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Sole Treadmills vs Smooth Treadmills

I often get inquiries as to which is better a Sole treadmill or Smooth treadmill.  First, I have to confess that I use to work for Smooth several years ago, however, I believe both brands offer quality equipment at a value price.  Here are some considerations.

Both Sole and Smooth offer 2-year labor, 5-year parts and lifetime motor warranties on most of their models. This says something about the durability of their machines.  They would go broke with that kind of warranty if these treadmills did not hold up.

Sole sells online and through Dick’s Sporting Goods.  That means if you have a Dick’s in the area you can try one out.  Smooth online sells online.  Actually they have some retailers in limited areas.  Although I believe that the Smooth treadmills a excellent machines, if a reader contacts me for advice I will often suggest they go to Dick’s and see for themselves.  Although, the service and the expertise of the salespeople at Dick’s is rather poor.

Smooth has a better deal on their entry model.  They are currently selling the Smooth 5.45 for $899 with shipping.  The Sole F63 is selling for $999.  The Smooth 5.45 comes with a 2-year labor warranty.

The Sole F80 is one of the best values at $1,500.  It has a superb service record.  Their Sole F85 is a solid contender at $2,000.  However, Sole sells through other online resources and, as I mentioned, through Dick’s.  This limits them from running special offers and discounting their models.

Smooth primarily sells online and direct.  They are constantly running sales and offering incentives like free in-room delivery.  Also, their two top treadmills, the Smooth 9.45ST and Smooth 9.45TV come with lifetime parts warranties. 

So which is better, Smooth or Sole Treadmills?

If they continue selling the Smooth 5.45 at $899 with 2-years service, I may opt for that.  At $1,500 the Sole F80 is the winner, as is the Sole F85 at $2,000.  The Smooth 9.45ST with the lifetime warranty has some nice features and is a good buy at around $2,300.  The Smooth 9.45TV, with a 15″ flat screen TV, is the best TV equipped treadmill on the market.