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For many, running takes a lot of motivation. Yet for others, motivation is not a factor — location is. Thanks to products like the SOLE F80, you can have the best of both worlds.
Some are quick to admit that running falls short of desirable workout options. In fact, running can often become monotonous with the same routes and playlists on repeat. Fortunately, today’s technologically-advanced treadmills engage you and help you work out with interactive apps and modern sound systems.
On the other hand, some people have no idea what we’re talking about. Running is a necessity for its physical and mental benefits. Sometimes our biggest hurdle is the weather. Many of us must contend with changing seasons and temperamental weather — not very conducive to running on a daily basis. Here is where treadmills like the SOLE F80 save the day.
The History of SOLE Treadmills
Believe it or not, there was a time when you could only find a treadmill in a hotel or gym. In fact, this is where SOLE began. Soon, they made the switch to residential sales. The result? You can now have equipped, powerful, and affordable machines in your house.
The SOLE F80
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One such reliable and affordable product is the featured product in this SOLE F80 review. The F80 is one of the company’s newest and most advanced options.
Run “smart”
Nowadays, nearly every device we own is a “smart” device. Why should your treadmill be any different? The SOLE F80 offers innovative ways to enhance your workout.
First, the F80 model boasts a new integrated tablet holder. You now have a secure space to place your tablet while you exercise. So, you can binge your favorite Netflix show or catch up on your Kindle readings.
Additionally, you can rock out to your favorite running playlist using the Bluetooth audio speakers. And you can charge nearly any outside device using its USB port — a smart feature not every treadmill includes!
Track your run
In addition to its “smart” features, the F80 boasts a large, vibrant LCD display. This 9-inch screen is an upgrade from its earlier models. Note that this screen is not touchscreen like other products on the market.
However, you can easily track important stats on its practical display without the fuss. For example, you can track your distance traveled, calories burned, heart rate, pulse, and pace.
Users up to 375 pounds can safely use this machine. And the F80 keeps you cool with its built-in cooling fans.
How you run
The F80 has a lot going on above the surface. But does it perform beneath the surface? It most certainly does!
The featured product in this SOLE F80 review runs on a 3.5 horsepower motor. That means you have a reliable, powerful, and quiet machine under your feet.
Also, its flywheels and rollers reduce friction for a quieter, smoother run. For those who put the F80 in their homes, this is an incredibly important feature.
Furthermore, the F80 keeps your health in mind with its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck. This unique feature reduces joint impact by 40 percent, ultimately protecting your joints longer.
Additionally, the SOLE F80 uses a 2-ply belt to help you run up to 12 miles per hour. This size belt means a more durable belt for you to run on. With the F80, you can also intensify your workout with incline levels varying between 0 and 15.
Lastly, the F80 also features an Easy Assist Folding Deck Design, meaning you can safely and easily fold up and store your treadmill.
Pros
- Affordable cost
- Improved technology compared to previous models
- SOLE’s trusted reputation
Cons
- LCD screen and not HD or touchscreen
- SOLE website poorly advertises all the F80 has to offer
How We Prepared the SOLE F80 Review
In order to bring you the most comprehensive SOLE F80 review, much research went not only into the featured product but into its competition as well.
First, we got to know the SOLE F80. We studied various websites to understand what this new treadmill has to offer. Additionally, we explored what trustworthy sites have to say about SOLE as a brand. After that, we focused on how others reviewed the F80 specifically. Here, websites devoted to product reviews helped greatly.
With background knowledge on the F80 under our belt, we ventured to competitor products. We certainly didn’t find it helpful to compare apples to oranges, so we found similar models for you.
After a budget was set, we considered what trustworthy publications like Business Insider had to say about the SOLE and its competition.
In the end, we present a loaded SOLE F80 review backed by credible websites and trustworthy opinions.
Competitors in It for the Long Run
Fortunately, you have a wide range of options if you want to purchase a treadmill. But we don’t want you to feel overwhelmed with the possibilities. So here are 3 of the best treadmills and how they compare to the SOLE F80.
Bowflex BXT116 Treadmill
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First up is the Bowflex BXT116 Treadmill, which resembles and differs from the first product in this SOLE F80 review.
Technologically, the Bowflex resembles the SOLE with its Bluetooth compatibility and USB charging port. Also, it comes with an integrated sound system like the SOLE. However, the Bowflex additionally allows you to sync to its Free Results Series app to log your exercise data.
Like the SOLE, the Bowflex’s display is LCD, as opposed to HD or touchscreen. Whereas the SOLE offers a 9-inch display, the Bowflex screen is only 7.5 inches. But it does come in full color.
On it, you can monitor traditional stats. And with the grip heart rate sensors and chest strap, you can track our heart rate. Uniquely, the Bowflex allows you to adjust your “burn meter” to personalize levels to suit or push your workout.
Speaking of, the Bowflex comes with nine pre-programmed workouts from which to choose.
Beneath your feet, you run on a 3-ply belt with 3.75 CHP motor. You can run anywhere from 0 to 12 miles per hour and can adjust your incline up to 15 percent for a more intense run. Finally, the Bowflex offers Comfort Tech, which provides a softer, more absorbent impact for running.
Pros
- Nine pre-programmed workouts
- Stronger, three-ply belt
- Powerful 3.75 CHP motor
Cons
- LCD screen
- Difficult to identify what statistics the machine tracks
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
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Another solid offering is the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill.
In terms of technology, the NordicTrack resembles the SOLE and Bowflex with its Bluetooth capabilities and modern speakers. However, the NordicTrack differs greatly with its 10-inch interactive HD touchscreen.
On this impressive display, you can stream thousands of workouts using the included one-year iFit membership. Or you can kick it old school by accessing any of its 50 onboard workouts.
The virtual reality workouts also allow you to engage with trainers around the globe and take full advantage of high-powered cross-training exercises. You can engage your entire body in ways that running cannot.
The NordicTrack runs on a 3.75 CHP motor. You can go anywhere from 0 to 12 miles per hour and adjust the incline all the way up to 15 percent. Uniquely, you can even choose to run at a three percent decline. Finally, the NordicTrack offers low-impact cushioning and reduced vibration.
Pros
- Create up to four user profiles
- Interactive HD touchscreen
- Variety of onboard workouts
- Ability to run on a decline
Cons
- 300-pound capacity
- iFit membership is an additional cost after one year
ProForm 2000 Treadmill
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Finally, we have the ProForm 2000 Treadmill to round out this SOLE F80 review.
Here is another machine that offers Bluetooth speakers and EasyLife Assist to help you safely lift your machine into a storage position.
Like the NordicTrack, the ProForm offers an HD touchscreen, though at a smaller size. On its 7-inch smart screen, you can access 50 onboard workouts. Also, you can take advantage of your complimentary one-year iFit membership to revolutionize how — and even where — you run.
The ProForm runs on a 3.5 CHP motor. Like most machines, you can run anywhere from 0 to 12 miles per hour. And like the NordicTrack, you can climb to a 15 percent incline or run down to a 3 percent decline. Finally, it offers ProShox Cushioning to protect your joints.
Pros
- HD touchscreen
- Budget
Cons
- 300-pound capacity
- Smaller touchscreen
- 3.5 CHP motor
- One-ply belt
Do the Products in the SOLE F80 Review Go the Distance?
To conclude, you cannot go wrong with any of the products in this SOLE F80 review. In truth, you want to decide first what you value most in your treadmill.
For those who want a strong motor behind technologically-advanced features, go with the NordicTrack. Similarly, the ProForm offers smart capabilities but with a weaker motor and less reliable belt.
If you are someone who values stronger motors on a machine that can handle more wear and tear, the SOLE or Bowflex may be the best fit for you. Admittedly, they lack in terms of a fancy touchscreen, but some people don’t mind the simplicity of an LCD screen.
Whatever you decide, let us know in the comments below!
Featured image via Sole
