sole F63 is a good entry-level treadmill. It has a sturdy construction and a motor that is strong enough for regular running and walking. Impressive protection is provided by the warranty, particularly for the motor and frame. Additionally, it folds and has four wheels so that, if necessary, you can move it around your workout area. Overall, this treadmill is a good option for users with limited space and who don’t need fancy upgrades.