Sole F89 Treadmill Review | A Reliable Workhorse for Runners Who Want a Little Extra

If you’re looking for a treadmill that’s sturdy, smooth, and packed with features to make your indoor runs more enjoyable, the Sole F89 is a fantastic option.

As a running coach and avid runner, I don’t rely on the treadmill for every run—but when the weather turns or I need to fit in a workout before my kids go to daycare, I want something that feels reliable and performs well. The F89 checks all those boxes.

We’re big fans of the treadmill being a great tool for runners, which means we’re also determined to test out a lot of models to help you find the right one because we know it’s a big expense! The team has been testing like crazy this year and  this one is ranking pretty high on our best at home running treadmills list.

Sole F89 Overview

I’ve used the SOLE F89 for easy recovery runs, and a few interval sessions—and it’s impressed me across the board. Compared to other treadmills I’ve run on, it feels commercial-grade: solid, smooth, and completely stable, even when sprinting or adjusting incline quickly.

The speed and incline transitions are seamless, and I love that you can fine-tune paces with the toggle button or use the quick-change buttons next to the screen for bigger interval changes. It’s also very quiet, making it ideal for early-morning workouts.

The deck feels firm yet comfortable, and the long belt gives plenty of room to open up your stride.

SOLE doesn’t use a subscription platform like iFit; instead, the treadmill includes free built-in workouts and full access to the SOLE+ app, plus streaming for Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Spotify.

It’s a large, heavy treadmill best suited for a dedicated space, but the build quality absolutely matches its premium price point.

Quick Take

Stability and Feel

The F89 feels rock-solid. The deck is firm but comfortable, offering just enough give without feeling bouncy. It’s long enough for taller runners to stride naturally, and there’s zero wobble even at faster paces.

Most people probably don’t realize that a lot of the price for a treadmill is in the deck. It’s about the quality of the feel while running and this one is very good. You actually don’t want it to have a bunch of bounce, but to mimic more that dirt road kind of sensation. Certainly it’s  not what the $7000 Wahoo KICKR run feels like, but it’s great for this price point.

Speed and Incline Control

Whether you’re running steady-state miles or doing intervals, the treadmill handles pace changes smoothly.

You can adjust speed incrementally using the control on the console or jump to specific speeds quickly using side buttons. Incline changes are responsive, and the fact that it offers decline options adds a fun and challenging twist to hill workouts—something you don’t often find outside of luxury treadmills.

As noted, most treadmills only decline to -3%, so the –6% option is really fantastic for trail runners needing to train those quads.

Noise Level

This treadmill runs quietly. You can easily listen to music, follow a guided workout, or stream a show without needing to crank up the volume.

This has been a complaint with other lower priced options and is yet another reason we’re happy with this machine!

Console and Navigation

The console is simple and intuitive. It takes about 45 seconds to boot up, but once it’s on, it’s easy to navigate.

We’re starting to see this lag more commonly with all the treadmills that have a lot of WiFi components. It’s looking to connect, then check for upgrades and figure out if you’ve used the app previously so it needs to show any new information.

I love that you can either use SOLE’s built-in programming or stream from popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Spotify, and Amazon Video—all from the treadmill’s screen.

Since I have it in my garage where there is no TV nearby, this makes entertainment on long runs a million times easier.

The treadmill does also have tablet/phone holder, which is great for doing things like screen mirroring. Unlike the NordicTrack 2450 the screen does not rotate if you’re wanting to use Sole workouts for off the treadmill, you’ll need to use the app.

SOLE+ App Integration

The SOLE+ App comes free and includes access to hundreds of classes (guided runs, yoga, meditation, strength sessions, stretching, and more). I’ve used both the app and streaming platforms without any issues.

While some reviews mentioned issues with streaming apps, I only had to update once to get everything running smoothly. The treadmill speakers aren’t high-end, but they’re perfectly fine for following along with coaching cues. Plus, the built-in tablet holder is a nice touch if you prefer using your own device.

Setup and Space

The treadmill was professionally assembled for me (which I’d recommend). It’s large, heavy, and folds up at about a 45-degree angle. Like most full-sized treadmills, it takes up significant space and isn’t easy to move once set up—so it’s best if you have a dedicated workout area.

Another reason we recommend ordering directly from Sole, they provide the set up. And it is a truly valuable service when you’ve got electronics and a lot of features that need to work well for safety.

Comparing Sole Treadmills

The F89 is not their cheapest model, but we opted to review it because it feels most in line with the features we’ve found useful and that our athletes have told us matter.

HOWEVER, we would be remiss not to help you understand what’s different with some of the other models in case they are a better fit for your budget. Sole is a quality brand overall, so you can’t go wrong, it just depends on your needs.

Sole F63 – Entry Level for Walking and Light Running

Coach Amanda’s first ever home treadmill was the Sole F63 in 2008 which is still around for $1300. And you know she does her research! This is going to remind you more of an old school treadmill without a big screen and quick buttons to change your speed. Not fancy, but it works well.

• Lower tech, no touch screen, no streaming
• Still a decent 3.0HP motor
• Deck is a little more narrow
• Super easy to use
• Deck isn’t as comfortable for longer runs

Sole F80 – A Solid Basic Machine Under $2000

We have recommended this treadmill for YEARS. Of course they’ve made upgrades but the model number has remained the same as one of their primary machines.

• No decline option
• Smaller touch screen at 10.1 inches
• 3.5HP is good for most runners needs
• Still streaming options, access to the app
• Deck quality and stability won’t be as good as the higher models

Sole F85 – Ready for Long Runs

Ok now we’re bumping up to the level for those of you using it for marathon training and we’re seeing some additional features that will help. This is truly a VERY similar machine to the F89 and it’s a bit like when we get to the NordicTrack 1750 vs the 2450, you are going to do very well with either one just has a larger screen and is a tad more commercial (meaning heavy-duty usage).

• 4.0 horse power means quicker change for interval training
• -6% decline becomes available
• Larger touchscreen 15.6 inches
• Deck improves with larger rollers
• Bluetooth available, wireless charging
• Not as heavy duty as the F89, but still very sturdy

All right, that’s our Sole F89 Review, what other questions do you have? We’re happy to keep updating you has we pile on the miles here!

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