Expert Contributor: Maya Transoloski

Reviewed by: Jay. D

If you want a heavy-duty beast of a treadmill in this price range, you have a few options. You could go for the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill, a 300-lb solid machine. However, their customer service is just scary, and all their treadmills need updating.

You also have NordicTrack with their commercial series, which are by far the best treadmills NordicTrack offers. Still, to get the most out of their treadmills, you’re tied to paying for iFit, costing a hefty $40 a month and something not all of us want to pay for. Also, this is another company known for some of the worst customer service in the industry.

Then you have Sole Fitness. These guys have the best customer service of all three companies and an impressive history of making heavy-duty machines.

Their flagship treadmill, the Sole F85 Treadmill, has been, for a long time, the best heavy-duty treadmill in this price range. Offering even more bang for your buck than NordicTrack’s flagship treadmill, the Commercial 1750.

Sole Fitness Has The History

What I’ve always liked about Sole Fitness is their history of making semi-commercial and commercial fitness products. For years, these guys produced treadmills and ellipticals for gyms and hotels. Since then, they have branched out and now make a ton of fitness gear for home use. They have taken all their previous experience and put it into the products they sell to the public today.

You can really see and feel that experience in the heavy-duty gear they sell for home use, like the F85 and F89 treadmills. These are beasts—solid, durable machines that can take pretty much anything you can throw at them.

side view of sole fitness F85 treadmill

I first reviewed the F85 over five years ago and have since reviewed it each time it’s updated. And with every update, this treadmill gets even more impressive.

The latest update is here, and it looks to be a good one. The frame has changed slightly, and we have many more options with the monitor. So today I want to dive deep and take a look at everything the Sole F85 has to offer, including any drawbacks.

At the end of the review, I’ll compare the Sole F85 with Horizons 7.8 AT and NordicTrack’s Commercial 1750 in a little more detail, as it will be interesting to see how all three match up.

First a quick look at the Sole F85 treadmill product specs!

Product Specifications

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Product dimensions –  82.5″L x 38″W x 66″H inches – Folded 44″L x 38″W x 71.5″H

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Weight – 294lb

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Speed – 0.5 – 12mph

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Max user height – 6’3″

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Anti-shock system

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Folds for storage

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Motor – 4HP

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Weight capcacity – 375lb

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Running belt size – 22” X 60″

Why Do We Like The Sole F85?

I love that Sole Fitness gave the Sole F85 treadmill its third update. It was nothing major, as it was impressive before, but it needed a better console. The F85 now has a 15.5″ screen, seven built-in apps, including YouTube and Netflix, and screen mirroring.

It’s the only treadmill in this price range that allows you to use the screen for something other than workout programs, which is a cool feature to have.

sole f85 treadmill monitor 7 apps

Heavy Gauge Steel Frame

But the screen isn’t this treadmill’s best feature. As I mentioned in the intro, it’s the build quality that shines with the Sole F85.

This treadmill’s heavy-duty build is what sells it. The heavy-gauge all steel frame of the  F85 gives it a solid feel.

There’s no movement when running on the F85, which is what you want from a home treadmill; you want to get as close to the feel of a commercial treadmill for your money as you can. Yes, it might not be commercial grade, but it’s as close as you’ll get for around $2k.

Suitable For Users Up To 6’4″

The running belt is commercial-size, which is the size you want. A 60″ running belt will allow users up to 6’3″ to run on the treadmill.

The running belt is also wide, which is essential for fast-paced sessions. You’ll need that extra room. You don’t feel scared on the F85 that you might step off the side of the belt in the middle of a session. That 22″ width gives you the confidence to run at pace without feeling restricted.

You won’t find a larger belt than this on any treadmill in this price range. This is as good as it gets.

15% – 15 Level Incline and 6-Level Decline: Best in Class

The 15% 15-level auto incline feature of the Sole F85 treadmill was already one of its most impressive features and one of the best I’ve come across on any treadmill, and I’ve been reviewing these things for 10 years. Still, with the recent update, Sole has thrown in a decline option, with 6 levels of decline which is great to see.

Adjusting the incline and decline levels is easy. You can use the large one-touch buttons next to the screen or the handy quick-access buttons built into the front handlebar.

I found the handlebar controls to be the best option when you’re running, as they save you from having to reach forward to the console to adjust the incline level.

Double Calorie Burn – Build and Strengthen Leg And Core Muscles (Hill Running)

I’ve always said that when choosing a treadmill, you must choose one with an incline feature. An incline feature adds so much more to your workouts, jogging or running, even on a 10% incline, will double your calorie burn.

You’ll also work to tone and strengthen hard-to-train muscles, such as your glutes, calves, and hamstrings.

Plus, you have a 6% decline with this treadmill: walking or jogging downhill also has its benefits, including improving balance and strengthening muscles like your glutes, quads, shins, and core.

As you can see, owning a running machine that offers an adjustable incline is an essential feature if you want to get the most from your cardio sessions. And F85’s incline/decline is the best in its class.

sole f85 updated monitor showing sole+app

New & Improved Control Console 15.6″ Screen with Built-in Apps

The best thing about Sole Monitors, in general, is that they’re always nice and easy to use. Nothing is too complicated, there’s no annoying menus to scroll through. It doesn’t take half an hour to sort out before you can run on the treadmill.

Even though Sole recently updated this monitor with quite a few extra features, it’s still fairly basic for a treadmill in this price range, which is a good thing—no one wants an overly complicated monitor.

All The Good From The Previous Version

So the new monitor includes all the good stuff from the last version, such as the built-in workout programs (10 pre-programmed, 12
user-defined) the quick touch buttons for adjusting incline and speed. Bluetooth speakers, tablet and deep cup holders, and one feature I’m so glad they kept in: the 1/4 mile feature. The 1/4 mile is useful if you’re in training and a feature, not many treadmills include.

So, with the update, you now have a larger screen; the previous one was 10 inches, and this one measures 15.5 inches.

15 inches is large enough. I don’t think you’d want or need anything larger than this. Some people choose treadmills with 22″ screens, which is just overkill and really hikes the price up. 15″ is more than enough for a treadmill.

This is another reason I like Sole Fitness. They don’t go crazy about the tech and forget about the essentials, as so many companies seem to do lately.

Sole instead focuses on the build. It’s a company that puts the build quality and the essentials first rather than the tech first. So, while the monitor of this treadmill did need a little update, it’s nothing major and costly.

The update includes 7 built-in apps, such as YouTube and Netflix—the only treadmill in this price range to offer this feature.

Also, there’s screen mirroring, so you can mirror your phone screen. What’s cool is that Sole Fitness has updated its running app, and you now have access to the Sole+ app with this version of the F85 treadmill.

The Sole+ app includes 100s of workouts and global routes and a ton of other stuff. Plus, you can download all your workout stats.

Lastly, there are built-in handlebar pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring. Sole hasn’t offered the free heart rate chest strap for wireless heart rate monitoring with this treadmill version, which is disappointing! 

Still, apart from the lack of a chest strap, the improved monitor is a nice update and something the F85 lacked over the years.

sole f85 treadmill soft drop folding system

Can Be Folded With One Hand

The F85 comes equipped with a hydraulic assist system, which makes folding and unfolding the treadmill almost effortless. It’s so easy it can be folded with one hand, the deck also locks securely in place when folded for child safety.

A folding feature is essential for a large treadmill, especially if you do not have room to store the treadmill permanently. Still, even when folded, it’s pretty long, around 70,” so make sure to measure out space before buying.

Deck Cushioning – Protect Joints

All decent treadmills should provide a deck cushioning system, and you’ll be happy to hear Sole provides one of the best on the market.

Their deck cushioning system ‘CushionFlex Whisper Deck’ reduces joint impact by up to 40% compared to outdoor training surfaces.

 In addition to cushioning the impact of running, Sole’s top treadmill deck muffles the sound of running to be more home-friendly.

Impressive Warranty

A long warranty is a telling sign that not only is Sole a company that stands behind their products, but also this machine is made from high-quality materials that will stand the test of time.

Many users have praised the build quality of the Sole F85 Folding treadmill  and have compared the machine to ones they have used in their local gym, saying the F85 felt solid and built to a high standard.

The warranty includes a lifetime of frame motor and deck, plus 5 years on parts and 2 years of labor, this should fill you with a lot of confidence that should anything go wrong in the future, you are covered.

And if the Sole F85 does breakdown, you won’t have to ship it back, these guys come to your home and repair the machine there.

Easy Assembly Under 1 Hour

The assembly of the Sole F85 treadmill isn’t complicated, but some parts are heavy, so you might need another person to help you. The deck and monitor already come pre-assembled. All you have to do is add the lateral posts and the console, connect the sensors and control cables and finally attach the beverage holder.

For maintenance, you’ll need to keep the deck and belt clean and vacuum the dust that might accumulate under the treadmill, especially under its motor. The belt and deck also require periodic lubrication.

The treadmill comes with a tube of lubricant, and any future lubricant bought for the treadmill should only be lubricant approved by sole fitness for use on their treadmills.

floor mat for treadmill

Do I need a Treadmill Mat?

One main reason people buy a treadmill mat is to stop the treadmill from sliding on polished floors; a treadmill mat gives some extra stability. Still, this is a heavy treadmill, so you shouldn’t have any trouble with it moving around when exercising.

You might want to buy a treadmill mat to protect your polished floors from scratches. Also, if you live in an apartment, then a treadmill mat might be an essential buy as the mat will help absorb some of the vibration caused by your workouts.

Sunny Health & Fitness makes some of the best treadmill mats, and they’re affordable. Click the link below to check prices on Amazon.

Sunny Health & Fitness Large Treadmill Mat

The Good

Solid build supports up to 375lb

Commerical sized running belt 22″ x 60″ suitable for users up to 6’4″

Updated monitor now with 15.5″ screen, 7 apps, workouts programs and access to Sole+ App

Impressive 15% 15 level power adjustable incline and 6 level decline

Quick touch bottons

Easy to set up and use

Soft drop folding system – hydraulics do all the work for you

Built in transport wheels

The Bad

Cushioning system is slightly harder than some systems – however some may find this a good thing

The monitor is pretty basic compared to its competitors, but this is something I liked. Keeps things simple and easy to use.

Workout fans are weak, a common problem with most treadmills

                                                                                         

Alternatives

man running on Horizon 7.8AT Treadmill side view

Horizon 7.8AT Treadmill

Despite their poor customer service, I am a fan of Horizons Treadmills. I like that these guys, just like Sole Fitness, don’t go too crazy on the techy stuff. They really do concentrate on the build and the essentials first, which is what I like to see.

Priced at just under $2k, the Horizon 7.8AT offers a lot for the money. At 330lb, it is another heavy beast of a treadmill. It’s a solid machine, and that’s why customers love it. Because of its substantial weight, it feels almost commercial grade.

Also, that weight is a telling sign this treadmill is made from high-quality parts.

Yeah its a pain to move a treadmill this heavy, still its worth it if you’re serious about your cardio and want a durable heavy duty machine.

The running belt measures 22″ x 60″, so you have the commercial-size belt, which will allow users with a height of up to 6’3″ to run comfortably on this treadmill without feeling restricted.

The 7.8AT boasts a 15%—15-level power-adjustable incline, which is more than enough for hill running, but sadly, there’s no decline. You can adjust the incline via the monitor’s quick-touch buttons or the handlebar rollers.

I have always been impressed by the handlebar rollers on the Horizon treadmills. They are so easy and quick to use.

The quick dial rollers are a cool feature I’ve only seen on treadmills from Horizon. On the left-hand side of the handlebars, you can roll a dial forward to increase and decrease the incline level, and on the other side of the handlebar, you can roll the dial forward and back to adjust speed. Nice.

But what I liked most about the 7.8 AT is its power and its powerful machine. Horizon always uses heavy-duty treadmill motors, and the one used in this version of the 7.8 AT is their best. With a 4CHP peaking at around 6HP, this motor can cope with any type of workout. Best of all, it’s smooth and so quiet. If you’re a runner,, you’ll love this motor.

Overall, this is a very impressive treadmill. Yeah, the monitor is a little dated and lacks features. There’s no HD screen with this one, and there are no built-in apps. Still, Horizon treadmills work great with Zwift and KinoMap, so at least you have a few options for connecting with some running apps.

                                                                                         

3 NordicTrack track commercial treadmills

NordicTrack Commerical Treadmill 1750

NordicTrack Commerical series of Treadmills have always been right up there when it comes to quality.

This series of treadmills is the Diamond in the Rough at NordicTrack.

Sometimes, this company can be faulted for being too techy and forgetting about important things like build quality, etc., but not with their commercial series of treadmills. They’re different. These machines are impressive allrounders, particularly the 1750 commercial treadmill.

1750 is not quite as heavy-duty as the Sole F85 or Horizons 7.8 AT, but it’s thereabouts, weighing 285lb out of the box, its a heavy, sturdy machine. With a decent warranty, lifetime on frame and motor, and a year on parts, which is impressive for NordicTrack, they seem to have a lot of faith in this treadmill.

There’s also a pretty good power adjustable incline at12 level 12% and a 3% decline, which is good to see. The running belt is commercial-size, and the deck cushioning system is one of the best in the industry. Yeah, NordicTrack got all the essentials right with this one.

Of course, the tech is impressive—this is NoridcTrack! It’s what they’re known for. You have iFit with thousands of workouts, which uses app control to automatically adjust your speed and incline depending on what workout or global route you choose. I’ll admit, this is a cool feature.

The screen is HD and measures 16″, it also pivots. It’s an impressive, crystal-clear screen and by far the best monitor, much more impressive than Horizon’s 7.8 AT monitor. Still, to get the most out of this monitor and the treadmill, you need to subscribe to iFit. All of NordicTrack’s fitness gear is designed around their app. It’s an excellent app, the best one I’ve come across, but at $39 a month, it’s expensive.

The 1750 is an excellent heavy-duty machine; NordicTrack focused on both the build and the tech with this treadmill, which is what we always want to see from NordicTrack. If you love running apps like iFit, this is the treadmill to go for. 1750 has impressed for years, and it’s just as good today as it was when I first reviewed back in 2017. No corners have been cut.

                                                                                         

To Sum Up

Even before the update, the Sole F85 Treadmill was the best choice in the $2k category. It’s just a more impressive treadmill than anything else on the market at this price point. There really isn’t anything I can fault about the F85 apart from the weak workout fan, but that’s about it.

With the update, it’s even more impressive. Sole’s 15″ screen is a nice touch, as is the free access to their app, Sole+.

An excellent machine for anyone who takes their cardio seriously.

(4.4/5)

JHG Score

Sole F85 Treadmill FAQS

Is Sole The Best Brand For Treadmills?

Sole is one of the best brands of treadmills for serious runners. They make high-quality, heavy-duty treadmills. However, their treadmills are more basic than those of their competitors, which is something many people like about this company. Sole concentrates its efforts on getting all of the essentials right. If you want fancy fitness apps and VR? You won’t find them on Sole Treadmills.

How Many Workout Programs Does The Sole F85 Have?

The Sole F85 has 10 fitness tests, 12 custom programs, and 6 workout programs. The monitor is also BlueTooth enabled. Users can download and track their info on the New Sole+ app for free or have their fitness data transferred to any of the following fitness apps (Fitbit, Record, Mapmyrun, Apple Health) 

Can You Watch NetFlix on The Sole F85 Folding Treadmill?

Yes. Since the Sole F85 update, the treadmill now includes a 15.5″ screen with 7 built-in apps, including Netflix, YouTube, and various news channels. This is the only monitor in this price range that allows you to watch Netflix.

Does The Sole F85 Have an Auto Incline?

The Sole F85 has one of the most impressive auto inclines on the market. It’s a 15% 15-level power incline that can be adjusted using the quick-touch buttons on the monitor or the handrail buttons.