Sole F63 Review
The new 2023 Sole F63 is one of the highest-quality, basic folding treadmills under $1,200 on the market. Based on what I’ve heard from friends, family, and readers alike, this model really hits one of those sweet spots in terms of both price and performance. Although it’s the simplest model in Sole’s current lineup, it still bags nearly five stars (4.5 to be exact) in my review. The fact you’re looking at a sub-$1,200 treadmill with a 60″ long track as opposed to 55″ is a rare thing these days, not to mention built-in workout programs and 15% incline. And then there’s the liftime warranty on the frame and motor which trumps the 5- to 10-year guarantees typically offered by competitors.
If you’re shopping around treadmills right now, be sure to read our Five Step Buying Guide to get the skinny on what to check. You can also read up on my articles here about decks, motors, rollers, and belts, to help see why we think so highly of the Sole F63. The premium parts involved do make a difference.
Why You Should Trust Our Review Of The Sole F63
At TreadmillReviews.net, we bring you comprehensive reviews of treadmills so you can decide which one is right for you. Our staff thoroughly test all the treadmills we review. We install them, walk on them, run on them, and try out all of the features. We get to know each and every treadmill we review extremely well. Our reviewers log miles on the deck. We listen and record the sound of the motor, we test and measure the incline/decline, try out all aspects of the console and try the treadmill’s features.
Every treadmill we review undergoes the same rigorous process. That way we can compare and contrast them and give you an honest review of what we think. This particular treadmill has been around for many years, and we’ve done previous reviews of the Sole F63.
Our reviewers are treadmill and fitness experts. Brian, the author of this review, is a competitive bodybuilder, and is a 7-time national qualifier in both men’s bodybuilding and classic physique within the NPC competitions. He has coached and been coached on cardiovascular training, HIIT, and nutrition, particularly as it pertains to weight loss for competitions. He is an expert at treadmills, has been on this treadmill, and you can trust his opinion on all of the treadmills he reviews.
In Brief
Recently enhanced, the F63 folding treadmill features a 60-inch running surface, a 3.0 CHP motor and an upgraded console with 10 training programs. Its powder coated steel frame is built to hold steady at the track’s top speed of 12 mph and 15% incline. As a bodybuilder who regularly cuts bodyfat for shows, I’d say the speed and incline offered here are two of the better features. To achieve fat loss one must increase the caloric burn yes, but for continued improvement an increase in one’s metabolism is also crucial. An incline of 15% means one can significantly spike this by way of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), proven to be a winner in the arena of fat loss. The treadmill is equipped with a fan, although it’s not as high-speed as other models. Positioned at the top of the console, the vents can’t be moved downward and this might be inconvenient depending on the user’s height.
Workout progress is shown on a 6.5-inch LCD which can be integrated with the Sole Fitness Studio app for wireless tracking and fitness stats sharing. The treadmill is also equipped with an integrated tablet holder for users to bring their own screen, or as I prefer to do, park it in front of a smart television. The machine is Bluetooth-enabled for both heart rate training and entertainment, which at this price is a big plus. The Studio app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, so whatever tech you own, you can view your progress on your mobile in real time. What’s more, the Sole app can communicate with other apps such as FitBit and MyFitnessPal so you can continue using whatever programs you’re familiar with and store all of your workout history in one location. As for extra features, the F63 also includes an integrated tablet holder, Bluetooth audio speakers, and a USB charging port. It’s 325-pound weight maximum also means the treadmill is good to go for most everyone.
The F63’s $1,199.99 sale price includes a competitive warranty offering lifetime coverage for the frame and motor; three years for the parts, deck, and electronics; and one year of labor. It must be noted that lifetime warranty is a huge plus in my book. Recently we’ve seen a trend toward shorter warranties and I’m glad to see Sole is sticking by its products. For a list of our Best Folding Treadmills see our review.
- Very budget-friendly
- Lifetime warranty on the frame
- Comes with a 1-ply belt
Sole F63 Treadmill - Key Specs:
Star Rating: | 4.7-stars |
---|---|
Motor: | 3.0 HP |
Incline: | 0 to 15% |
Running Area: | 20" x 60" |
Folding: | Yes |
Top Speed: | 12 MPH |
Weight Capacity: | 325 LBS |
Dimensions: | 77" L x 35" W x 66" H |
Built-In Programs: | 7 |
In-Depth Review of the Sole F63
Why We Like It
The Sole F63 is a great, all-round, lower-cost model that doesn’t sacrifice quality. If you’re not into big, flashy high-definition screens and want the liberty of choosing your own programs, this is it. The machine comes with built-in workouts which include the fitness tests for the U.S. Armed Services, as well as a great media shelf for you to attach either a tablet or smartphone. Definitely a bring-your-own-screen model, it still offers a stellar 15% incline, which I have yet to see fail a fitness fan. Combined with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, you can figure this machine will last. And at a price of $1,199, you really can’t find much better.
What I Like:
The Sole F63’s track is another place where the treadmill really shines. Not only is it well made, the fact that it’s 60 inches long and 20 inches wide while still being foldable means that you’ll feel right at home regardless of whether you’re walking or running. The F63 offers a 15% incline, giving you the option to intensify your workouts and help burn fat and calories faster than ever before. The feature works whether you’re running or walking, adding an extra layer of programming options to each and every workout. The machine inclines quietly and control panels are located on the handlebars as well as the console. The F63 offers 7 preset workouts to help you reach your fitness goals as well as two user profiles with custom information which allow you to quickly pick up where you left off after each workout. The 6.5-inch LCD screen provides all the key information about your workout, ensuring you know exactly where you’re at. Short on space? The good news is that the F63 is a foldable treadmill that doesn’t sacrifice on stability. This means that although it can be stored easily and benefits from a hydraulic shock assist soft drop system ensuring the takedown is a breeze, it’s still very stable and won’t wobble like many other foldable treadmills in its class.
What I Don’t Like:
See Our Video Review Of The Sole F63
I Recommend this Treadmill For You If:
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly treadmill priced under $1,200.
- You’re new to exercising at home and want a simple but high-quality treadmill to get you started.
- You’re looking for a lifetime product warranty.
- High-quality, durable treadmill basics mean more to you than luxury extras.
My Final Verdict:
At $1,199.99 with a generous warranty, the Sole F63 is an excellent, budget-friendly choice for at-home cardio training. The commercial-grade motor and cushioned track can support many years of reliable and comfortable use, as well as now accommodating for taller users with its updated, longer track. The combination of a low price, durable components and Sole’s great customer service explains why the F63 is one of the brand’s most popular treadmills year after year.
I’d strongly recommend this machine for anyone seeking a tool to burn calories. With a 325-pound weight maximum, just about anyone can strap on a weighted vest and significantly increase their load. That said, if you’re looking for a broader range of machines, consider our ranking of the Best Home Treadmills of 2021.
Curious about Sole’s higher-level treadmills? Check out the Sole F80 Folding Treadmill.
Sole F63 Giveaway
Update: Congratulations to Dawn C. from Michigan, the winner of our Sole F63 Giveaway!
What’s New for 2023:
- The machine has been streamlined down a few inches in terms of length, width, and height, making it more compact.
- The Bluetooth features have been upgraded to BLE 3.0 Audio-enabled, BLE 5.0, and it now supports Sole+ Apps.
What’s New for 2022:
- An integrated tablet holder has been built into the machine’s console. If the 6.5-inch LCD screen isn’t sufficient, runners can always affix a tablet or phone to the console and incorporate any number of apps or streaming services while they run. This opens up the entertainment options considerably. This also allows for a more diverse array of app usage as one is not locked into a specific program when using their own screen.
- The new model also brings Bluetooth Audio Speakers, meaning music or other sound from streaming devices is much more accessible.
- The new year also brings a USB port to the machine, which is a critical addition to keep devices attached to the tablet holder running during long sessions.
About the Author
Brian Boyce is an 8X national qualifier in NPC Men’s Bodybuilding and Classic Physique. In addition to bodybuilding, he competes in sanctioned powerlifting meets as well as strongman events. Brian has tested and reviewed numerous products in his own home gym outfitted with commercial equipment on his farm.
Recent Updates
- November 7, 2023: Updated price and specs.
- May 9, 2023: Updated price and specs.
- October 4, 2022: Updated price as per the manufacturer’s website. Added original photography from test-run. More FAQs have been included.
- July 13, 2021: Added some FAQs to the page.
Sole F63 FAQs
How much does a Sole F63 treadmill weigh?
A Sole F63 treadmill weighs 254 lbs. The model also has a maximum weight capacity of 325 lbs.
Does the Sole F63 treadmill fold?
Yes, the Sole F63 is a foldable treadmill. It safely locks into an upright position with Sole’s Easy Assist Folding Deck Design which helps you to fold and unfold your treadmill.
Is the Sole F63 easy to assemble and disassemble?
Sole provides a range of videos on their site to help with the assembly of their machines, as well as how to maintain and clean your Sole treadmill. Alternatively, customers can pay $239 for full assembly by the delivery company.
Is the Sole F63 a noisy treadmill?
All treadmills emit some level of noise, but whether it's a problem or not is typically up to the user. The Sole F63 has been measured around 70 decibel level, which is comparable to a car at idle.