Our Sole F80 treadmill review takes a look at one of the outstanding candidates in the $1,000-$2,000 folding treadmill price range.
If you’re looking for a mid-priced treadmill with a wide range of features that’s a proven performer, then this would be a good treadmill to investigate further.
I like Sole treadmills a lot, and judging from the positive reviews from satisfied users posted all over the internet, so do a lot of other people.
So what makes the F80 such a good bet in the mid-price treadmill market?
Sole F80 Treadmill Review – Features…
Serious runners looking for bit more speed may be better checking out the F85 treadmill. The F80 has the same 2.5 HP continuous duty motor as the cheaper F63 treadmill but has a running speed of 0.5 to 11 mph, which is enough for most exercisers.
The F80 inclines to a 15 degree max, as do all the models in the Sole treadmill range, so if you want to make your workout more intense, running up the odd hill should provide an added challenge!
The deck measures 75″ long by 33″ wide with a generous running surface of 55″ long by 20″ wide.
This is the same as the F63, but you get the excellent Cushion Flex Whisper Deck with the F80.
This is a wonderfully smooth and comfortable surface to run on and from personal experience, saves a lot of discomfort and wear and tear on your feet, knees, hips and lower back.
The other main difference with the F63 are the 2 3/4″ rollers, which account for the slightly heavier weight of 250lbs.
You’re unlikely to find any larger rollers in this price bracket. Large rollers give you a smoother ride and generally last longer as they have to revolve less frequently.
Anything that adds to a treadmill’s durability and cuts down on maintenenace and the associated costs is fine with us!
There’s a very easy to read console, which we like a lot and makes monitoring your progress in the middle of a demanding workout a breeze. A quick glance at the readout gives you all the information you need.
The console displays the essentials – speed, incline, time, distance covered, calories pulse and pace – and there’s no need to scroll down.
Manual programming is simple and there are six pre-set programs, such as fat-burning and cardio training, two workout programs that you can customise and two heart rate programs – more than enough to be going on with!
A nice feature found on all Sole treadmills is the incline and speed controls on the arm rests. They eliminate any need to reach for the console display whilst running.
Safety features include a low profile hood to protect you feet and a big emergency stop switch.
You get hand held pulse grips and a wireless chest strap. You also get heart control, a feature that I like as it’s a useful tool with which to manage your workout intensity.
For a heavy machine, folding is very easy and once locked into place, the deck is safe and secure.
I should also mention Sole’s class-leading warranty – lifetime warranties on the motor, deck and frame, a five year warranty on the electronics, belt and rollers and a two year labour warranty. Unbeatable!
Sole F80 Treadmill Review – The Bottom Line…
Our Sole F80 treadmill review would conclude that this is without a doubt one of the best buys in the $1,000-$2,000 price range and offers truly outstanding value for money.
Is it worth the extra money that the F63 sells for? For a few hundred dollars more you get a lot more for your cash from the F80.
It’s your money, but with my knees, I’d pay the extra few hundred dollars for the Cushion Flex Whisper Deck.