Sole F63 Treadmill Review: Is This the Right Treadmill for You? (2024 Update)
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Key Features:
- Price: $1,199.99
- User capacity: 325 pounds
- Machine weight: 254 pounds
- Screen: 6.5-inch LCD screen
- Speed: 0.5-12 mph
- Incline: 15 settings
The F63 is Sole’s most basic treadmill. With the same durable frame found on the brand’s much more expensive models and a 3.0 horsepower motor, it’s a treadmill for the home gym with enough stability and juice for beginning to intermediate walkers and runners. A high maximum speed and incline will give most casual users a “run” for their money.
Sole Fitness focuses on quality and durability rather than integrating the latest high-tech upgrades into its fitness equipment. Consequently, as the brand’s entry-level model, the F63 is free of techy bells and whistles. It doesn’t have a touchscreen or an accompanying workout app to do trainer-led workouts. However, it makes up for that with a solid design and a warranty to back it up. Plus, this folding treadmill is relatively compact and mobile if you’re looking for a model to fit in a smaller space. This Sole F63 treadmill review includes an in-depth look at a solid treadmill that should last for years.
What Is the Sole F63 Treadmill?
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The Sole F63 Treadmill is Sole’s entry-level model. Unlike some other treadmill manufacturers, Sole has focused on the build quality of its treadmills rather than creating high-tech, smart models. You won’t find a single Sole treadmill with a 22-inch swiveling touchscreen.
What you will find are treadmills designed for devoted users, both casual walkers and competitive athletes. The Sole F63, for example, even at the entry level, has a steel frame with a high quality motor and a lifetime warranty on both.
The F63 isn’t completely devoid of technology by any means. There are six standard programs, the option to create two custom programs and two user profiles available. It’s also Bluetooth compatible so you can connect the included wireless heart rate monitor strap or listen to your music through the two Bluetooth speakers. You can also watch your device while it rests in an integrated tablet holder, which has a built-in USB port for charging.
You can see important stats like distance, speed, time, calories, pace and heart rate (using the heart rate chest strap) on a clear, bright 6.5-inch LCD display. This model doesn’t have or require WiFi or a subscription to a fitness app for you to use all of the features.
On the downside, that also means you don’t get trainer-led workouts pumped directly into a screen. But it also means you don’t have to rely on an expensive subscription or potentially spotty technology either.
Sole packs this model with solid speed, ranging from 0.5 to 12 mph, and 15 incline levels that reach up to 15 percent incline. It’s also a good pick if you’re tight on space. An easy assist folding mechanism and hydraulic release system make lifting and lowering the deck safe and simple. When folded, the dimensions measure 47 inches long by 35 inches wide by 72 inches tall. Plus, it has four wheels, giving it decent mobility for a treadmill.
The Pros of the Sole F63 Treadmill
- Doesn’t require WiFi
- 3.0 HP, DC-type motor is quiet and powerful enough for running
- 12 mph top speed
- 15 incline levels
- Heart rate chest strap included for use with two heart rate programs
- Easy to fold and maneuver
- 325-pound weight capacity
The Cons of the Sole F63 Treadmill
- Weak fan
- Minimal tech features
- No accompanying app
- Motor might not be powerful enough for intense training
- Short power cord
Who the Sole F63 Treadmill is Best For
The Sole F63 offers durability with a wide speed and incline range. The 3.0 HP motor can keep up with daily use but not necessarily heavy training. 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
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You’ve got a few things to consider before investing in a Sole F63, from the overall dimensions and deck size to the console layout and motor power. As you weigh the pros and cons, think about your workout style, personality and fitness goals. Someone who wants to use the treadmill to burn extra calories may be happier with this machine than someone looking to shave a few seconds off of their 10K time, for example.
Footprint and size
The F63 is 66 inches high by 82 inches long by 35 inches wide, giving it Sole’s smallest treadmill footprint. However, it’s not too far off from the brand’s larger machines, mostly because all of the Sole machines feature strong steel frames with a running surface between 20 to 22 inches wide. The F63’s belt happens to be 20 inches wide by 60 inches long. That’s enough length for taller users and those with a longer stride.
The deck folds up to make the treadmill a little smaller at 47 inches long by 35 inches wide by 72 inches tall. However, this isn’t an under-desk treadmill—it likely takes up too much room to walk on while you work. If you need to move it, “the treadmill easily rolls on its four wheels,” according to one Amazon reviewer. But keep in mind that the treadmill weighs over 250 pounds, so don’t roll it over surfaces that can be damaged, like hardwood floors.
The F63 has an eight-inch step-up height, which could be an issue for those with limited mobility. The side rails have traction to add stability, but make sure to hang on to the handles as you’re stepping on if you’re a little unstable.
Console and controls
The console and controls have their pros and cons. The 6.5-inch LCD display is bright with excellent contrast, so it’s easy to see. The console layout has the control buttons in the right place, where they’re easy to find. The buttons are tactile so you can tell when you’ve pressed them.
However, the direct incline and speed buttons are in intervals, which can make it more difficult to get to your desired settings. For example, the incline buttons are one, three, five, seven, nine, 12 and 15. If you want any settings in between, you have to use the manual speed adjustment buttons underneath the display. The process isn’t hard, but it is a process that might take some getting used to.
The speed buttons are laid out similarly at two, three, four, five, seven, nine and 12. To reach speeds in between, you have to scroll using the manual buttons, which are, again, underneath the display. It’s not difficult, but when you’re sweaty and breathing heavily, you don’t necessarily want to scroll your way to a lower speed.
Power
The 3.0 horsepower, DC-type motor does a decent job of powering the machine. It’s quiet, as one Amazon reviewer put it, “Treadmill is pretty quiet too....I was watching TV with the sound only about a third of the way up with no problems…” However, if you’re near the heavier end of the machine’s 325-pound weight limit, you might notice some shaking at speeds over seven miles per hour, according to a couple of Amazon reviewers.
Something else to mention when we’re talking about power is the length of the power cord. As one Amazon reviewer puts it, “ The cord is very short...AND very thick…” That could potentially limit placement, or you might have to use an extension cord. However, make sure to get an extension cord that’s a high enough gauge for the machine. Overall, the F63 is better for casual users rather than those involved with heavy training, where you may need faster speed and incline changes.
Modes and features
The F63 isn’t necessarily a feature-heavy treadmill. Sole keeps things basic but throws in a few extras. For example, there is ample storage on the console, with four bins for things like a phone or water bottle.
A built-in tablet holder at the top of the console expands and clips to secure devices. Plus, you don’t have to worry about your device running out of battery halfway through your run, thanks to the built-in USB port.
One techy feature that’s helpful is the addition of a Bluetooth heart rate strap included with the machine. Use it with the two heart rate programs. You can also set up two user profiles on which you can create two custom programs. Bluetooth also allows you to connect to the onboard speakers for a little extra volume.
The F63 has a fan, but most reviewers on Amazon say it’s weak. Don’t count on it making too much of a difference in your comfort.
Training programs
There are six preset workout programs—strength, hill, fat burn, cardio, HIIT and manual. The above-mentioned heart rate programs include training that keeps you at 60 or 80 percent maximum heart rate.
The heart rate strap adds real value to this machine because you can use your heart rate to track the intensity of your workout. Heart rate straps are generally more accurate than fitness trackers and watches like Fitbit or Garmin. You can also use the pulse grips on the handlebars below the console to track your heart rate if needed, though the reading will likely be much less accurate.
Price
Currently, Sole sells the F63 for $1,199.
That might seem steep for what’s considered an entry-level machine, but the quality of the F63 is far superior to machines that sit at the $600 level. One Amazon reviewer sums it up, “It's a great value...Much sturdier than any in the $600 range are going to be, that's for sure… It's probably overkill for smaller people, such as women, kids and small men...But that means that they can run on it and not stress the machine…” Additionally, the lifetime warranty on the frame and motor makes it a valuable investment for those who use a treadmill regularly.
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
Sole has a 30-day return policy if you purchase the treadmill through the Sole Fitness website. If you do return the treadmill within the 30-day window, Sole will pick up the machine the same way it was dropped off. That could mean you have to take it curbside for pickup.
How the Sole F63 Treadmill Stacks Up Against Other Products
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Sole F63 vs NordicTrack EXP 7i
The NordicTrack EXP 7i is the NordicTrack’s equivalent to the Sole F63. They’re in the same price range, have 3.0 horsepower motors and fold. Other similarities include:
- 12 mph maximum speed
- 20-inch by 60-inch belt
- Built-in fan (which some reviewers note is not powerful)
- Cushioned deck
However, the EXP 7i has a seven-inch smart touchscreen and the ability to directly connect to iFit. iFit includes thousands of workouts, including trainer-led workouts with automatic trainer control. That means the trainer can make automatic speed and incline changes during workouts. However, to access those workouts, you have to pay for an iFit subscription. The treadmill comes with a 30-day iFit trial before you need a subscription to access workouts. If you don’t choose to use iFit, there are a few built-in programs and manual control. The EXP 7i has a slightly lower incline max at 12 percent and lower 300-pound user weight.
The EXP 7i is a better option than the Sole F63 if you want integrated training programs. However, you’ll pay more in the long run for the EXP 7i because of the iFit subscription. If you don’t want or won’t use iFit, the Sole F63 offers a better warranty and a stronger frame.
Sole F63 vs Proform Carbon T7
This folding treadmill is very similar to the NordicTrack EXP 7i. It has a seven-inch touchscreen and folds to save space. This machine can connect directly to iFit, displaying workouts directly on the screen and allowing trainers to make automatic adjustments to speed and incline settings. Of course, to access all of the workouts, you’ll need an iFit subscription. However, the Proform Carbon T7 comes with a full three-year iFit subscription.
The Carbon T7 costs more than the Sole F63 primarily because of the touchscreen and included iFit subscription. Beyond that, it has a weaker 2.6 HP motor, lower max speed (10 mph), fewer incline levels (10 percent) and a shorter 55-inch belt.
If you really want that iFit subscription, this model is the best deal for trying it out. However, it’s a better option for casual walkers and joggers because of the weaker motor and lower max settings.
Sole F63 vs Horizon 7.0 AT
The Horizon 7.0 AT is a quality treadmill that matches many of the Sole F63’s specs. It has a 3.0 HP motor, doesn’t have a touchscreen, folds, is Bluetooth-enabled and is compatible with a chest strap (not included). The two treadmills also have the same max speed and incline levels.
Where they differ is in app compatibility. The Horizon is made to integrate with many third-party apps like Zwift and Peloton. You can connect to your device via Bluetooth and follow workouts while the device rests on the console’s media holder. The display syncs with the connected app to show updated stats. However, trainers can’t make automatic adjustments to this machine. If you’re following a workout, you’ll have to make manual speed and incline adjustments.
For more information about this treadmill, check out our in-depth Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill review.
The other features that differ from the F63 are the 7.0 AT’s speed and incline manual control dials. The dials let you scroll to make speed and incline adjustments, which is easier than using the F63’s manual buttons. This model also has similar warranty guarantees as the F63 (lifetime on frame and motor, three years on parts, and one year on labor), making these two an even comparison. It comes down to whether or not you want to use third-party apps with the treadmill or not.
Sole F63 Treadmill FAQs
Can I run on a Sole F63 treadmill?
You can run on the Sole F63 treadmill. The 3.0 HP motor is enough for daily running. However, if you plan to run at higher speeds and inclines for long periods of time, you might want a machine with a more powerful motor to reduce wear and tear.
How long will the Sole F63 last?
The Sole F63 has the potential to last for quite a few years. The lifetime warranty on the frame and motor can seriously extend its lifespan, as can the three-year warranty on electronics and parts. However, it’s hard to set a definite time frame for how long it will last. That’s primarily due to the fact that the lifespan will depend on how often the treadmill is used and the speed and incline settings.
Is the Sole F63 loud?
More than one Amazon reviewer mentions the quietness of the F63’s motor, with headlining “smooth, solid and quiet.” Even when moving inclines, it stays relatively quiet.
How heavy is the Sole F63?
The Sole F63 weighs 254 pounds.
What year did the Sole F63 treadmill come out?
The current version of the F63 came out in 2019. However, it’s been on the market since around 2009.
Does Sole F63 have Bluetooth?
The Sole F63 does have Bluetooth to connect to the chest strap and to connect devices to Bluetooth speakers.
How long does it take to assemble the Sole F63 treadmill?
Amazon reviewers report that it takes between one and two hours to set up the F63 treadmill. However, they suggest having two people available because some of the parts, like the deck, are heavy.
Final Thoughts
The Sole F63 is a good entry-level treadmill for those who don’t want a subscription service or need a built-in touchscreen. It has a solid build and motor powerful enough for daily walking and running. The warranty offers impressive protection, especially for the motor and frame. It also folds and has four wheels to move it around your workout space if needed. Overall, for users with limited space who don’t need techy upgrades, this treadmill is a good option.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
