# TLDR Review: Sole F85 Treadmill

*Published: 2026-01-28 | Updated: 2026-01-28 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/sole-f85-treadmill*

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## Product: Sole F85 Treadmill
**Brand:** Sole Fitness

## Pros
- Runs smoothly and quietly with a solid, durable, gym-quality feel and powerful motor.
- Responsive and easy-to-use incline and speed controls located conveniently on the handles.
- Deck cushioning is firm yet easier on joints compared to running on concrete or asphalt.
- Slow ramp-up and ramp-down when adjusting speed help reduce motor strain and prevent belt slipping.
- Accurate and consistent heart rate tracking via the included chest strap.
- Folding mechanism includes a shock feature for a slow, controlled deck lowering.
- Convenient tablet/laptop holder and USB port (though slow charging) enhance usability.
- Solid 20" treadmill belt width offers ample space for comfortable movement.
- Sturdy build supports running and walking with an effective combination of treadmill and cardio strider functions.
- Assembly is straightforward and can be completed in about an hour with two people.

## Cons
- The console is outdated with limited features, lacking useful options like preset distance goals (e.g., 5K runs).
- Switching between miles and metric units is cumbersome, allowing only one unit at a time, complicating distance and speed tracking.
- Handles feel too low, especially when the incline is raised, causing discomfort or the need to lean forward.
- The included fan is weak, poorly placed, and misses cooling shorter users.
- Pulse detection on the handles can be unreliable and ceased working for some users shortly after assembly.
- Customer service and warranty support have significant issues including delayed responses, incorrect parts shipped, long hold times, and difficulty scheduling repair visits.
- The display uses an older dot matrix design, which is not very user-friendly or visually appealing.
- Assembly involves handling a heavy platform, which can be challenging in tight spaces.

## Bottom Line

The Sole Fitness F85 Folding Treadmill is a sturdy, quiet, and solid machine that delivers smooth performance and good cushioning, ideal for moderate running and walking workouts. However, its outdated console and frustrating customer service may put off purchasers looking for modern tech features and reliable support. If you want a treadmill with better customer support or more advanced console options, you might want to keep browsing. Otherwise, if build quality and quiet operation top your list, the F85 remains a strong contender.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Runs smoothly and quietly with a solid, durable, gym-quality feel and powerful motor. | The console is outdated with limited features, lacking useful options like preset distance goals (e.g., 5K runs). |
| Responsive and easy-to-use incline and speed controls located conveniently on the handles. | Switching between miles and metric units is cumbersome, allowing only one unit at a time, complicating distance and speed tracking. |
| Deck cushioning is firm yet easier on joints compared to running on concrete or asphalt. | Handles feel too low, especially when the incline is raised, causing discomfort or the need to lean forward. |
| Slow ramp-up and ramp-down when adjusting speed help reduce motor strain and prevent belt slipping. | The included fan is weak, poorly placed, and misses cooling shorter users. |
| Accurate and consistent heart rate tracking via the included chest strap. | Pulse detection on the handles can be unreliable and ceased working for some users shortly after assembly. |
| Folding mechanism includes a shock feature for a slow, controlled deck lowering. | Customer service and warranty support have significant issues including delayed responses, incorrect parts shipped, long hold times, and difficulty scheduling repair visits. |
| Convenient tablet/laptop holder and USB port (though slow charging) enhance usability. | The display uses an older dot matrix design, which is not very user-friendly or visually appealing. |
| Solid 20" treadmill belt width offers ample space for comfortable movement. | Assembly involves handling a heavy platform, which can be challenging in tight spaces. |
| Sturdy build supports running and walking with an effective combination of treadmill and cardio strider functions. |  |
| Assembly is straightforward and can be completed in about an hour with two people. |  |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*