So many high-tech treadmills complicate everything and make starting your workout a long, drawn-out process. However, settling for a low-tech treadmill reduces your training options. What if you didn’t have to choose? The Sole F63 is an FTMS-enabled treadmill that might solve your problems.
In all my years of running competitively, I’ve trained in manual or quick start mode on treadmills 99% of the time. It wasn’t until I became a treadmill reviewer that I started using built-in training content and apps. The F63 helps me return to the simplicity of those earlier days.
The F63 is a durable treadmill that I trust to get me through my workout in a minimal amount of time. If I need to switch things up for my sanity’s sake, I connect the F63 to the free Sole+ app or Zwift. However, this budget treadmill has a few limitations that could impede your ideal workout if you buy it before understanding the F63’s strengths and weaknesses.
Sole F63 Treadmill Review (2025 Model): Bottom Line
Sole F63 vs. Similar Treadmills
See how the Sole F63 compares to the competition to ensure you make the right treadmill choice.
 Sole F63 |  Horizon 7.0 AT |  NordicTrack EXP 10i |  Sole F80 |  ProForm Carbon TLX | |
| Price (MSRP) | $2,299 | $2,499 | $1,899 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | An entry-level treadmill with a high-quality build, impressive training options, and an easy-to-use design, all for an affordable price. | A compact, budget-friendly running treadmill with a foldable deck, simple design, and connectivity options. | A compact, foldable treadmill with iFIT integration on the 10″ touch screen. | A well-priced running treadmill that folds up and offers standard workout programs and Netflix streaming without an additional subscription fee. | This budget treadmill is great for running and allows you to use it with or without iFIT on your device. |
| Awards Earned | |||||
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Product | Sole F63 | Horizon 7.0 AT | NordicTrack EXP 10i | Sole F80 | ProForm Carbon TLX |
| Workout Experience | 6 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| Specs / Features | 6 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 6 |
| Dimensions / Storability | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
| On-Board Workouts & Apps | 6 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 6 |
| Build Quality | 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
| Overall Score | 64 | 68 | 70 | 82 | 68 |
| # of Onboard Workouts | 6 | 8 | 2 | 100's | 1 |
| Paid Programming - Cost | Free | N/A | iFIT – $39/month | N/A | iFIT – $39/month |
| Netflix / 3rd Party Apps | N/A | N/A | Netflix, Prime (Beta Testing) | YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Max, Peacock, Hulu, Spotify, ESPN, CNN, Audible, Kinomap | N/A |
| Display | 6.5″ backlit LCD | 7.25″ LCD screen, 4 LED windows | 10″ HD touchscreen | 10.1" touchscreen | 7″ high-contrast digital screen |
| Dimensions (In Use) | 77″L x 35″W x 67″H | 76″ L x 35″ W x 67″ H | 70.8” L x 34.9” W x 59.7” H | 82.5"L x 38"W x 66"H | 74.3″ L x 35.1″ W x 59.1″ |
| Deck Size | 20″ x 60″ | 20″ x 60″ | 22″ x 55″ | 22" x 60" | 20″ x 60″ |
| Treadmill Weight | 224 lbs | 277 lbs | 230 lbs (in box) | 274 lbs | 249 lbs (in box) |
| Weight Capacity | 325 lbs | 325 lbs | 300 lbs | 350 lbs | 300 lbs |
| Motor Size | 3.0 CHP | 3.0 HP | 2.75 CHP | 3.5 HP | 3.0 CHP |
| Max Speed | 12 mph | 12 mph | 10 MPH | 12 mph | 12 mph |
| Incline/Decline | 15 incline levels | 0% to 15% | 0% to 12% | 15 incline levels | 0 to 12% |
| Warranty | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 2-year deck, 2-year parts, 2-year wear items, 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 3-year deck, 3-year parts, 3-year wear items, 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | 10-year frame, 1-year parts, 1-year labor |
| Additional Features | Bluetooth speakers, storage, USB-A charging | Bluetooth, Quick Dial controls, Gymkit Technology | AutoAdjust, dual speakers, OneTouch controls | Screen mirroring, Sole+ app, wireless charging pad | AutoAdjust, storage, Bluetooth |
Dimensions/Storability
Of course, the folding deck is what makes it very appealing for most homes.
The Sole F63’s dimensions are 77” L x 35” W x 67” H. You will need several inches of clearance around the treadmill for your safety. Extra clearance ensures you have plenty of room to get off and on the treadmill, there are no tripping hazards, and there is nothing that could damage the treadmill. This is only necessary when the treadmill is in use.
The deck saves a lot of space when folded up, measuring only 50″ L x 35″ W x 72″ H. The Sole F63 Treadmill weighs 224 lbs, but there are four transportation wheels, so you can simply push the F63 where you need it to go.
This isn’t quite as seamless as the handle release on the previous model, but it works just the same.
The deck gives you assistance when lifting the deck. To unlock, all you have to do is push your foot against the metal bar at the bottom of the treadmill, and the deck will slowly lower to the floor by itself.
Unlike other kick-release levers, this one has a breakable plastic component. We prefer the hand-release lever on the Sole F80 and F85 and would like to see Sole return to this folding mechanism in the future. For now, as long as you are not aggressive with the kick release, it should be fine.
The step-up height is low at about 8” high. This is the height of the deck when it’s flat to the top of the side rails. The F63 is easy to step on and off of. This also means that it can work better for homes with lower ceilings; you just need to factor in the 15 levels of incline. Check out our guidelines for the proper ceiling height. We recommend at least an 8.5 ft high ceiling to use the F63 and its incline function for someone who is 6’0” and a runner.
Onboard Workouts & Apps
Most home treadmills nowadays come with attached touch screens and subscription streaming content. The Sole F63 is one of the few that doesn’t. Instead of trainer-led videos, the F63 comes with preprogrammed workouts that don’t require an extra monthly fee or even wifi to use.
The workout programs are pretty standard but provide a good amount of variety for your workouts.
There are six different onboard workout programs. These include manual, hill, fat burn, cardio, HIIT, and strength. There are also two custom workout settings and two heart rate tracking workouts. These include preset speeds and inclines that the treadmill automatically adjusts to. On the screen, these workouts are displayed as a graph so you know what to expect.
Related: The 6 Best Treadmill Workouts For Beginners
Sole Plus App
The Sole F63 does not have a touchscreen display, but Sole offers a free training app called Sole+. This app can be connected to the F63 via Bluetooth. The trainer-led videos start and stop the treadmill automatically. The app doesn’t control the speed and incline, but it tracks your training metrics. You can pair apps like Garmin Connect to store workouts in one place.
Console
The console consists of a 6.5” LCD white backlit display. Since it isn’t a touch screen, there are additional buttons on the console for navigating the included workout programs. The program and enter buttons below the console are for selecting each of the different modes.
Once you select a program, you will enter your age using the speed or incline buttons. We love that the F63 is simple and straightforward, but it’s important to keep in mind that it has less tech than other comparable treadmills.
The LCD screen is of decent size.
We’re able to see all of our workout metrics, like time, distance, speed, and heart rate, along with each of the workout modes, just fine. The screen and console aren’t adjustable, but we didn’t have any issues with seeing or reaching.
Below the program, speed, and incline buttons (where you can get to specific increment levels) are quick adjustment buttons. These are numbered with options for the incline on top and speed on the bottom.
We’re thankful for having these on any treadmill we test, but this layout is a little clunky. I often press one of the incline buttons when I mean to change the speed or vice versa because they’re on top of each other. Also, the numbers skip some key metrics like 0% incline and 6 mph.
The ones that are available are helpful, but to get to specific speeds like 5.7 mph, you have to use the speed buttons up top.
Noticeably missing from the previous model are the side handle adjustment buttons. These were two red buttons built into each handle so you could adjust the speed and incline right under your fingertips. I used those the most on the previous model, so I miss them a bit on the new model. This layout is easy enough to use and reach, though.
The fan is now below the screen, and it’s larger than the old model. I had high hopes that it would be powerful, but sadly, it isn’t very effective. I can feel the air with my hand in front of the vents, but the air is too weak to reach my face and neck. So, if you sweat a lot or like to have a breeze while running, plan to use a fan of your own.
There is still a great amount of storage on the Sole F63. The two cupholders hold your water bottle and even my 40 oz Stanley Cup. Plus, they each have a small pocket for items like keys or headphone earbuds. Plus, there is a large storage tray below the console for whatever else you need nearby.
The F63 can connect to your device with Bluetooth to play your audio through the speakers. The speakers go pretty loud, too. There is also a device rack above the screen to put your phone or tablet. It adjusts at the top for larger tablets. You can also rest your phone on the ledge below the screen. This gives you nice options for entertainment when you’re using the F63.
Build Quality
The construction is where the Sole F63 Treadmill really shines. Although the F63 is Sole’s entry-level model, it has similarities to the brand’s higher-end models. It also performs similarly to higher-priced treadmills.
For an affordable treadmill, we appreciate that the F63 has a 325 lb weight limit. This limit makes the F63 more accessible to more people. And considering that the F63 weighs 267 lbs, it is a substantial treadmill.
Frame
The frame is made out of steel.
It is comparable to other home treadmills. The frame on the floor sits under the front of the deck. This is where the steel uprights connect to the frame and extend up to hold the console. The F63 also has a steel crossbar under the console and storage tray that helps add stability and keep the console in place.
When we’re running on it, the console is pretty steady, even for our larger reviewers. I think this design definitely helps contribute to how stable the F63 is overall.
The side handles aren’t the longest, but they are well within reach when you need them. They have a nice texture so they don’t feel slippery. The front handle has been updated to be a connected piece that extends across the front part of the console. On the right and left sides are where you can grab for balance and to get a heart rate reading with the pulse grips.
This handle is a little thick, so I can’t wrap my hands around it, but I can grip it well enough when needed.
Related: Sole F63 vs F80 Treadmill Comparison: Features, Performance, and Value
Motor
The Sole F63 has a 3.0 HP motor. This is typically the smallest motor size we recommend for running. The F63 is really best for light to moderate use, so around 3-7 miles per day. For longer distances and highly intensive training, I would check out the Sole F80. For a smaller-sized treadmill running motor, though, the F63 performs really well.
It’s also quiet. We tested the motor noise at 3 mph, 6 mph, 9 mph, and 12 mph without anyone on the treadmill and found that the noise ranged from 48.2 dB to 65.9 dB. The ambient noise of our studio, when we measured the noise level, was 35.5 dB with the treadmill off.
The most noise generated is actually from your feet hitting the deck. The noise generated by a specific runner or walker will vary greatly because it depends on a wide variety of factors. This includes everything from user weight, shoe cushioning, fatigue level, and running/walking form.
The incline is also remarkably quiet when adjusting. At 3 mph, the incline noise was 49.7 dB compared to the 48.2 dB when the treadmill was not inclining. At 6 mph, the incline increased the noise level from 56.5 to 57 dB. The change is so subtle that we really had to pay attention during testing to notice when the incline started and stopped to get an accurate measurement.
For its price, the F63 has excellent training capabilities.
The belt moves up to 12 mph, and the deck inclines up to 15 levels. We have found the speed of home treadmills to be very reliable in our testing. The incline seems to vary a bit more. The Sole F63 was inclined to 3.1% when set to a flat grade. Most treadmills we have measured are around 1 to 1.5% inclined when they are set to level “0.”
As for the maximum incline, the F63’s 15 levels peaked at 11.6%, which is comparable to what most home treadmill models offer.
As far as getting up to speed and inclining, the F63 is a little slow. It takes 41 seconds to go from 1 mph to 12 mph. This is very comparable to more powerful Sole treadmills like the F80 and F85.
The incline is a little faster. It takes 27 seconds to go from level 0 to level 15. This does mean that it is a little safer, especially if you accidentally hit a button you didn’t mean to hit, but it makes the F63 a little less appealing for HIIT training. If you don’t mind hopping on the side rails in between intervals, though, the F63 works just fine.
Deck
The running surface gives you 20” of width and 60” of length when you’re running. This is my favorite size. It is long enough to support pretty much all running strides, but narrow enough to still be compact to not take up as much space. Treadmills are large machines and anywhere they can cut a few extra inches makes them more appealing for a wider range of homes.
The Sole F63 is a sizable treadmill, but considering all of its training capabilities and hearty construction, it is still pretty compact. If you want a treadmill with a wider deck, the F80 or F85 is your best bet, but those treadmills are also priced higher. The Sole F63 will work for most users while still being budget-friendly, unlike the Horizon T101, which only has a 55” long deck.
The cushioning in the deck is firm underfoot and comparable to other Sole Treadmills.
The F63 might not be best if you have joint issues or discomfort, but it is great if you like running on harder surfaces. Most entry-level models like the F63 have minimal cushioning, although they offer more shock absorption than concrete outside.
Related: Why is Your Treadmill Belt Slipping or Skipping? (How to Fix)
Warranty
We appreciate that Sole includes a lifetime warranty for the frame and motor with the purchase of the F63. Included in the warranty are 2 years for the deck and electronics/parts, 1 year for labor, and 90 days for cosmetic items.
Assembling the Sole F63 is pretty straightforward, especially if you’re familiar with putting together fitness equipment, but you might want an extra hand to help you out.
Should You Buy the Sole F63
What makes the Sole F63 one of our top-recommended treadmills is its performance. For a budget treadmill, this one performs like higher-end machines. It is a great value pick because it comes with premium training capabilities and high-quality construction, plus, it’s quiet and sturdy to use.
Overall, the Sole F63 is a great treadmill for most people who are looking to save a little bit. While it might not be best for intense training and multi-user households, it holds its own, handling moderate amounts of running. We also recommend the F63 for those who want a compact treadmill that you can still run on.
Even though it has a minimal amount of tech, this isn’t a bad thing, especially if you don’t want to have to pay for a monthly subscription. The onboard workouts should be just fine for guided training for most. Plus, if you like following along with workout videos, you have the option to do so on your device.
Looking for more choices? Take a look at our list of top-rated treadmills by Sole
Sole F63 Treadmill Review FAQ’s / Q&A’s
How long does a Sole F63 treadmill last?
The Sole F63 should last as long as other home treadmills. We have seen treadmills last over 10 years with proper care and usage. To ensure that your treadmill lasts as long as possible, keep up with its maintenance routine. The Sole F63 should be with you for many, many miles.
Can you run on a Sole F63 treadmill?
Yes! We have run on the Sole F63 for all sorts of runs–short runs, interval runs, long runs, and everything in between. The Sole F63 has a 20” x 60” running deck and a speed range of 0 to 12 mph, which should be more than enough for most runners.
Is the Sole F63 a smart treadmill?
While the Sole F63 has Bluetooth connectivity and speakers, it doesn’t quite have the sophistication of the Sole F80 and F85. Yet, the Sole F63 is a great option for walkers and runners who want to hop on and get to running. The simplified console does not require a subscription and has plenty of onboard training content.
How much does the Sole F63 weigh?
The Sole F63 weighs 224 lbs. It folds for compact storage and can be wheeled around more easily than other treadmills.
Does the Sole F63 Treadmill have wheels?
The Sole F63 has four transport wheels. Instead of tilting it onto two wheels like most treadmills require, you can just push it around.
Is your review of the Sole F63 a paid promotion?
No, all of our treadmill reviews are honest, unbiased reviews. We will never accept payment to promote a treadmill. We do earn a small commission if you purchase a treadmill through our links at no cost to our readers.
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awesome review!
I’m seriously considering purchasing it within the next day or two. Sole website is offering a mat for it. The price is $74.99. Do you recommend it?
Joseph,
Thanks! Yes, we love treadmill mats. A mat is especially helpful if you have wood floors or other flooring surface that may be impacted by the treadmill. The Sole F63 isn’t too heavy, and it is well constructed with a secure frame. However, a mat helps reduce vibration on your floor. It also holds the treadmill in place. Occasionally a treadmill may shift just a bit when someone is running and a mat prevents this. Certainly it is based on your needs and budget, but we find a treadmill mat to be a helpful accessory. Best of luck!
Hi, can you recommend F63 for 2-3hrs of continues running at around 6-8mph
Joshua,
That’s a lot of running on the F63. That’s probably more training than we would recommend on the F63. Another option would be the Sole F80 or NordicTrack 1750 if you plan to do that much high speed running. The 1750 has a bit more cushioning in the deck to support joint impact as well. Good luck!
is this treadmill OK for interval and hill running – usually 1 hour or less at 2-3x/week. one user at 280 lbs or if you recommend the F80
Frank,
Interval and hill running are challenging on both the runner and treadmill. The F63 is well built and will support your weight no problem, but the deck cushioning may be insufficient for this kind of training. If you have the budget, we’d recommend the F80. It has more deck cushioning so it will provide more impact absorption for those high-intensity workouts. Good luck!
Will this treadmill allow for a slower runner at approximately 6 mph for 30 minutes a few times a week. I am a slower runner, so nothing fancy. Just want to make sure this treadmill will support me.
You should be fine. The F63 motor will support that amount of running just fine. If you want a bit more cushioning in the deck, you could upgrade to the Sole F80 or NordicTrack 1750, they both provide more cushioning underfoot. But for 30min at a 6mph pace a few times a week, the F63 will work fine. It just may not feel as cushioned as other treadmills.
I run 7 days a week at a 3% incline 8.5 miles per hour. Will this treadmill handle that type of a regular and still in use
Vee,
The Sole F63 should support that degree of running. If you want to upgrade, the Sole F80 or F85 are both good options as well and will easily support your usage and pace.
I run 45 minutes 3 days a week. I usually run around 8.3 mph with no incline, and will do about 7-8 minutes of 7% incline at 8.0 mph in each run. Would the F63 hold up to this use?
Mike,
The F63 is a good machine but it is best for walking or light jogging. Based on your usage we recommend looking at the F80. The F63 has a 3.0HP motor and the F80 jumps to a 3.5HP motor. Since you run consistently, the F80 may hold up better and provide the motor power you need. There is also a bit more cushioning in the deck for longer runs.
Thanks for the informative review. One thing that a little confusing on this site and others like it is what your definition of a “serious runner” is compared to a “light runner,” “jogger,” or “walker.”
My wife and I are considering this machine and as with others, I wonder if you would recommend this F63 based on our general workout routines:
her – approximately 4 miles at low incline (.5/1.0) at midrange speed (6.0 – 6.5) three times per week
me – 5ks at low incline (1.0 – 2.0) at speeds ranging from 6.5 – 9.0 three times per week
Will the F63 be able to handle this workload? We are also looking at the Horizon T303 as well as higher end models like ProForm Smart 2000 and Sole F80, but we’d love to save some cash if the F63 would suit us.
Moose,
Based on your projected usage, we’d probably recommend the Sole F80 or NordicTrack 1750. Both provide more cushioning in the deck and have larger motors. The F63 is great for walking or maybe some light jogging but you and your wife both run a respectable amount and you may benefit from a more powerful motor and more cushioned deck.
I know it’s a jump in price, but check out the NordicTrack 1750 review here and the Sole F80 review here. These are our best treadmills for the amount of running you plan to do.
thanks, Kristen!
Would you rank the 1750 and F80 above the ProForm 2000, as well?
We rank the 1750 above the ProForm 2000. The 1750 is more in line with the ProForm 5000. The 1750 is on par with the F80 for motor power and durability, but the 1750 has more cushioning in the deck, a touchscreen, and also descends to a -3% grade which the F80 does not.
Can the F63 be placed in a garage? Note: My garage is insolated
Yes, the Sole F63 will work just fine in an insulated garage.
is the F63 okay for placement on the top floor (carpet) of an apartment building? Would you recommend buying a mat for the treadmill to lower noise and impact. I plan on walking and light jogging on the treadmill.
Thanks
SC,
The Sole F63 should be fine on an upper floor. We always recommend using a treadmill mat as this will both protect your flooring and reduce noise. If you do plan to use it on an upper floor, we recommend carrying it upstairs in the original box and then assembling it in the room you plan to use it. Don’t assemble it downstairs and then try to move it upstairs — they are very heavy and awkward to move after assembly.
Sir can I use sole f63 for one hour walk at 5mph।will it deteriorate the motor fast। I have been told that DC motors in sole and TUNTURI can not be used for more than continous use of 45 mins।is that so??kindly reply।।।
The Sole F63 motor should support one hour of walking just fine. The motor is powerful and durable, so one hour of walking would be no problem.
I will only use this 90% of the time for walking without incline at 3.5 mph. for about 30 min.
My 13 year old will use if for jogging.
Would you recommend the F63 or Horizon 7.0 AT.
Is the cushioning significantly better on the horizon ?
Does the durability of the F63 make it a better choice than the better cushioned horizon ?
Roger,
The cushioning on the Horizon is better but Sole has a reputation for outstanding durability — however, both machines have a full lifetime warranty on the frame. If cushioning is your concern, we’d recommend the Horizon. A little extra cushion goes a long way. Otherwise, they both have the same size motor at 3.0HP, the same size deck, and offer Bluetooth functionality, so you can’t go wrong with either one.
Do you have any comparisons between F65 & F80?
Just walking 6 maybe 7mph few times a week for an hour.
Nick,
We don’t have a head-to-head comparison of those two. But we do have an individual review of the Sole F65 here.
The Sole F80 offers you a bit more motor power and is Sole’s top selling treadmill due to the price to quality ratio. You get the most bang for your buck with the F80. It has a larger motor and so it is better for homes with multiple users or those who plan to run regularly (rather than jog or walk). It is priced at $1599 which is just $200 more than the F65 at $1399. For the $200 difference, we highly recommend the Sole F80. But you can’t really go wrong with either one!
Warranty on the Sole F63 Treadmill?
Adelord,
The Sole F63 has a full lifetime warranty on the frame and motor and 3 years on deck, electronics and parts.
The Sole F63 requires any special electric requires or a regular electric plug will be sufficient? The user manual doesn’t say anything about the electric supply requirements.
Kiran,
The Sole F63 can be plugged into a standard wall outlet. We recommend using a dedicated outlet for any large workout equipment, but it does not have any special considerations regarding electrical supply or wattage.
Hi, My Husband and I looking into F63, but was wondering with purchasing this do we have to Assemble this ourselves, or would you recommend to looking to have someone come and do it for us?
Amanda,
The F63 does require some assembly, but it’s not difficult. We recommend two people work together to assemble it. One person can stabilize each part while the other attaches it via the included screws. It isn’t difficult but it’s easier with two people.
How is the Sole F63 compares to the Horizon T101?
John,
The Sole F63 has a 3.0 horsepower motor while the Horizon T101 only has a 2.5 horsepower motor. They are comparable otherwise, but we’d recommend the Sole F63 due to the larger motor.
What are the dimensions when the sole F63 is folded?
Maria,
The Sole F63 is 33″ wide, 68″ high and 43″ deep when folded.
I jog 3 times per week about 3-4 miles at a time at about 6 to 6.5 mph. I was wondering what your recommendation would be between a T202 and a F63. I am about 140 lbs. My 170 lb husband claims he will use it too but I’m skeptical ;). He would go at 6 mph or less, I’m guessing.
JP,
Either the Horizon T202 or Sole F63 would be a good option. We like the Sole F63 because you get higher incline (15% rather than 12%) and a larger motor (3.0HP rather than 2.75HP). We always recommend users look for a treadmill that is at least 3.0HP if you plan to mostly run. For walking, a motor under 3.0HP is fine, but the larger motors handle speeds and distances better over time. Based on your anticipated usage we’d recommend the Sole F63.
Hi, my wife and I are considering the f63 or the f80. Right now it looks like there is a $600 difference between the two. Based on our workouts can you recommend one of them for us.
Mine: 4 times a week. At 6.5-7.5mph for about 30 minute. Maybe up to 40. No incline
Wife: wants to walk a probably 2-3 times a week for 15-20 minutes at 2-3mph
Aaron,
Based on your usage, we’d recommend the F80. It is more powerful and has a more cushioned deck, so for both running and walking, it will perform better and be more comfortable.
Hi, thank you for your informative website. I’m also impressed that you respond to each and every question here. Like many, I’m deciding between the F63 and the F80. I understand the clear difference between the motor sizes, and I was able to test them both. They were both very solid and smooth; it’s hard to describe precisely, but as a larger guy, I did notice that power difference slightly at lower speeds. Deck width difference was noticeable but not important to me. In fact, I think I preferred the narrower setup.
My question is about the cushioning. You’ve stated in a few of your responses that the F80 has more cushioning. That wasn’t obvious to me when I tested them, but then I just walked on each for a minute or two. Do you think the difference in cushioning would stand out more over time? I only walk (about an hour five days a week, but will extend one or two of those up to 1.5 or 2 hours).
There’s a remote chance I’ll add running later, if I hit my weight goal. In that case, I think I’d be better off with the F80. If you think that difference would be apparent over time even just walking, then I think it makes choosing the F80 a slam-dunk. Thank you for your time and guidance.
Tim,
You clearly have done your research! Testing out a treadmill at a local retail store is the best way to get an idea of how it really feels and functions. We do find the F80 has more cushioning than the F63 with the F85 being a step up from that. We recommend buyers consider the cushioning since the longer you are on the treadmill the more it will matter. For those who need the more impact absorption, the added cushion will make it so you can walk/run for longer without discomfort.
However, that being said, the F63 is a fantastic machine. Sole builds quality treadmills, so you can’t really go wrong with either one. Good luck with your search!
Hello,
I was planning on purchasing the F63 because I will be walking twice a day 5-6 days a week (30-45 minutes). However, I will be adding running intervals to my workouts. Would the F80 be more suitable or will the F63 be sufficient?
Michelle,
If you can afford the upgrade, the F80 is a big step up from the F63. Both are quality machines and will provide the training you need, but the F80 has more cushioning and a larger motor so it’s better for running and intervals.
I’m looking at the Sole f63 vs Horizon 7.0. If I will be using it 90% for running, 10% walking, would you recommend the Sole because of better durability?
Both Sole and Horizon build durable machines, so that’s not an issue. The console layout on the Sole is a little easier to navigate. Otherwise, they’re both good treadmills.
I’m just a walker, in the range of 5 miles a day, will the F63 hulls up to that over time?
Alice,
Yes! The F63 would be perfect.
I have only a few options for placement of my treadmill, and my preferred placement would be right in front of the sliding glass door to the balcony. Would the afternoon sun every day be bad for deck? I wonder if it would dry out the rubber or something… Thank you.
Megan,
It depends on how much sun exposure you get through the window. A little bit won’t be a problem but if it’s in the sun for several hours per day it could cause the plastic side rails to fade a bit and possibly even crack if it’s too cold or hot. You could always throw a sheet or light blanket over it during high-sun hours if you’re concerned.
I walk for 2 hours at a time, at 3-4 mph, 5-6 days per week. (Slow and steady wins the race, for me.) Can the F63 handle that length of continuous use time?
Yes, the F63 would be great for you!
Based on reading all your responses to comments (so helpful!), I’m solidly on the cusp of needing the F80 over the F63 (as in I’m confident you’d recommend it but I want to reaaaaly make sure it’s worth the extra expense), so I’m curious to know more about the motor since that seems to be the determining factor. What is the main downside of the F63? Especially since the warranty is so good, my logic is telling me just replace the motor if need be. Am I thinking about this wrong?
For context, my husband and I collectively certainly run fewer than the 30 miles/week you referenced in your review (bad knees so like the cushion tech). I run 2x between 4-5 miles aiming for sub 8 min pace (1 of those is usually intervals) and my husband runs 2-3x but he maxes out around 3 miles closer to 9 mins pace.
Kaitlin,
Yes, it sounds like the F80 would be a fantastic choice for your family.
Thanks! But shoot, I already went with the F63 before I saw your response. Do you think that’s a major concern, or rather what’s the possible downside?
No, you’ll be fine with either one. The F80 has a touch more cushioning but really the F63 is a great treadmill – and it has a smaller footprint which is nice.
Hi, I noticed that the dimension particularly height of F63 (only 57″) is lower than other treadmills. I am 5′ 6″ so I assume it might be an issue for taller people but I wonder if you have noticed any problem with this low height (consequently low handles and console).
Amir,
No, the height feels okay on the F63 for multiple sized users. You shouldn’t find it to be overly low.
Lost 20 pounds since February weigh 295. I do 3 miles at 4.0 mph walking and i like to sprint the last quarter mile 5 days a week. My daughter weighs 60 lbs and does 1.5 miles walking 4 times a week. And my wife weighs 190 lbs and does 30 minute workouts 4 times a week where she does every range (walking, jogging, running and sprinting) I really want a Sole and the F63 is what i would like to spend. Is this possible or do I have to get the Horizon 7.0 AT?
Brian,
The Sole F63 is a great machine. I prefer it to the Horizon 7.0. It should support your household training just fine. The F63 has a 325lb weight capacity and strong 3.0 motor. It will work great for you.
Right now, the Proform 1200, the Horizon 7.0 and the Sole F63 are all $1000 at various websites. I like the Proform but wonder why their warranty is subpar (1 year vs. lifetime on the motor). It seems as the Horizon may have a more forgiving running surface than the F63 and I see a lot of online complaints about the Sole throwing off error codes. Anybody have thoughts on these options?
Hi Kristen, I’m researching treadmills for my mom, a mobility-reduced senior who is almost 79 and considered quite obese. She has very little cartilage in her knees and thus needs a low impact machine. She isn’t interested in any bells or whistles, just something that’s very easy to get on and off (she’s 5′ tall), easy to operate, and safe. I’m considering the Sole F63 but I’d like your opinion before I discuss it with her. Thanks!
You could also consider the Echelon Stride or Botorro R5. Those are both very compact and fold flat. They will take up less space and have a lower step-up height. The Sole F63 is also a great option. It is durable and sturdy and is easy to operate.