Sole treadmills have garnered a great reputation amongst runners. In large part due to their quality, price, and one of the industry’s leading warranties. And today we’ll be looking at two of the brand’s mid tier models, comparing the Sole F80 vs F85 treadmills.
Considered to be the beefed up version of the brands widely popular and best in class winning F63 and F65 treadmills. The Sole F80 and F85 feature heavier weight limits, wider & softer running treads, and strong motors. Along with an extended warranty. It’s clear that Sole is intent on offering added value as the models increase in price. So let’s take a look at the features so you can decide on the right treadmill for you.
Sole F80 vs F85 – Treadmill Review
- The Sole F80 has been rated best in class in the past. Compared to the F80, the F85 is a stronger version with a higher weight capacity.
- The Sole F85 has a 400lb weight capacity for users. Compared to a 375lb weight capacity on the F85.
- Both have the same adjustable speed range. Running from 0.5-12mph.
- Both treadmills have the same adjustable incline options. Going from 0-15 levels of incline.
- Neither treadmill offers a decline option. You will have to look at other models and brands if you are looking for decline.
- The motor in the F85 is stronger than in the motor in the F80. With 4HP in the F85 vs 3.5HP in the F80.
- Both offer the same size running belt. The running area is 22 inches wide by 60 inches long.
- Both offer side rail controls. Along with a built-in fan.
- The F85 screen is 10.1 inch TFT Touch Pannel with Android operating system. This is 1.1″ larger than the 9 inch LCD on the F80 that doesn’t feature the Android system .
- The F85 screen has the ability to mirror for phone or tablet. The F80 screen does not.
- Sole offers the same warranty on both treadmills. Featuring a lifetime frame, motor and deck warranty. And 5 years on electronics and parts. And 2 years labor.
Link: Click Here
Price: $1,599 (Should Include Delivery)
Dimensions: 82” long x 37” Wide x 66” Tall
Folded Dimensions: 44” x 37″ x 71″
Easy Assist Folding: Yes
Belt: 60” X 22” Commercial Tread Belt
Weight: 278 lb
Capacity: 375lb
Screen Size: 9″ LCD Screen
Running Tread Space: 60” Inches
Speed: Up to 12 mph
Incline: Up to 15 levels
Decline: 0 Decline
Motor Power: 3.5HP
Warranty: Lifetime frame, motor, and deck. 5 year electronics and parts. 2 year labor.
Ceiling height minimum: Not Listed
Link: Click Here
Link: Click Here
Price: $1,999 (Should Include Delivery)
Dimensions: 82” L x 37” W x 66” H
Folded Dimensions: 44″ x 37″ x 71″
Easy Assist Folding: Yes
Belt: 60” L x 22” W
Weight: 308 lb
Capacity: 400lb
Screen Size: 10.1″TFT Touch Panel +Android System
Running Tread Space: 60” Inches
Speed: Up to 12 mph
Incline: Up to 15 Levels
Decline: 0 Decline
Motor Power: 4 HP
Warranty: Lifetime frame, motor and deck. 5 year electronics and parts. 2 year labor.
Ceiling height minimum: Not listed.
Link: Click Here
Performance Review
Sole has been a trusted name in the industry for a long time. Selling treadmills in the United States for over two decades and winning multiple best in class honors. A lot of people find the brand while looking at their highly rated and budget friendly intro models. But Sole offers a lot of value as their prices increase. With both of these being perfect examples of feature rich treadmills at a mid level price point. And Below we’ll dive deeper into the Sole F80 vs F85 treadmills.
Sole F80
The Sole F80 is a comfortable sized treadmill. Featuring a running tread area of 22”x60”. Noticeably larger when compared to the brand’s smaller F63, especially while running. The increased size features a bit more cushion and the larger LCD screen is a plus when trying any of the built in workouts. I do wish there was a bit more room on the safety bars. I do a lot of incline running, so an extra foot would make me feel a bit more safe. That said, I understand why they did. The footprint while folded is a plus for both of these models.
Running on the F80 feels roomy and the tread cushion feels great when putting in a lot of miles. This is also a great feature for heavier runners taking advantage of the 375lb weight limit. For me one of the most impressive features on this treadmill is the 3.5hp motor. Which feels like it has plenty to give when pushing the tempo on a 10+% incline. Overall the F80 performs incredibly well, it just lacks some of the technology features in the higher priced models. But if you don’t need a screen you can watch video on (you can just use the tablet holder for your phone or tablet) then the F80 provides an incredible value for the price.
Sole F85
The Sole F85 shares the same frame and sizing as the F80. So initially they look very similar when comparing the two. What does stand out right away is the display. Gone are the globo gym treadmill style buttons and display. And in its place is 10’1 inch screen with phone/tablet mirroring capabilities, that makes the treadmill feel on the higher end. Aside from the screen, the display, cup holders, and side bars are the same on the two models.
Another upgrade in the Sole F85 comes in the form of a 4hp motor. This stringer motor also allows them to up the weight limit on the treadmill to 400lbs. Making it one of the heaviest weight capacities you will find in a treadmill at the $2,000 price point. Which can be a big selling factor for some customers.
For me, running on the F85 was a joy. I was really able to give the treadmill a good couple sprint intervals at a high incline. And the motor just flew. My one big want for this model would be a decline running feature. Even 1-2 degrees would put it over the top, but maybe next time.
Below are images of the treadmills displays and videos of the Sole F80 vs F85 treadmills.
F80 Treadmill Display
F85 Treadmill Display
Sole F80 Video
Sole F85 Video
Conclusion
It’s easy to understand that if you’re interested in one of these treadmills, it makes sense to check out the other as well. The two models share the same frame and many of the same features. So when comparing the Sole F80 vs F85 it’s important to pay attention to the details. Because it’s a few small changes that could be the difference between buying the right treadmill for you. So which one should you buy?
Which should I buy?
For me this answer comes down to what features you feel you need in a treadmill. The biggest differences being that the F85 has a stronger motor, a 25lb higher weight capacity (400lbs total), and an upgraded screen that allows you to mirror your phone or tablet. If any of these features are a must for you, then you go with the F85. If you’re ok using your phone or tablet and the weight capacity isn’t going to affect you, then save the money and go with the F80.
