Sole F85 Treadmill Review
Shop NowThe Sole Fitness F85 has a ton of features that make this treadmill the ideal choice for at-home exercise. The advanced built-in technology, large and ergonomic running deck, and foldable design are just some of the great things that this treadmill offers.
This machine is top-of-the-line quality, and comes with a warranty which surely backs it up. The Sole F85 is easily one of the best folding treadmills out there.
Overview & Ratings
Cardio is an important part of staying in shape. Treadmills are a great option for getting good aerobic exercise all-season – rain or shine. Running outdoors is always effective, however due to the lack of wind resistance indoors and the moving belt of the treadmill, these machines actually make running easier.
The Sole F85 is a top choice on the treadmill market for many reasons. It’s perfect for your home because it’s foldable, however, the F85 treadmill is still gym quality. It’s designed to handle difficult interval training and running long distance as well.
The deck on this treadmill is ergonomic, and has been proven to lessen the impact on your joints. It absorbs shock up to 40% better than pavement and most outdoor running surfaces, which is a common concern of many runners.
The Sole F85 provides a variety of workout programs to choose from, providing something for everyone, regardless of skill level. The tech options on this model are also impressive, and make this treadmill super modern.
The Sole F85 treadmill provides top of the line quality and is a favorite when it comes to folding treadmills. Based on our extensive analysis, we rated this product a 9.8/10.
Although we will go further in depth on what this machine does in this Sole F85 Review, here’s a video that will give you a good overview of the product: Sole F85 Treadmill Video.
Features and Specs
Intro
Dimensions
- Assembled Size: 81” x 37” x 57” (LxWxH)
- Folded Size: 45”x 37” x 72” (LxWxH)
- Weight: 276 lbs
- User Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Running Surface: 22” x 60”
- Rollers: 2.75”
- Shipping Weight: 305 lbs
Features
The Sole F85 comes with a variety of exciting features that really make it stand out. While no one feature carries the sole responsibility for the success of the machine (pun intended), we do feel that it’s all of the features together, existing harmoniously within the whole, that make it the truly exceptional machine we know it to be.
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Cushion-Flex Whisper Deck
The deck on the Sole F85 has a 22” wide surface and is one of the largest available. Not to mention, this deck is an ergonomic, Cushion-Flex Whisper Deck. It’s designed to be up to 40% easier on your joints than from running on many outdoor surfaces. This makes for a worry-free, smooth, and comfortable cardio session, while lowering risk of injury. The deck also absorbs sound while running, so you can be sure it’s very quiet.
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Strong & Durable
The Sole F85 is one of the most durable and long-lasting treadmills you can purchase for your home. It has a strong metal frame which is built to support a high weight capacity (400lbs) and more intense work outs as well. The track on the F85 also contributes to the strength of this machine. It’s two-ply with multiple layers, and requires little to no maintenance.
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Motor
The motor in the Sole F85 treadmill performs extremely well. It’s 4.0 CHP and can support high output and heavy weight, while constantly remaining smooth and quiet.
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Foldable Design
When looking at the Sole F80 vs F85, one feature that the F85 offers is the foldable option whereas the F80 does not. This makes the Sole F85 more household-friendly, offering easy storage when you want to save some space. Since this treadmill uses hydraulic assist and a “soft-drop” design, it makes the folding and unfolding process easy and gentle.
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Equipped with Advanced Technology & Accessories
The 10.1” LCD-screen on the Sole F85 is bright and easy-to-read, displaying your time, speed, distance, incline, pace, heart rate, and calories burned during your workout. This treadmill also supports Bluetooth connectivity, and has built-in speakers, which allows you to listen to your music while you exercise. Other accessories that come with the Sole F85 include a ledge to keep a tablet or phone, water-bottle holders, and two fans that will help cool you down.
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Built-In Programs
The Sole F85 has 10 built-in programs including Manual, Cardio, Fat Burn, Hill, Interval, Strength, and 2 heart-rate programs. Users (up to 2) can create profiles as well, so the final built-in programs can be customized, making for a prompt start-up. The incline level also includes 30 different options, which provide something suitable for any user.
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Heart-Rate Monitor
The Sole F85 comes with two options to monitor your heart rate. The hand grips can be used as one option, however, this machine also includes a free Polar chest strap which is proven to be much more accurate. Not to mention, when exercising on the built-in heart rate programs, this treadmill fixates the incline to accommodate, and keeps your heart rate in its target zone.
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Warranty
The warranty for the Sole F85 is one of the best things about this treadmill. It comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame, motor, and deck, as well as a 5-year warranty on electronic parts, and a 2-year warranty for labor.
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Shipping & Assembly
Assembling
The Sole F85, like other Sole treadmills, is straight-forward for users to assemble. To ensure safe shipping, the head of the console is separated as well as the treadmill arms. However, most customers say that assembly is very easy, and takes only an hour or less. A Sole F85 manual is provided with simple instructions. All necessary tools and pieces needed for proper assembly of this treadmill are included in the package, even an Allen Wrench and a screwdriver.
Shipping
The Sole F85 is currently only able to ship within the U.S and not available for international shipping. Shipping is free within the U.S. You will also receive premium delivery from Sole upon purchase. This means that your treadmill will be set inside your home directly (inside front door, lobby, garage, etc.) upon delivery and not left outside.
Our Likes
In this Sole F85 treadmill review, the pros of this machine most definitely weigh out any cons. This folding treadmill is a top seller, and for obvious reasons. From the modern features, to the ergonomic and comfortable design, the Sole F85 makes for an impressive at-home workout for users at any fitness level.
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Smooth, Comfortable & Quiet
Your workout on the Sole F85 is guaranteed to be smooth and low-impact, due to the design of the Cushion-Flex Whisper Deck. As mentioned, this deck significantly reduces the impact on your joints while running, compared to outdoors. The cushioning technology also reduces the noise produced when your feet hit the deck. Not to mention the 4.0 CHP motor on this treadmill contributes to how quiet it is, regardless of how intense you are exercising.
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High-Quality Construction
The Sole F85 is the brand’s highest grade folding treadmill, and it is definitely commercial quality. The strong metal frame allows this machine to support high weight capacities and high intensity workouts, while remaining sturdy throughout.
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30 Incline Levels
In addition to the variety of pre-set programs on the Sole F85 treadmill, the incline is also able to increase significantly. This track has an incline range of up to 15%, which is more than many competing treadmills, not to mention there are 30 levels of incline, creating a suitable workout for any skill level.
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Built-In Accessories
The Sole F85 comes equipped with all the makings of an enjoyable workout. Firstly, the heart-rate monitor is ready-to-go, with a chest strap included, as well as pulse sensors. Two fans, and water bottle holders are built-in for your convenience. Finally, the tech options that are included are also a bonus. Music listening is made easy with integrated speakers, allowing Bluetooth connected devices and the ability to plug in headphones.
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Worry-Free Warranty
The warranty that comes with this treadmill can help you feel confident with your purchase. It includes lifetime warranties for the frame, motor, and deck, which is more than most home exercise equipment. Electronic parts have a 5-year warranty, and there’s a 2-year warranty for labor. Not bad!
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Simple Assembly
Most customers agree that assembly for the Sole F85 is easy and straight-forward, taking around an hour or less. The Sole F85 manual provided will give you all the direction you need, and necessary tools for putting the treadmill together are included in the package.
Our Dislikes
Although there are few negatives with this treadmill, there are some things to consider before purchase, as with any exercise equipment.
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When looking at the Sole F85 vs Sole F80 model, the Sole F80 can be found cheaper by about $300-$500. This may cause the less expensive model to be the more attractive choice, however, the F85 is definitely the more powerful of the two. The F85 is also foldable, and has a few other features which the F80 does not have. So although some customers may find the price tag of this treadmill a bit steep compared to other options, its worth is found in the quality.
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Some users also didn’t find the pre-set programs on the Sole F85 sufficient enough. All foldable treadmills by Sole have 10 standard programs, and some individuals may be searching for more variety. However, the many 30 different incline levels also add to the diversity, and the majority of customers in fact claimed that they never get bored with their workouts on the F85.
Our Verdict
Overall, the Sole F85 is an impressive at-home treadmill, with all of the necessary features to keep you satisfied in the long-term. This machine has the ability to deliver a great, low-impact workout for users at all skill levels.
You can work on your cardio training, fat burning, strength, and more just by using the F85. The multiple built-in programs, and variety of incline levels can definitely keep up with your fitness needs.
In this Sole F85 review, there were many pros and few cons. Most customers are beyond pleased with this treadmill and have no complaints. The design and build is not only strong and enduring, but it’s also good for your body. The Cushion-Flex Whisper Deck on the Sole F85 will help to keep your joints safe and comfortable while running, regardless of intensity. Also check out Best Treadmill Reviews for Home Use 2018.
Although some may think the price for this treadmill is slightly steep, the great construction quality makes it worth it, and it will surely last for years to come. You can still find the Sole F85 for sale at a reasonable price that won’t break the bank, and you’ll be saving on gym memberships as well!
Everything considered, from the comprehensive warranty, to the many incorporated features, we give the Sole F85 a final rating of 9.8/10. It’s a perfect investment for your home, and the commercial quality will prove itself through continued exercise and use.
Price & Shop
Question & Answers
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Q. What is the different between the Sole F80 vs F85 treadmill?
A. A few things that set the F85 apart are that it’s auto-lowering, foldable, and has extra fast buttons for speed and incline, whereas the F80 does not have the same features. It’s worth the price.
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Q. The warranty says it’s Lifetime for the motor. Does this mean if the motor breaks at any time, they’ll send me a new one for free?
A. Yes. The motor carries a lifetime warranty. Sole would most likely send out a local service person to have a look at the motor first.
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Q. What % can the Sole F85 incline to?
A. The track has 30 levels of incline, which top out at 15%.
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Q. When this treadmill is folded up, does it have built-in rollers which help to move it around easier?
A. Yes. This makes it easier to move, especially on hard surfaces.
User Reviews Write a Review
Great value
Simple yet powerful
Definitely worth the money!
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Last updated on December 17th, 2018
Kara Scerri
Kara has always loved to write. As a creative person, it’s her favorite way to express herself. Kara graduated from York University in Psychology and has since completed a certificate from Sheridan College in Digital Marketing Management. In her spare time, Kara actively practices yoga. She promotes living a healthy and balanced life, and always makes sure to stay on top of current health and lifestyle trends.