The Best Shock Absorption Treadmill

Thanks to some excellent cushioning technology in treadmills these days, we don’t have to give up running due to our sensitive knees and joints.

In this article, we’ve picked and reviewed the 5 best shock absorption treadmills on the market, along with our top three choices and buying guide so that you can choose the one that best meets your needs and budget.

Many treadmills have multiple ways of shock absorption, both within the deck itself and also with the polymers connecting the deck to the frame.

“You get what you pay for with treadmill cushioning.”

Treadmills under a thousand dollars have basic cushioning, anything about $1500 has decent cushioning, and anything over $1500 will have a fantastic multiple-density cushioning system.

However, some brands may offer good cushioning technology in the budget range. Read the article to find the best cushioning treadmills in all price ranges and for different purposes.

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What are the Best Shock Absorption Treadmills

Here are our top picks for the best shock absorption treadmill:

1. Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
2. Best Durable Shock Absorbing Treadmill: Sole F80
3. Best Cushioned Treadmill for Streaming: Horizon 7.4 AT
4. Best Compact Shock Absorbing Treadmill: LifeSpan TR4000i
5. Best Cushioned Treadmill for Walking: XTERRA TR150

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1. NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Our Top Choice Best Cushioned Treadmill for Running

This NordicTrack Treadmill features a Flex Select cushioning system, which is very efficient in absorbing impact and giving you an effortless run. It’s one of the best treadmills on the market.

This foldable treadmill builds with a 3.75 CHP motor that can handle speeds up to 12 mph, and the 22″ x 60″ commercial tread belt provides you plenty of room for running. 

Its 14″ HD touchscreen display is easy to use and provides 30-day iFit membership, which will spice up your treadmill workouts.

2. Sole F80

The Best Durable Shock Absorption Treadmill

The Sole Fitness F80 treadmill integrates a Cushion Flex Whisper Deck technology, reducing impact by up to 40% compared to running on asphalt, making it a great choice for runners with joint pain. 

This folding treadmill builds with a 3.5 CHP motor, which can handle your intense workouts, and the 22″ x 60″ Cushion Flex Whisper Deck is ideal for running. 

The Sole Fitness offer a 375 pounds weight capacity and lifetime frame, and motor warranty makes it more appealing to runners. It also provides Bluetooth connectivity and a variety of built-in workout programs.

3. Horizon 7.4 AT

The Best Cushioned Treadmill for Streaming

The Horizon 7.4 AT treadmill comes with a 3-zone variable response cushioning system, which helps minimize the impact in all phases of your stride, allowing for a more natural and comfortable stride. 

In terms of performance, the 7.4 AT treadmill offers a 3.5 CHP motor and a 20-inch wide by 60-inch long running surface — an ideal combination of features you need for running.

You’ll also get various workout programs and streaming options to choose from a wide range of workouts to match your mood.

4. LifeSpan TR4000i

The Best Shock Absorption Home Treadmill

The Lifespan TR4000i Folding Treadmill has a classy design with excellent shock absorption technology. This folding treadmill provides a spacious 22″ x 60″ running surface, which is 2.2mm thick and supported by 8 compression shocks that help you stride comfortably while reducing vibrations and sound. 

The TR4000i cushioned treadmill powers with a 3.25 CHP motor that speeds up to 12 mph, and its 13 inclines and 2 decline levels add more excitement to your running session.

This durable treadmill also gives premium-sound Bluetooth speakers, a USB charging port, a touch sensor heart rate monitor, and 350 pounds of maximum weight capacity.

5. XTERRA TR150

The Best Affordable Shock Absorption Treadmill for Walkers

The XTERRA TR150 is one of the best affordable folding treadmills on the market, offering a good shock absorption system. Its XTRASoft cushioned deck technology absorbs maximum impacts and keeps joints safe and comfortable.

The TR150 budget treadmill provides a 2.25 HP motor and a 16-inch wide by 50-inch long trade belt, making it suitable for walking and light jogging. And its foldable design makes it easy to store when not in use.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shock Absorbing Treadmill

Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind when buying a cushioned treadmill:

Type of Cushioning Systems

The treadmill cushioning is one of the crucial features we should check out, especially when we have any previous joint and knee strain or want to do high-intensity workouts.

Compared to road running, treadmill cushioning helps reduce our stride impact by up to 40%.

Different types of cushioned decks are integrated by the manufacturer, such as the brand’s unique cushion system, multiple-layer belt, and polymers connecting the deck to the frame.

Fortunately, most higher-end modern treadmills offer superior cushioning technology, and the shock-absorbing treadmills piked in this article are a great example of that.

However, you should be mindful to choose a well-cushioned deck when buying budget treadmills.

Belt Quality

Typically, the thicker the belt, the more shock absorption it will provide. It’s always good to have a tread belt that is at least 2-ply and/or made of durable materials like PVC or rubber.

Deck Size

A longer and wider running surface can provide more comfort and safety during training, especially if you’re a tall person.

Consider a treadmill deck at least 20 inches wide and 55 inches long for jogging, whereas runners need about a 20″ x 60″ deck. A slightly smaller deck may be sufficient for walkers, which will help to save some dollars.

Motor Horsepower

The motor is the heart of the treadmill. A powerful motor is always preferable that can handle your workouts.

Look for a motor with at least 2.0 horsepower for walking and 3.0 horsepower or higher (with a max speed of 12 mph) if you want to do interval training.

Frame Stability and Durability

Whether you want a walking or running treadmill, choose a machine with a heavy-duty frame that can give you a stable and smooth running experience over the years.

Look at the treadmill’s weight capacity to make sure it can support your weight and handle intense workouts. However, cheaper treadmills may have slightly low capacity.

Related: The Best Treadmills for Heavy People

You may also want to check other features like console, exercise programs, incline, tablet holder, Bluetooth functioning, etc.

Check out the treadmill buying guide to know more about the features of a treadmill and how you can choose the best one for your needs and budget.

Final Word

When buying a shock-absorbing treadmill, make sure to pay extra attention to the above factors to make a wiser decision.

You can go through our chart of the best shock-absorption treadmills to know the top cushioning treadmills on the market.

Remember, each shock absorbing treadmill we’ve picked offers different features and benefits, so be sure to choose the best one that meets your needs and fitness goals.

So… There we have it: Best shock absorbing treadmills.

If you have any questions regarding the best cushioned treadmills, feel free to comment down below. We’d love to help you out.

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