ProForm 350 Treadmill ReviewGiven the sales figures, ProForm would appear to be onto a winner with models like the 350. Most people don't have thousands to invest in a treadmill and manufacturers oblige with cheap and cheerful machines like this one. The 350 is right at the budget end of the market and can be had for under $400. Now we're not fans of cheap treadmills for a host of reasons, but the 350 is far from the worst in this price category. So what's it like...?
ProForm 350 Treadmill Review - What's it Like...?Now, to turn out a treadmill for these kind of prices inevitably means that corners have to be cut - even when the manufacturer is a giant like Icon Health and Fitness.As you'd expect, this is a very basic machine. As for the essentials, the 350 has a 2.25 THP motor, which delivers a mere 1.5 HP continuous duty - 2.25 is the peak power output so don't be fooled into thinking that you're getting a more powerful motor than is really the case. A motor this size is only good for walking on, not jogging or running. ProForm claims that the treadmill is capable of speeds up to 10 mph - but it really strains at that speed, although at a brisk walking pace it seems ok. The power incline with a max 10% gradient will help add a little intensity to your workout if needed. The small belt provides a walking area of just 50" by 17", so take care not to fall off! Walkers should be ok, but there's little room to really stretch out on. Another area where costs have been cut is the cushioning on the deck. The Pro Soft Impact Absorption reduces foot impact but is not a particularly comfortable surface to walk on - although tarmac is far less forgiving! The build quality is ok for this price range and the ProForm 350 treadmill doesn't feel as flimsy, unstable and insubstantial as some models from other budget brands we've tried. However, I wouldn't want to test the claimed 250lb max user weight! This is a folding treadmill and one of the advantages of its rather lightweight construction is that it's easy to move around when not in use. The electronics and controls are limited to the power and incline control, pulse grip sensors, cooling fans and a calorie counter. No workout programs, though. ProForm are brave to give the motor a three year warranty, but there's only 90 days on the parts and labour. If you're on a budget and the 350 appeals to you then don't pay the $499-$599 that you'll usually see it sold at. The cheapest place to buy it online that we've found is for $399 at WorkoutWarehouse
Proform 350 Treadmill Review - How Does it Rate...?
As with most things in life you get what you pay for and the ProForm 350 treadmill is a budget machine that offers pretty good value for money at $399 and is one of the better under $500 buys. Don't expect too much and you're less likely to be disappointed. This a basic, affordable treadmill for walking on that won't take up too much space in your spare room and shouldn't fall apart after a couple of weeks of use. If that's what you're looking for, there are far worse choices you could make than the ProForm 350 treadmill. Check it out at WorkoutWarehouse
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