The 7 Best Sole Treadmills of 2024, Expert-Tested, Expert-Approved

Some of the best treadmills the BarBend team has tested come from Sole. With wide incline ranges, cushioned running surfaces, and integration with the free Sole+ app, these top-notch machines are a worthy addition to any athlete’s home gym. If you’re looking for more variability in your training or want to simulate the peaks and valleys of outdoor running, several options even feature decline capabilities in addition to incline. 

Choosing the right Sole treadmill can be tough, so our team of certified personal trainers, coaches, and fitness fanatics put several models to the test by firing up sprint, hill, and interval workouts to give you the lowdown on these options. Check out what our experts had to say about the best Sole treadmills.

The 7 Best Sole Treadmills of 2024

• Best Sole Treadmill Overall: Sole F80
• Best Sole Treadmill With Incline: Sole F89
• Best Budget Sole Treadmill: Sole F63
• Best Sole Treadmill for Walking: Sole F65
• Best Sole Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole TT8
• Best Sole Treadmill for Running: Sole F85
• Best Non-Folding Sole Treadmill: Sole ST90

How We Tested and Chose the Best Sole Treadmills

The BarBend team of marathon runners, certified personal trainers, and CrossFit coaches has spent years assembling and running on over 40 of the top treadmills on the market — including models from Sole Fitness. We have hands-on experience with the F63, F80, TT8, and ST90, and combined our overall experience with Sole treadmills with research into the remaining three on our list — F65, F85, and F89 — to bring you our thoughts on their highlights (and lowlights). 

In line with BarBend’s Equipment Testing Methodology, our testers assigned each model ratings of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 categories, including adjustability, ergonomics, footprint, value, and more. Here are a few of the factors we prioritized when making our list of the best Sole treadmills.

• Price: Our picks range in cost from $1,199.99 to $3,999.99. We emphasized the differences between these models and noted how much each machine earns its price tag. 
• Fitness Goals:Everyone from beginners to marathoners can get the training variety they desire from the Sole’s treadmills on our list. We worked to convey which models are best suited to specific training goals, whether that’s endurance work, brisk walks, or HIIT workouts. 
• Footprint and Portability: Treadmills can take up as much room as a two- or even three-seater sofa, so we included the exact dimensions of each model so you can make sure your new machine will fit where you need it to.

Best Sole Treadmill Overall: Sole F80

All of Sole’s treadmills reach a maximum incline of 15 percent and a top speed of 12 miles per hour, but not every model features the interactive display and approachable price tag of the F80. Being able to reach 12 miles per hour — equal to a 5-minute-mile pace — can support multiple training modalities, from sprints and intervals to long-form endurance sessions. Whether you follow a free Sole+ workout, mirror your own device, or use one of the built-in apps, the clear 10.1-inch touchscreen is your command center and content vessel.

In 2023, the console of the F80 received an upgrade that included the addition of integrated entertainment apps like Netflix and Spotify. After logging into your existing account, you can stream shows, movies, and music, but our tester, a certified personal trainer, also appreciated another capability. “The previous model didn’t even have a touchscreen, but now you can mirror anything you want from your phone or tablet,” they said. 

Many of the best treadmills with screens lock you into using (and paying for) their native apps, so even though Sole’s treadmills offer integration with their free Sole+ app, this upgrade allows you to view any fitness or streaming app you have on your device on the touchscreen. 

When our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated their workout experience a 4.5 out of 5, they specifically noted its stability. “There was essentially no wobble when I ran on this treadmill,” they said. Sole claims that its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck can reduce impact on the joints by up to 40 percent compared to asphalt. While we can’t verify that number, our tester rated the F80’s ergonomics 4 out of 5 and shouted out its cushioning. “It’s not too plush or soft, yet not hard, either.”

Three of Sole’s pricier models — the TT8, F85, and F89 — feature a -6-percent decline, but our tester still thought the incline range on the F80 offered enough variability for intense training. “I do wish it had even a -3-percent decline,” they said, rating its adjustability 4 out of 5. “However, a 15-percent incline is more than enough for an extra burn.”

Read our full Sole F80 Treadmill Review.

Best Sole Treadmill With Incline: Sole F89

Sole’s newest model — the F89 — matches the 15-percent incline on all of their models, but is one of only three to feature a (very deep) 6-percent decline. Both of these marks exceed our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto’s recommendations. “If you’re using your treadmill to train for a race (as opposed to just keeping fit), incline is a necessary feature and decline is nice to have,” she says. “Look for incline capabilities reaching 9 percent or higher. For decline, look for ranges negative 2 to 5 percent.”

Its 4.0 HP motor should be strong enough to power any hill training you want to take on. Plus, our tester, a certified personal trainer, noted that it was also very quiet. “Even when I would adjust across that big incline and decline range, it was still super quiet,” they said. “I obviously felt it raise and lower, but I barely heard it at all.”

Another eye-catching feature of the F89 is its touchscreen. Here, you can log into and stream content from its 12 preloaded apps, like Netflix or Max, as well as mirror your own device. This 21.5-inch touchscreen helped the F89 earn a 4 out of 5 for tech capabilities, but does it justify the treadmill’s $3,299 price tag? After all, that’s several hundred dollars more than even some of the best high-end treadmills we’ve tested.

Outside of the plus-sized touchscreen and $900 price increase, our tester didn’t see a major difference between the F89 and F85. “The F85 also has a -6-percent decline, so honestly, if you’re on a tighter budget, I’d say go with that,” our tester said. “But if you want a truly massive screen, the F89 clearly has the F85 beat.”

Best Budget Sole Treadmill: Sole F63

The majority of treadmills we’ve tested cost between $1,200 to $2,000, which places the Sole F63 — their most budget-friendly model — at the low end of that average range. However, it hangs with the pricier models in the lineup in terms of incline and speed ranges. Its lighter overall weight and foldable deck can also make it easier to fit in your space.

After taking on multiple running and walking workouts on this folding treadmill, certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, rated its footprint and portability 5 out of 5. “Because it’s only 156 pounds — more lightweight than the average treadmill — it could easily be tucked away,” she said, noting that lifting up the deck was aided by the hydraulics in the folding mechanism.

Even some of the best budget treadmills can cut costs by offering shorter decks with limited joint support, but the F63 features the same Cushion Flex Whisper Deck as more expensive Sole models. Meier rated its ergonomics 4.5 out of 5 and highlighted the belt. “We had testers up to 6-feet tall try it out and the deck was spacious enough for all of them,” she pointed out. “While cheaper machines use a one-ply belt, the F63’s is two-ply — a nice upgrade.”

While that length meets our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto’s recommended 60-inch length for running speeds, Meier said that once she reached those speeds, she felt some wobbling. “I like that it has a 3.0 horsepower motor, but I did feel some shaking while I was running,” she described, rating its overall durability 3 out of 5. “Definitely not a deal-breaker, but it wasn’t exactly smooth.”

On the 6.5-inch LCD display, you’ll find seven preset workouts that can provide structure to your training, but won’t necessarily offer the immersive feel of the upgraded touchscreens of Sole’s higher-end treadmills. The F63 still earned a 4.3 out of 5 for its tech capabilities from Meier, who called out its device holder, USB charging port, and Bluetooth connectivity that lets you stream your own audio.

Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review.

Best Sole Treadmill for Walking: Sole F65

If you plan on using your treadmill primarily for walking, the 15-percent incline on the Sole F65 can help intensify up your training with steep pitches. BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Kate Meier hasn’t had the chance to test the F65, but has spent a lot of time on the F63. She said there are a lot of similarities, but two small upgrades that may make a huge difference.

First, Meier appreciated the extra 2 inches of width in the deck, especially if you do decide to take it for a jog or run. “The F63’s deck is the standard 20 inches wide, but the F65 extends that width by 2 inches,” she said.

[Related: Best Walking Treadmills]

“Having a 22-inch wide belt deck is ideal for users with longer strides,” she added. “It can keep you from having to alter your stride or hitting the side rails as you walk or run.” That extra two inches, along with the 15-percent incline range, earned the F65 a 4.5 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics from Meier. 

While the F63’s 3.0 HP motor meets the power output that we recommend for a solid running treadmill, the 3.25 HP motor on the F65 has a bit more bite. Meier said that this bodes well for stability, as well as durability — a 4 out of 5. “The motor on the F65 is stronger, so I’d suspect that the transitions between speed and incline settings would be as smooth — if not smoother — than I felt on the F63.”

A few key conveniences that Meier said can make your walks more enjoyable are the cooling fan and built-in Bluetooth speakers that are standard across Sole’s lineup of treadmills. 

“On the F63, I connected my phone to play my own music and was surprised how clear the sound was,” Meier said, rating its tech capabilities and conveniences 4.3 and 4.5 out of 5, respectively.

Read our full Sole F65 Treadmill Review.

Best Sole Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole TT8

The steel frame on the Sole TT8 supports users up to 400 pounds — far exceeding the 300-pound industry standard — making it one of the best treadmills for heavy people we’ve tested. “That weight capacity will allow a lot more people to use this treadmill,” our tester — a certified personal trainer — said when they rated its durability a 4 out of 5. 

BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto also notes that when you see a high weight capacity, it can be an indication of its durability. “Treadmills with high weight capacities are naturally more durable than those with low weight capacities,” she says. “This is because they are built with higher-quality, more durable components designed to increase the efficiency of the machine and reduce stress on the motor.”

The robust 4.0 HP motor on the TT8 helped mitigate any shaking or wobbling, even when adjusting its wide -6-percent to 15-percent incline range. “For avid runners or anyone wanting to do a lot of intervals and hill work, the TT8 is ideal for that type of training,” they said. “My run felt incredibly smooth, though, and the machine was sturdy.”

However, compared to high-end models like the NordicTrack X22i, our tester thought the tech capabilities left a little to be desired. “Something like the X22i is a good comp because they are around the same price, but it’s integrated with iFIT’s top-notch programming,” they explained. 

While the TT8 isn’t integrated with any apps, you can still screen your device to its touchscreen, which allows you to view any app on your phone or tablet on the screen. You can also access a handful of entertainment apps, like Netflix and Max. We scored the TT8’s tech a 3 out of 5. 

In terms of overall value, our tester scored the TT8 a 4 out of 5. “I really enjoyed running on this machine, but the cost is really high, especially considering there isn’t much tech involved,” they said.

Read our full Sole TT8 Treadmill Review.

Best Sole Treadmill for Running: Sole F85

The Sole F85 is our pick for the best running treadmill from Sole Fitness due to its roomy and cushioned deck, strong motor, and durable build, all of which support sprint and HIIT workouts. Our tester — a CrossFit Level-1 trainer — has extensive experience on the smaller F63, but based on what they see, the F85 looks like a beast of a running treadmill. They rated its overall value 4 out of 5.

“Its 4.0 HP motor and 400-pound weight capacity are both 33-percent higher than average,” they said. On the best treadmills for running, a powerful motor works to support smoother transitions across a treadmill’s incline and speed ranges. 

Our tester noted that decline capabilities can help mimic outdoor terrain, and also that decline training targets different muscles than incline work. “Having a 6-percent decline can help you strengthen your quads,” they noted, rating its customizations a 4.5 out of 5.

The F85’s running deck is 2 inches wider than the 20-inch standard width, and it features Sole’s Cushion Flex Whisper deck, which can help take some of the impact off your joints. And if you need a bit of structure in your running workouts, there are 10 preset programs loaded on the 15.6-inch touchscreen. 

You can also mirror your own device to follow along with other training apps. It also comes integrated with seven streamers, like YouTube and Netflix, if you’d rather zone out with a show or movie.

All these features start to add up, though, and its overall weight of 294 pounds means it’s probably better off staying in one spot. “It’s got Sole’s hydraulic folding mechanism to raise and lower the deck, but it’s still heavy,” our tester said, rating its portability 3.5 out of 5.

Read our full Sole F85 Treadmill Review.

Best Non-Folding Sole Treadmill: Sole ST90

The hybrid design of Sole’s priciest model — the ST90 — combines the functionality of a traditional motorized treadmill with the slatted belt and user-powered operation of a manual treadmill. “Basically, you can disengage the motor and use it as a manual treadmill just by clicking ‘Free Mode,” they explained. This functionality requires a hefty, super-sturdy frame, so don’t expect the ST90 to fold up when not in use. 

Switching into the manual mode is useful for interval training, as you can speed up and slow down faster than you would on an electric treadmill. Conversely, a motorized experience is ideal for endurance training since you can set your target pace.

In practice, our tester thought that running in Free Mode didn’t live up to the feel of some of the best curved treadmills we’ve tested. “I really liked this feature, but to get the belt moving, I had to raise the incline to gain a little traction,” they said. “It feels closer to a sled push than a typical manual treadmill.” The ST90 earned a 4 out of 5 for adjustability.

Many manual treadmills feature curved decks that allow you to leverage gravity to create the momentum that spins the belt. Raising the incline on the ST90 — which can reach 15-percent in motorized mode and 8-percent in Free Mode — has a similar effect. 

Our tester also noted that in both motorized and Free Mode the belt itself provided plenty of support. “It’s a super cushioned belt deck and it felt like the combination of a traditional deck cushioning with the manual design of something like the AssaultRunner Elite,” they said, scoring it a 4 out of 5 for ergonomics. 

We also like that, unlike many manual treadmills, this model has a 15.6-inch touchscreen with mirroring capabilities and access to streaming apps like Netflix. 

However, the ST90 has a weaker warranty than Sole’s other treadmills. Sole’s other treadmills come with lifetime frame and motor warranties, but the ST90 comes with just five years on the frame and motor. 

When they factored in the price, our tester wasn’t sure that this unique tread is for everyone. “At $4,000, this thing is expensive,” they said. “The warranty also doesn’t match the price, so just make sure it fits your training regimen and budget.”

Read our full Sole ST90 Treadmill Review.

Benefits of the Best Sole Treadmills

Along with the diverse training possibilities made possible by Sole’s lineup of treadmills, BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto highlighted how the convenience of bringing home your own machine could help you stick to your routine. “Home treadmills offer the opportunity to run and walk in the comfort of your own home,” she says. “Having a treadmill at home may encourage a person to exercise more frequently, which is almost always a good thing.”

• Training Capabilities: Every Sole treadmill can reach speeds of at least 12 miles per hour and inclines of 15 percent, with some even offering a decline of -6 percent. This kind of functionality supports all kinds of training, from HIIT, hill, and sprint work to LISS and endurance. 
• Roomy, Cushioned Belt Decks: All Sole treadmills meet the belt deck length that our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto recommends. “A comfortable deck… for running, and especially sprinting, [should be] 20 inches wide by 60 inches long.”
• Warranty: Except for the ST90, all Sole treadmills include lifetime frame and motor warranties, offering the peace of mind that machine will be with you for the long haul. 

How Much Do the Best Sole Treadmills Cost?

Sole cardio machines can support just about any treadmill workout you’d desire, and the diversity of their lineup is reflected in the price range. While every model features 15-percent incline and a top speed of 12 miles per hour, only the pricier options offer decline capability and built-in touchscreens. Take a look at this chart to see where each treadmill lands within the $1,199.99 to $3,999.99 range.

Best Sole Treadmill Overall	Sole F80	$1,899.99
Best Sole Treadmill With Incline	Sole F89	$3,299.99
Best Budget Sole Treadmill	Sole F63	$1,199.99
Best Sole Treadmill for Walking	Sole F65	$1,499.99
Best Sole Treadmill for Heavy People	Sole TT8	$2,899,99
Best Sole Treadmill for Running	Sole F85	$2,399.99
Best Non-Folding Sole Treadmill	Sole ST90	$3,999.99

What to Consider Before Buying the Best Sole Treadmills

According to BarBend’s expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, it’s crucial to have an idea of the available features and capabilities of treadmills like those in Sole’s lineup before committing to one. “Any treadmill can suffice for walking and maybe light jogging, but not every treadmill will perform for running, sprinting, and hill training,” she says.

“Treadmills come in motorized and manual options; with and without touchscreen displays; large and compact models; tech-infused and basic designs,” Capritto adds. “Finding a treadmill that’s just right for your needs — your Goldilocks — will require some research and knowledge of treadmill specifications.”

Tech Capabilities  

Five of Sole’s seven treadmills feature a touchscreen that comes preloaded with apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime video. Some of them also offer mirroring capabilities, which means you can stream content from the best fitness apps right on the console. 

Capritto thinks the technology onboard high-end models like these can help make your training more engaging. “These smart treadmills are more expensive, but the immersive component can keep you motivated to exercise. I wouldn’t call it a necessity, but it’s definitely a fun perk.”

Incline and Decline 

While all Sole treadmills feature a 0- to 15-percent incline range, Capritto recommends considering whether you really need to splurge for a model that offers decline. “If you plan to use your treadmill to train for outdoor events such as a marathon or a hike, incline is essential,” she says. Downhill running necessitates shorter, quicker strides to control your pace and keep your balance, while targeting the quadriceps.

Capritto also points out that this function is somewhat rare for treadmills. “Decline functionality is far less common, but is available on higher-end machines, down to negative 3-5 percent.” While the NordicTrack X22i matches the -6-percent decline of Sole’s TT8, F85, and F89 models, its $3,499 price tag eclipses those three by $200 to $1,600. Only a handful of models we have tested feature even a 3-percent decline and they typically come in around $2,000 — the top of the average range of $1,200 to $2,000 we usually see for treadmills. 

Footprint and Portability 

Sole’s treadmills are not known for being compact, but the hydraulic-assisted folding decks on some models can help reduce their footprint when not in use. Capritto also says to grab your tape measure before bringing home one of these treadmills. “Check the overall length, width, and height of the machine in its assembled position and folded position if applicable. And triple-measure your space to make sure it will fit!” she says. 

Best Sole Treadmills FAQs