Sole SC200 Stepper Review

Climb in comfort! Unlike traditional stair climbing machines the Sole SC200 Stepper was raised to respect knees, hips and other sensitive joints. It keeps the user’s body in constant contact with the machine instead of allowing the harsh impact like that associated with running and real-life stair climbing. Much like an elliptical trainer the SC200 is low-impact on joints even when exercise is high intensity, but unlike an elliptical its pedal motion is more up-and-down than forward-and-back. For total-body training the user can add upper body movement with the Sole Stepper’s moving handlebars, which have convenient resistance controls built into the tips. Twenty levels of resistance are provided with a 17-pound drive, making the SC200 an especially good fit for novices and intermediate trainees. Advanced athletes can also benefit in terms of cardio training and rapid calorie burn but might want more resistance for strength training. For convenient home use this fitness machine has a compact frame (56″ long x 28″ wide), virtually silent operation and integrated transport wheels.

Workout programming and stats are shown on a 7.5-inch LCD with adjustable angle, plus they can show on a mobile device running the Sole Fitness app. Either way, the workout selection is the same as that on Sole Fitness elliptical trainers: manual mode, two user-designed workouts, two workouts controlled by heart rate, and five classics: Cardio, Fat Burn, Hill, Interval and Strength. With the Sole Fitness app, an unlimited number of users can set up profiles and save their own workouts. For the heart rate controlled workouts, measurement can be taken with a compatible chest strap (not included) or built-in touch sensors on the stationary handlebars. The wireless method is most accurate and convenient, especially for more intense workouts. All electronics on the Sole SC200 are under warranty for three years, as are the parts.

Special features on the Sole Stepper SC200 console include a personal cooling fan, a secure tablet holder, speakers and a port for an MP3 players, a water bottle holder and a small storage area.

The online sale price of $899 and a competitive warranty help make the Sole Stepper a top low-impact cardio trainer under $1000. The residential warranty provides lifetime coverage for the frame, three years for parts and electronics, and a year of labor. Sole Fitness is one of the few brands that provides all service in-home.

Our Favorite Features

• Supports fast calorie burn
• Low impact
• Ergonomic pedals
• 20 resistance levels
• 10 training programs
• Heart rate controlled workouts
• Can save customized routines
• Wireless and contact heart rate monitoring
• Tablet holder
• MP3 player port and speakers
• Adjustable console
• Cooling fan
• Bottle holder
• Compact size

Our Least Favorite Features

• Preset workout selection is limited
• Not powerful enough for advanced athletes

The Bottom Line

Uncommon for a stair climber machine, the Sole SC200 Stepper offers high-intensity training without harsh impact. It’s low priced yet can be expected to deliver the high quality that’s typical of the Sole brand.

Recent Updates

October 12, 2022: The Sole SC200 Stepper has been marked as discontinued, with the best alternative option being the Sole E55 elliptical.