Sole E35 Elliptical (2024) Review



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Sole E35 Elliptical (2024) Rating

Features
Display Console
Durability
Customer Service
Overall Rating

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Detailed Overview

When reviewing Sole ellipticals, I’m always impressed by the company’s commitment to quality. The Sole E35 elliptical happens to be a step above the brand’s entry level E25, and thanks to improved specs it can suit anyone from novice to intermediate user. Offered at a manufacturer suggested retail price of $2,999.99, the Sole E35 can be purchased online for as low as $1,499.99. This year’s Sole E35 has more built-in tech than previous models I’ve seen, and it brings a whole host of features including Bluetooth connectivity for mobile fitness apps and music playback, as well as a USB charging port. Key specs include a front-drive design with 25 -pound flywheel, a natural 20-inch stride with forward/reverse motion, and a power-adjustable ramp with 20 levels of incline for targeted muscle toning. Upper-body workout variety is supported with multi-position grips on the moving handlebars.

As I’ve seen while writing several of our Sole elliptical reviews, excellent ergonomics are always a big selling point for the brand’s machines. There are a few key elements to the design of the Sole E35 elliptical that play into this. For starters, a two-degree inward slope of its pedals as recommended by physical therapists. A reasonable amount of pedal cushioning and the choice of three pedal angles to support differing gaits. The pedals are uniquely oversized and adjustable for greater comfort.

The Sole E35 is a relatively compact machine overall, thanks to its front-drive configuration. It’s not a folding unit, so you’ll still have to accommodate its 70- x 31-inch footprint in your home gym, but it’s far from being the largest elliptical on the market right now. The machine, like many other pieces of fitness equipment, has integrated transport wheels. These will allow you to roll the machine into a corner of the room when not in use in order to free up a bit of extra space. The use of whisper-quiet magnetic resistance also makes the Sole E35 elliptical well suited for home gym use. It won’t take up too much space, nor will it wake up your pets and neighbors during use. The unit is only 211 pounds so rolling it around the room isn’t hard at all.

All told, 10 different workout programs are built into the Sole E35’s console and the machine also syncs with the Sole+ app. These programs are displayed via a fairly bare-bones 7.5″ backlit LCD display screen. As a nice bonus, programming can also run through a user’s tablet or smartphone if preferred given the high-quality media shelf. Trainees can choose from manual mode, two heart programs, and a set of other training programs focused around calorie burn, muscle toning, and other fitness aspects. The machine is also capable of saving a pair of customized workout programs, should users opt to build out their own resistance/time/incline training regimen on the Sole E35 elliptical. Users are also able to record and save their training data for export to MyFitnessPal, FitBit, and countless other mobile apps.

The new Sole E35 Elliptical has a fabulous warranty, with a lifetime guarantee on both the frame and flywheel, as well as two years on parts and one year for labor. That’s a great warranty considering the $1,499.99 price tag

Why You Should Trust Our Review Of The Sole E35

At EllipticalReviews.com, we bring you comprehensive reviews of exercise equipment so you can decide which one is right for you. Our staff thoroughly test all the ellipticals we review. We install them, ride them, and try out all of the features. We get to know each and every elliptical we review extremely well. Our reviewers log miles riding. We listen and record the sound of the machine, try out all aspects of the console and try the machine’s features.

Every elliptical we review undergoes the same rigorous process. That way we can compare and contrast them and give you an honest review of what we think.

Our reviewers are fitness experts. Brian, the author of this review, is a competitive bodybuilder, and is a 7-time national qualifier in both men’s bodybuilding and classic physique within the NPC competitions. He has coached and been coached on cardiovascular training, HIIT, and nutrition, particularly as it pertains to weight loss for competitions. He is an expert when it comes to ellipticals, has been on this elliptical, and you can trust his opinion on all of the machines he reviews.

In Brief

The Sole E35 is one of two entry-level ellipticals offered by the brand. The 10.1″ touchscreen display console with white backlit LCD, WiFi, screen mirroring. Measuring 70″ x 31″ x 70″ at a machine weight 211 pounds, the elliptical can support up to 350 pounds in user weight. Programming-wise, I’m impressed with the 10 built-in programs plus apps, as well as the Sole+ program. There’s no question you’ll be able to roll cost-free if you so choose to go without a paid app program. Engineered with a solid 25-pound flywheel, the elliptical sports 20 levels of magnetic resistance and 20 levels of incline. Yes, it has Bluetooth speakers and heart rate sensors built into the handlebars. All in all, the Sole E35 is a good entry-level elliptical if that’s what you’re wanting.


Sole E35 Elliptical (2024) - Notable Specs:

Overall Rating:4-stars
Compact / Folding:No
Incline:0 to 20 degrees
Stride Length:20 inches
Flywheel:25 LBS
Programs:10 programs
Fan:Yes
Weight Capacity:350 LBS
Dimensions:70" L x 31" W x 70" H

In-Depth Review of the Sole E35

Why We Like It

This elliptical brings a lot of bang for the buck, from my perspective. A good entry-level elliptical that I can see working for anyone from teenager to senior citizen, it brings more than enough programming options to satisfy the average customer. Priced and warrantied right, it’s compact enough for a home and not so small as to present stability programs. The number of built-in programs also guarantees you won’t have to pay for programming if you don’t want to.

It Has A Nice 10.1″ Console

In reviewing ellipticals over the years, it’s occurred to me that customers either like big, flashy screens or they don’t. If that’s what you want, keep in mind the cost goes up and they typically only work with one program. For those who are who more interested in built-in programs and bringing their own entertainment, the Sole lineup is a great choice. In addition to the 10.1 touchscreen display with screen mirroring and WiFi, the console includes a built-in media rack that works incredibly well. I’ve never had a problem securing my tablet into a Sole holder, which sets atop the console. Controls for everything from resistance to the fan are easy to reach and use.

 

Sole+ Fitness App

Sole definitely makes the E35 easy to use. With a great cost-free app like the Sole+ as well as seven built-in programs, you’re all set once you’ve purchased the machine. The Sole+ app provides more than 3,000 on-demand workout routines that range from 10 to 60 minutes. With the elliptical’s built-in heart rate sensors and Bluetooth capabilities, the machine can transfer your cardio numbers to the Sole+ app for workout integration. Workout categories run the gamut from cardio to strength and professional trainers serve as instructors. From my perspective, the Sole+ app is one of the best free programs around. Nowhere as dynamic as some of the paid apps, let’s face it, it’s free. But the fact the app syncs with your machine is a big plus. Overall, I’d say this is a big value-added bonus.

Great Heart Rate Monitoring

In addition to built-in handlebar sensors, the Sole E35 is Bluetooth-enabled and can be used with a separate strap. In my experience using the machine, the built-in heart rate sensors were very consistent with my Oura Ring. But if you want to upgrade to a chest strap, Sole has those for sale separately.

Sole E35 Dimensions

The dimensions of the Sole E25 measure 70″ x 31″ x 70″ and the machine comes with a step-up height of 14″. Given the motion of the elliptical when in use, I’d recommend placement in a room with at least 8-foot ceilings.

Sole E35 Machine Weight

The Sole E25 weighs 211 pounds and can support up to 350 pounds.

What We Like:

  • Cost-Free Workout Programming

    Given that the Sole+ app is free and the unit comes with 10 built-in programs, I can see lots of opportunities to exercise without paying a monthly subscription. You can also bring your own tablet and watch Netflix or Hulu if you want.

  • Budget-Friendly Price

    Priced online at $1,499.99 against an MSRP of $2,999.99, the Sole E35 brings a great package for the dollar.

  • Great Resistance

    With a 25-pound flywheel and 20 levels of incline and resistance, there’s no question you’ll never outgrow this model. Personally, I can tire myself out pretty quickly with even a few levels of magnetic resistance. No matter your level of conditioning, you’ll feel this machine’s effects the next day.

  • Bluetooth Speakers and Connectivity

    I had no problem syncing my devices with this machine in a matter of seconds.

  • Great Warranty

    The Sole brand offers great warranties. The E25 offers a lifetime guarantee on the frame and flywheel, two years for parts, and one year for labor.

What We Don’t Like:

  • In-Home Assembly Costs

    Sole will deliver the treadmill to your home for free, but having it taken to the room of your choice is an additional $199, with in-home assembly running $350. That’s higher than the norm.

This Elliptical Could Be For You If You Want:

  • A budget-friendly elliptical
  • A next-up entry-level model of elliptical
  • 20 levels of silent magnetic resistance
  • Built-in workout programs
  • A 10.1″ LCD screen
  • A lifetime guarantee on the fame and flywheel

Our Verdict:

We rank the E35 highly for a number of reasons. The lifetime warranty alone is a good indicator of quality, but when you add up the other goodies, from 10 built-in programs to 20 levels of resistance, it’s just tough to beat. If you’re in the hunt for a real workout partner, then the E35 is a solid go-to for the money.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sole E35 elliptical worth it?

The Sole E35 elliptical is a viable option for anyone who enjoys low-impact running. It’s a great way to ease back into fitness after an injury, especially since you can also incorporate strength training. The arms handles work the upper body, and you can work different muscles in the legs by changing your movement. Forward motion works the quads, while the calves and hamstrings are worked when pedalling backward.

How much does the Sole E35 elliptical weigh?

The Sole E35 weighs 211 lbs, with a max. user weight capacity of 350 lbs.

What year did the Sole E35 elliptical come out?

Sole released their E35 elliptical in 2012, and it's been updated every couple of years since then.

Is the Sole E35 elliptical quiet?

Yes, the Sole E35 is relatively quiet when in use. It shouldn’t be a bother to neighbors or others at home, especially considering there's no repetitive thumping of running feet as experienced with treadmill use.

Does the Sole E35 elliptical fold up?

No.

How is Sole Fitness's customer service?

If you’re a fan of live chat, Sole doesn’t offer this option. However, the company's phone support line is quick and painless. Unlike many fitness companies, you aren’t pressured to make a purchase. My representative was very knowledgeable and was able to answer all of my questions without hesitation.

2 Comments

  • John Maslar February 5, 2019 at 7:19 pm from PA
    I'm 6'3" ceiling height is an issue,how much clearance will I have to the ceiling when I stand on this machine?
    • Elliptical Reviews Team February 6, 2019 at 8:22 pm
      Hi John, Thanks for writing in. The height of the E35 is 5'6" feet from base to the top of the handle. The stride variation is between 1' - 2' feet. Therefore, if you average 1'6" feet of step-up height for the pedals and you are currently 6'3" (7'9") it would require that you have AT LEAST 8' of clearance to use the machine. Just to be safe, I would add on another 8" - 12" of clearance, which would put the total to 9'. Hope this helps!

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