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Sole F63 Review Review

Quick Summary

The Sole F63 is another stellar release from the always-impressive SOLE line of fitness equipment. The most affordable folding treadmill in a top-rated collection by Sole, the F63 is made from high quality parts that are durable and reliable. It’s an affordable machine that doesn’t sacrifice quality or experience to hit that price point, still offering a sweat-dripping running or walking experience. This treadmill is packed with options that cater to beginner runners and walkers while also offering a variety of workouts to challenge even the most experienced user. The F63 is compact and has a foldable option for easy storage. This treadmill is affordable and extremely user friendly, making it a perfect option for someone building their first home gym.

Specs that make the F63 such a strong choice for runners include a durable 3.0 CHP motor, a 60″ track, a 12 mph top speed, and a commercial deck with excellent shock absorption.

Learn more from our Sole F63 Treadmill video review below.

Specifications

Model Sole F63
Rating

Our custom rating considers all of the treadmill's features, specs, warranties, and 100's of user & expert reviews, to save you time!

88.6%
List Price

Suggested retail price, typically higher than the price you'll pay with our recommended retailers.

$1,799
Best Price

Since prices change daily, this link goes to our preferred retailer for the current best price. Note: MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price.

$1,199
Speed

Treadmill Speed is measured in Miles Per Hour (mph). Average running speed is 5-9 mph.

0.5 - 12 mph
Incline

Treadmill Incline measures the angle of the deck, and how steep it is relative to the floor (0% is flat, and 15% is like a steep hill).

0 - 15%
Motor

The Treadmill Motor is what turns the belt as you run. We recommend at least 2 HP (Horsepower) motors, 2.5+ HP for jogging, and 3.0+ HP for running.

3.0 CHP
Deck

Treadmill Deck dimensions are measured in inches: Width x Length. The wider and longer the deck, the safer it is (55-60 inches long recommended for running).

20" x 60"
Belt

The Treadmill Belt is the surface you run on. The thicker the belt, the less impact on your joints. At least 2-ply (1 inch) recommended.

Phenolic Deck w/ Shock Absorption
2-Ply (1")
Folding?

Some treadmills are designed to conserve space by folding up. This is a convenient option, but some features might be reduced.

Programs

Treadmill Programs allow you to complete a workout with changing speeds and inclines, without changing anything manually.

10
Max. Weight

Treadmill Max User Weight is the amount of weight, in pounds (lbs), that it can safely support, which can represent durability.

325 lbs
Heart Rate

Heart Rate programs allow you to track how many times your heart is beating per minute (bpm), and some control the workout for you.

Pulse Grips
& Chest Strap (optional)
Dimensions

Dimensions are included to help you figure out if this treadmill will fit properly (Length x Width x Height and Height x Depth).

82" x 35" x 66"
Weight: 254 lbs
Rollers: 2.5"
Display

Treadmill Display refers to the screen you'll look at to monitor workouts. LED and LCD displays are similar to TV screens.

White Back-lit 6.5" LCD
Cooling Fans

Treadmill Cooling Fans are designed to help keep you cool during an intense workout.

Accessory Tray

Some treadmills include an accessory tray for holding items such as water bottles, wallets, keys, or MP3 players like iPods.

Speakers

Treadmills that include a sound system allow you to listen to your MP3 player/iPod through built-in speakers (no headphones).

Quick Controls

Quick Controls allow you to select speed, incline and even workout programs with the touch of a button (usually on the handles).

Warranty

The warranty is a very important part of your investment. The longer the warranty, the longer you can get free/discounted repairs by the manufacturer.

Frame: Lifetime
Motor: Lifetime
Parts: 3 Years
Electronics: 3 Years
Labor: 1 Year

Rating: 88.6%

Our Rating

88.6/100

Many treadmills are sale priced at $1,199, but few have the quality of the Sole F63’s steel-framed folding unit designed for home use. The Sole F63 is quite possibly the most durable folding treadmill available under $1,200. It has an $1,799 MSRP but is available for far less at Sole’s website.

The F63 includes a 6.5” LCD screen that displays workout stats including calories burned, speed, time, heart rate, etc. The user’s own tablet computer can serve as the workout monitor with a free mobile app from Sole. One advantage of using this app during workout sessions is that it can sync with FitBit, MyFitnessPal and countless other apps that store exercise data. The display comes with 10 different workout programs and reaches up to 12mph in speed. The workout programs include cardio, fat burn, manual, and more to keep workouts exciting and fresh. Users can connect the SOLE app via Bluetooth to track their progress and results. There is also a fan built right into the display to keep users cool, an integrated tablet holder, Bluetooth audio speakers, and a USB charging port.

This treadmill boasts a 3.0 CHP motor, which allows for a quieter walking or running experience. The motor is cooled by powerful flywheels, which last longer than most competitors. The 2-ply running belt is 20 x 60” and offers CushionFlex technology that will reduce impact on joints up to 35-40%. This is a great feature for users who have had previous injuries and those looking to improve their fitness safely. The belt can hold up to 325 lbs, making it a strong and reliable treadmill.

The F63’s incline can go up to 15%, facilitating more intense workouts with a higher calorie burn and toned muscles.  The F63 can reach up to 12mph, so runners can expect to shed pounds in no time. Speed and incline can both be adjusted in multiple locations on the treadmill (including the handrails) for quick changes mid-workout. There are two options for monitoring heart rate: touch sensors on the handlebars and a wireless chest strap (included with the machine). Monitoring heart rate allows users to track their progress and results more accurately.

The F63 is just as stable as traditional non-folding treadmills and it features many of the commercial quality components found on trainers that cost twice as much. Specs for the F63 now include a 20″ x 60″ running surface, a 3.0 continuous horsepower motor, 15 levels of track incline and a 10-item workout menu. Not bad at all for this price bracket. However if you have some extra cash in your budget, we highly recommend stepping up to the F80 for a variety of reasons.

Pros:

  • Sturdy yet foldable frame
  • 3.0 CHP motor
  • 20″ x 60″ track
  • CushionFlex Deck to reduce impact on joints
  • Up to 15% incline
  • Bluetooth compatible for SOLE App, FitBit, and MyFitness Pal
  • Secure tablet holder
  • Wireless heart rate receiver
  • Contact pulse sensors
  • Personal cooling fans
  • Affordable price point
  • 10 different workout programs
  • Dual water bottle holders
  • Fan built into the display
  • Can hold up to 325 lbs in weight
  • Compact design and easy to maneuver around the home
  • Integrated tablet holder
  • Bluetooth audio speakers
  • USB charging port

Cons:

  • Simple functions, no real-life trainers or interactive displays
  • Slow acceleration compared to other models
  • Short side rails

Introduction

The Sole F63 treadmill is budget-friendly, but quite well-made. It’s just as sturdy as non-folding treadmills and offers an impressive experience that few other brands can match at this price point.

The newest version of the F63 builds upon this model’s earlier success with more conveniently located speed and incline controls, an improved console screen, and enhancements for integrating wireless tech.

Workout Programs

The F63, like all treadmills in the Sole collection, has a 10-item program menu. Six of the programs are preset workouts that control the treadmill’s speed and incline to focus especially on cardio endurance, calorie burn, or muscle toning. Two additional programs use heart rate data to control the treadmill’s challenge level, keeping the user within a predetermined heart rate zone. The final two slots are for user designed programs customized to fit your needs.

Sole F63 Features

Sole F63 folded in upright position

The Sole F63 has a foldable frame. The folding is accomplished with hydraulic assist, so the machine does most of the work.

Entertainment is supported through Bluetooth audio speakers. There is also a shelf available to securely support a tablet computer. The Sole Fitness App lets a tablet computer serve as a secondary program monitor. It can collect exercise stats in the background, while trainees watch Netflix or use other apps during workouts.

Close-up of LCD display screen on the Sole F63 treadmill

The Sole Fitness App can then sync with the user’s preferred fitness app for keeping all exercise data in one place. As well, the Sole F63 also includes a USB charging port for your devices.

Sole F63 treadmill side view of incline level

Automated incline supports excellent conditioning. It has 30 settings in half-percent increments ranging up to a 15% incline. Controls are accessed both on the handlebars and the console.

Close-up of workout programs available on the Sole F63 treadmill

For heart rate monitoring, contact pulse monitors are built in and Sole treadmills are compatible with wireless chest straps. Two of the F63’s preset workouts are controlled by heart rate.

Sole F63 treadmill rear view of deck

Sole’s CushionFlex Deck can reduce joint impact by up to 40% when compared with outdoor jogging paths.

This treadmill also offers personal cooling fans, two bottle holders, and an accessory tray.

Warranty & Guarantee

The Sole F63 warranty includes:

– Frame: Lifetime
– Motor: Lifetime
– Parts & Electronics: 3 Years
– Labor: 1 Year

Return Policy: Sole Fitness cardio trainers are sold with 30-day money-back guarantees.

What’s New for 2022?

  • New for this year, the F63 features an integrated tablet holder. This holder allows one to attach smart devices to the machine while in use. For those who feel the 6.5″ LCD screen is insufficient this is a big plus as the holder works with phones or tablets.
  • The new model also includes a USB port for charging devices. Obviously the inclusion of a tablet holder means users will need to keep their devices fully charged while using their choice of fitness apps during the workout.
  • Bluetooth Audio Speakers are also part of this year’s upgrades, and that’s in keeping with the tablet holder and USB port as the machine’s entertainment options have become significantly improved this year.

Front view of the Sole F63 treadmill

Conclusion

The Sole F63 might be simple, but that’s exactly what will make it ideal for most users. SOLE built this treadmill for new athletes and won’t overwhelm them with complicated functions. The F63 gets the job done through multiple workout options, incline capabilities, heart rate monitoring, and a cushioned belt. It’s an impressive entry-level machine with a very tempting price point.

The Sole brand never fails to provide reliable and sturdy machines that help users reach their fitness goals. Customers can track their progress through the machine or by connecting their apps via Bluetooth so they can monitor their starts even when they aren’t using the treadmill. The Sole F63 is highly recommended for beginners and those seeking a club-quality treadmill that won’t break the bank.

Check Price

Recent Updates

October 12, 2022: Updated price as per the manufacturer’s website. More FAQs have been included. Added images from test run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Sole F63 treadmill speakers Bluetooth compatible?

Yes, this machine’s speakers come ready for Bluetooth.

Can I enter my weight to calculate burned calories on the Sole F63 treadmill?

Yes.

How quickly does the Sole F63 treadmill incline change?

To adjust the speed of incline, simply use the desired keys 2-10 on the console.

Where is the Sole F63 treadmill made?

The treadmill is manufactured in China.

Is it difficult to assemble the Sole F63 treadmill?

Not at all. Having a partner help will make it easier, but with all the instructional videos online we’ve found it to be quite easy. The company also offers a full assembly package for $239 completed by the delivery team.

How often should I clean my Sole F63 treadmill?

We recommend after every 40 hours of use.

19 Comments

  • Kate December 28, 2020 at 2:39 pm from Pennsylvania
    I just bought an F63 a month ago. The belt seems to be curling up on the edges. Is this normal?
    • FitRated January 28, 2021 at 10:46 am
      Hi Kate, it may be an issue with your belt tension. You can adjust the tension of your belt following the instructions on page 14 of the manual: https://www.soletreadmills.com/manuals/f63.pdf
  • Dennis C. Meuleman December 8, 2020 at 9:04 am from South Bend in.
    most of the time this will only be used for walking, now my concern is how noisey is it? does it make loud winding noise?
    • FitRated December 16, 2020 at 1:41 pm
      Hi Dennis, the machine has low to regular noise levels for any fitness machine. The motor is fairly quiet, and the winding noise from the belt is minimal. We suggest placing the treadmill on a shock absorption mat to further minimize any noise from footfalls when walking/running.
  • Drew June 26, 2020 at 11:31 am
    At 5’9”, 260lbs jogging at 4-6 mph for 20-40 min, can this machine hold up? Weight max is 325lbs but I wonder if that is walking only and won’t support the impact of running for someone in the high 200’s. I can’t afford the F80. Is it better to go with this or a used commercial treadmill?
    • FitRated July 6, 2020 at 2:59 pm
      Hi Drew, the Sole F63 will have no problem holding up to the amount of use you described. Just make sure that you follow all of the user care instructions in the manual, such as lubricating the treadmill after the first 50 hours of use. This ensures that your treadmill will be in the best shape for use!
  • Steven Hill May 11, 2020 at 9:10 am from FL
    Why is this treadmill scored so low? CR magazine has it at number 2 right behind the Nautilus T616. Was this review based off their latest version? Now I am torn in my selection process. I am debating the following at the $1000 price mark. Sole F63 Horizon 7.0AT Nautilus T616 Nautilus T618 (maybe) It is pricier. Any suggestions based on reliability, customer service, etc.?
  • Louise F Senn January 18, 2020 at 12:55 pm from New York
    Assembly? How complicated is it to assemble? I am 73 and would like to put it in my basement. Is that possible before it's put together? I could move each part downstairs first.
    • FitRated February 18, 2020 at 12:02 pm
      Hi Louise, there is a fair bit of assembly required with this machine, so it depends on how handy you are. Sole offers at home assembly at an additional charge.
  • Rob May 21, 2019 at 4:26 pm
    I enjoy the treadmill, but the incline is stuck at the highest setting.
    • Krissy Selda May 23, 2019 at 10:39 am
      Hi Rob, we're glad that you're enjoying your treadmill! Have you tried contacting Sole to fix the incline? Here's their tech support number in case you need it: 1-866-MYSOLE1 (866-697-6531). Happy running!
      • Tracy Levine July 14, 2020 at 4:21 am from Florida
        I can’t figure out how to play my music from my phone to the speakers without using the connecting wire. My IPhone 8 no longer has a plug for this. There is nothing on the app about music only about the workout programs?
        • FitRated July 21, 2020 at 4:57 pm
          Hi Tracy, the F63 can play music wirelessly through Bluetooth. Make sure your bluetooth is on and connect to "Bt-speaker" in your device’s Bluetooth menu. Hope this helps!
  • Marty Bishop March 25, 2019 at 4:10 pm from Pennsylvania
    We have a F63 for years now and love it except every once in a while we get a LS1 message and the belt won’t move. We have waited days then it will work. It currently is not working very frustrating. How do I fix this ?
    • Courtney Grafton March 27, 2019 at 3:43 pm
      Hi Marty. We are glad you enjoy your treadmill and are sorry to hear that you occasionally have issues with it. 1-888-707-1880 This number will direct you to customer service where are representative will better be able to help you.
  • Marco Jean March 23, 2019 at 12:32 am from Quebec, Canada
    Hi, We were looking at the F63 or the Nordictrack C990 for a new treadmill. The C990 is really weel reviewed but, I saw in your review that, although rated for 300 pounds, it's best for runner under 200 pounds. That would put this treadmill out of contention for me... Your review for the F63 doesn't go as far as stating the runner max weight. Still, seeing it's rated for 350 pounds, can I assume it should be ok for runners in the 250 pounds range? That would be great cause the next step up is about 500$ more for the F80 and even more for the Nordictrack C1750!!! Thanks
    • Courtney Grafton March 25, 2019 at 3:12 pm
      Hi Marco. Yes, this machine would be suitable for you as the max weight is 350lbs. I recommend treadmills that have a bit more bulk to them as this will ensure a strong running belt. You can also take a look at some of the NordicTrack options as they are also built strong.
  • Gail Cooper February 7, 2019 at 5:30 pm from Thornhill
    I am in my late 60s, weigh 110 pounds and only run rarely on the treadmill. Mostly, I walk at about 3.5 mi/hr. I am going to buy a Sole treadmill, but am debating between an F60 and anF63. Would there be an advantage for me in getting the F63? Thank you.
    • FitRated Editorial Team February 15, 2019 at 10:05 am
      Hi Gail, Sorry for taking so long to reply! If you're going to buy a Sole treadmill, F60 & and the F63 are great choices. Based off a product support and general newness however, the F63 is a newer more update model over the F60. Both models are priced comparatively the same but the F60 has a better chance of being phased out. Therefore, I would tell you to buy the F63 as product support might be more comprehensive! Hope this helps!

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