Sole E35 Elliptical Review: Built Like a Gym Machine for Home
Sole E35 elliptical review: 20-inch stride, 25 lb flywheel, 20 resistance and power incline levels, 350 lb limit, adjustable pedals, size and weight, and who should buy it.
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The Sole E35 has been one of the most recommended home ellipticals for years, mostly because it feels sturdier than the lightweight machines that dominate the budget end. It is heavy, it has a full 20-inch stride, and its pedals are designed with sore knees and feet in mind.
Here is what that means in practice, and who should consider something smaller.
The short version
The Sole E35 is a heavy-duty, rear-drive elliptical with a 20-inch stride, a 25 lb flywheel, 20 levels each of magnetic resistance and power incline, and a 350 lb user limit. It feels stable and smooth for most body sizes. It is also big and heavy, so measure your room and ceiling before buying.
- Best for: people who want a stable, long-lasting elliptical for regular use, including taller and heavier users.
- Skip it if: you have a small room or low ceiling, or want a machine you can move around easily.
- Standout spec: 20-inch stride with adjustable, cushioned pedals.
How we put this review together
We did not run a long-term test of the E35, and we are not going to pretend we did. This review is built from Sole’s published specifications, the manual and independent reviews from established fitness publications. Sole updates its models, so details such as the console vary by year. Prices change constantly, so we do not list them.
Sole E35 specs at a glance
What we like about the Sole E35
A full 20-inch stride
Cheap ellipticals often have 14 to 18 inch strides that feel choppy for anyone of average height or taller. A 20-inch stride feels closer to a natural walking or running step for most adults. That is the single biggest reason people upgrade to a machine like the E35.
Stable and smooth
The current model weighs roughly 220 lb and uses a 25 lb flywheel with rear-drive design. Reviewers consistently describe it as stable at higher speeds, without the side-to-side wobble common on lighter machines. The 350 lb user limit leaves plenty of margin.
Joint-friendly pedals
Sole’s pedals are oversized, cushioned and adjustable. They also articulate slightly as you move. Sole designs them to reduce strain on the knees and ankles, and many owners with foot or knee issues mention them as a reason they chose this machine.
Resistance and incline range
With 20 levels of magnetic resistance and a power incline, there is room to progress from easy recovery sessions to hard intervals. Raising the incline shifts more work toward the glutes and hamstrings.
What could be better
Size and weight
At around 70 inches long and 70 inches tall, it needs a dedicated spot. Moving it after assembly is a two-person job. Check doorways too; our door clearance guide shows how to measure.
Ceiling height
You stand on pedals that rise above the floor, and the incline raises them further. Add your height to the highest pedal position and leave a few inches of headroom. Basements with low ceilings can be a problem.
Assembly
It arrives in a large, heavy box and takes time to build. Many owners recommend two people or professional assembly. Our assembly guide covers the basics.
Console features vary by year
The latest version has a touchscreen and Bluetooth, while older stock may have a simpler LCD. Check which version a listing is selling.
Pros and cons
Pros
- 20-inch stride suits most heights
- Heavy, stable frame with a 350 lb user limit
- Cushioned, adjustable pedals
- 20 resistance levels and power incline
- Lifetime frame warranty
Cons
- Large and heavy
- Needs a tall ceiling
- Assembly is a big job
- Features differ between model years
Who should buy the Sole E35 (and who shouldn’t)
Buy it if you plan to use an elliptical several times a week for years, want a stable machine for a bigger or taller body, or have knees and feet that need a smooth, cushioned motion.
Skip it if your space is small, your ceiling is low, or you only plan light, occasional use. A compact elliptical or a recumbent bike will cost less and take less room. Our elliptical vs treadmill guide can help if you are still deciding on machine type.
Tips for using the E35
Start with 15 to 20 minutes at a low resistance and no incline. Stand tall, keep your weight in your heels and avoid gripping the handles too hard. If you are new to ellipticals, our low-impact elliptical routines are a gentle place to start, at any age.
Alternatives to consider
- Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike: seated, low-impact cardio with back support and a much smaller price.
- Cubii Move: a seated under-desk elliptical for gentle daily movement.
- Concept2 RowErg: full-body cardio that stores upright.
FAQ
What is the Sole E35 weight limit?
Sole lists a 350 lb max user weight for the current model.
What is the stride length?
20 inches.
Does the Sole E35 need to be plugged in?
Yes, it plugs into a standard household outlet.
How much ceiling height do I need?
Measure your height plus the highest pedal height, then add a few inches of headroom. If in doubt, ask the seller for the maximum pedal height at full incline.
Bottom line
The Sole E35 is a solid, long-term home elliptical with a stride and pedal design that suit most bodies. If you have the room and the ceiling height, it is one of the safest bets in its class.
Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine if you have heart, joint or balance conditions.
This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to a qualified professional before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have an injury or health condition.