SOLE vs. Bowflex: A Comprehensive 2024 Treadmill Comparison

Key Takeaways

• SOLE treadmills are known for their durable construction and high user weight capacity, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
• BowFlex treadmills offer innovative technology with incline and decline options, along with integration with their JRNY platform for a personalized fitness experience.
• When comparing motor performance, SOLE treadmills typically provide strong, quiet motors with a reputation for longevity.
• BowFlex treadmills focus on adaptive technology to adjust workouts in real time and provide interactive training sessions.

 

At SOLE, we're proud of our products but we also want to help you make informed choices for your fitness gear. So we're comparing SOLE and BowFlex treadmills to enable you to pick the best fit for your health goals. With so many choices, finding the right one can be tough, but we're here to help.   Featured Products SOLE Treadmills: Starting at $1199.99, SOLE treadmills excel in ergonomic design, durability, and value. Equipped with advanced cushioning to minimize joint impact, powerful, quiet motors, and wide running surfaces, they suit any fitness level. Our intuitive consoles track progress, and the extensive warranties highlight their quality.  BowFlex Treadmill: These treadmills combine innovative features with solid build quality, making them appealing to those seeking a versatile and comprehensive workout solution.

 

Top Features of Sole Treadmill

• Patented Cushion Flex Whisper Deck: This innovative feature reduces the impact on your joints by up to 40% compared to running on asphalt. That's a big deal because it means you can run longer and recover faster. 
• High Durability and User Weight Capacity: These machines are built to last, with a high weight capacity that can handle up to 400 pounds. That means almost anyone can hop on and get moving without worrying about the treadmill's ability to support them.
• Robust Construction: They are made of heavy-duty, steel frame construction that's stable even during intense workouts.
• Powerful Motors: SOLE treadmills, like the F89 model, are equipped with strong, durable motors of up to 4.0 HP. This provides smooth and consistent performance, which is great for long-running sessions and high-intensity workouts.

Top Features of BowFlex Treadmill

• Innovative Incline and Decline Options: BowFlex takes your hill workouts to a whole new level. With the ability to mimic both uphill and downhill terrain, you can train for any course, right in the comfort of your home. 
• JRNY Experience Integration: This platform offers personalized coaching, adjusts to your capabilities, and provides feedback that's designed to help you improve over time.
• SoftDrop Stowable Design: BowFlex’s folding design reduces the treadmill’s footprint by more than 40% which is great for users with small space. SOLE has both folding and non-folding treadmills. 
• Motorized Incline and Decline: BowFlex treadmills offer up to a 20% incline and a -5% decline, providing real-world terrain simulation for a more challenging and varied workout.

Detailed Feature Analysis: What Sets Them Apart

Motor Performance and Durability

• SOLE treadmills usually come with motors that range from 3.0 to 4.0 CHP (Continuous Horse Power), which are powerful enough for long-distance running and heavy use.
• BowFlex treadmills have varying motor sizes so that they can keep up with your most demanding workouts. Unfortunately, these motor sizes are not disclosed on the official website. 

When it comes to durability, both brands offer reliable motors that are built to last. SOLE, known for high-quality components, often provides lifetime warranties for the motors, which speaks volumes about our confidence in the machine's longevity. BowFlex also offers robust motors, but their warranties tend to be more limited in comparison.

Noise Levels and Smoothness of Operation

No one likes a noisy treadmill. Fortunately, SOLE and BowFlex treadmills are designed to operate smoothly and quietly. 

• SOLE’s Cushion Flex Whisper Deck not only reduces joint impact but also contributes to a quieter workout. 
• BowFlex treadmills are similarly designed to minimize noise, ensuring that you can enjoy your music or TV show without the drone of a loud motor.

Console and Technology Integration

Both SOLE and Bowflex treadmills offer a range of pre-set and customizable workout programs. SOLE provides programs that cater to all fitness levels, from fat-burning to cardio training. 

• The consoles on SOLE machines are user-friendly with large displays, making it easy to track your speed, time, distance, and calories burned. For example, the F89 has a 21.5” LCD touchscreen which is the biggest in our product line. 
• SOLE treadmills offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to sync your workouts with fitness apps like SOLE+ and Kinomap for a comprehensive view of your fitness journey.
• Bowflex's JRNY platform is an interactive personal training experience that adapts to your fitness level. It offers virtual coaching, on-demand classes, and even Netflix and Amazon Prime integration for some entertainment while you sweat.

Comfort and Usability

• SOLE treadmills are designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring cushioned decks and handlebars placed for natural arm movement.
• BowFlex treadmills also focus on ergonomics, with comfort tech deck cushioning and user-friendly controls.

Shock Absorption Mechanisms

• SOLE’s Cushion Flex Whisper Deck is a standout feature that provides significant impact reduction. 
• BowFlex treadmills also offer great shock absorption, with their Comfort Tech design providing a smooth, cushioned running surface.

Space and Storage Options

• SOLE treadmills are known for their easy fold-up design, which makes them a great choice for those with limited space. There are also non-foldable designs available which are SOLE ST90 and SOLE TT8. 
• BowFlex treadmills, though are foldable via the SoftDrop Stowable Design, tend to have a larger footprint due to their more extensive feature set.
• Moving a treadmill can be a workout in itself, but thankfully, both SOLE and Bowflex treadmills come with transport wheels for easier mobility.

Warranty and Customer Service

• SOLE often offers extensive warranties, including lifetime coverage on the motor and frame, and several years on parts and labor. BowFlex warranties are usually more limited, so it's important to read the fine print before making your purchase.
• Both SOLE and Bowflex have customer service through various channels, including phone, email, and live chat, to get the help you need when you need it.

SOLE vs BowFlex Treadmill Comparison 

Feature	SOLE Treadmills	BowFlex Treadmills
Motor Power	3.0 - 4.0 CHP	Up to  4.0 CHP
Running Deck	2 sizes available:  20” x 60” 22” x 60”	2 sizes available:  20” x 60” 22” x 60”
App Integration	User-friendly with forever free SOLE+ app integration	Subscription to JRNY integration
Shock Absorption	Cushion Flex Whisper Deck technology	Comfort Tech technology
Space-Saving	Compact fold-up design via kick release or release lever mechanism (there’s also non-foldable models available)	Larger footprint but foldable
Warranty	Extensive, including lifetime on motor/frame	More limited coverage
Unique Features	Built-in fans	Built-in fans

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Pros of SOLE Treadmill

• Robust construction and high-quality motors ensure longevity.
• Excellent shock absorption protects your joints during workouts.
• Extensive warranties.

Cons of SOLE Treadmill

• Less focus on technology and interactive features compared to BowFlex.
• Console design is more basic and appeals to those who don't need the distraction of a high-tech experience.

Pros of BowFlex Treadmill

• Decline feature adds variety and simulates real-world terrain. 
• Entertainment options make workouts more enjoyable.

Cons of BowFlex Treadmill

• May have a larger footprint, which can be a consideration for those with limited space.
• Warranties are not as extensive as SOLE’s, which might be a concern for long-term use.

Customer Reviews

Sole Treadmill Review

Contributor Kristen Nelson left this comment on Treadmill Review Guru

“The Sole Fitness F63 treadmill is currently the most affordable treadmill that Sole Fitness has available. However, its affordable pricing doesn't mean that you should disregard the F63. On the contrary, the Sole F63 is an excellent treadmill for walkers and joggers.” 

BowFlex Treadmill Review

Recent Buyer Amber said on Amazon

"I bought this when our last treadmill died. We had purchased the last one used for $500 and it lasted a few years. I figured this would be a good investment. It was fairly easy to assemble, but you will need at least two people. It is very heavy. The screen is large and the controls are easy to use. The motion is smooth and it is much quieter than our last treadmill. I really enjoy the world locations and the music selection is energizing. I am more than a little disappointed that the programs don't automatically change speed and incline. I feel that for $3,000 plus $150 per year subscription, that should be a feature. I don't like having to adjust everything manually while I'm exercising. The screen isn't great quality, there is some color distortion and the video has frozen up on me once."

Expert Opinion: Our Take on the Best Buy

After thoroughly comparing the SOLE and BowFlex treadmills, it's clear that both offer exceptional value in different ways. If you prioritize a sturdy build and a machine that can withstand heavy usage, SOLE is the way to go. 

Why is SOLE a Better Choice?

SOLE is a better choice because it offers high-quality, durable treadmills that rival more expensive models in terms of performance and reliability. 

These treadmills are high-quality, dependable machines that are perfect for a gym-like experience at home without complex technology.

Most of the models have a lifetime frame, 3-year parts, and 1-year electronics warranty. The brand's focus on ergonomics and user satisfaction has cemented its position as a leading choice for home fitness enthusiasts.

Featured Products SOLE F63: This entry-level model provides a powerful motor, a user-friendly console, and a cushioned deck for a comfortable workout experience. Perfect for beginners and those with moderate fitness goals. SOLE F65: With a larger running surface and enhanced features, the F65 provides a reliable and comfortable workout for users who need extra space and stability. SOLE F80: Recognized for its high weight capacity and commercial-grade components, the F80 suits dedicated runners looking for a dependable treadmill with advanced features. SOLE F85: The F85 stands out with its extra-wide deck and upgraded motor, ensuring intense workouts for fitness enthusiasts and advanced users. SOLE F89: Provides an extended running surface and improved cushioning, ideal for taller runners who require a more spacious treadmill experience. SOLE ST90: Combining a sleek design with high-performance features, the ST90 includes an innovative slat belt for a smooth, quiet run. SOLE TT8: This commercial-grade model is built for intense running sessions, featuring a wider belt and additional incline levels for a challenging workout.

 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How Do SOLE and BowFlex Treadmill Decks Differ?

The decks on SOLE treadmills feature the Cushion Flex Whisper Deck technology, which reduces impact on joints significantly. BowFlex treadmill decks are designed with Comfort Tech cushioning for a smooth and responsive running experience.

Can I Sync My Fitness App with Both Treadmills?

Yes, both SOLE and Bowflex treadmills offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to sync your workouts with various fitness apps, so you can track your progress and stay on top of your fitness goals.

What If I Encounter an Issue with My Treadmill?

If you encounter an issue with your SOLE or BowFlex treadmill, these brands offer customer support through various channels. It's recommended to reach out to the customer service team for assistance with troubleshooting or to arrange for repairs if necessary.