Sole SC300 Stepper – Two Machines In One
Sole SC300 Stepper
Web Price: $2,299 | Sale Price: $1,299
First introduced in 2017, it joins the SC200 as the second hybrid elliptical trainer in the lineup designed to target the lower body. This one adds incline to the mix.
Resistance:
ECB
FootPrint:
56″ L x 18″ W x 60″ H
Overview: The Sole SC300 Stepper is one of two hybrid ellipticals in the company’s lineup, joining the SC200 that was introduced a short while ago. Both machines are half elliptical/half step machine, designed to provide a more complete lower body workout while minimizing impact on your joints. The SC300 adds incline capability to the mix, providing an even more challenging workout.
Here are some of the best features on the SC300…
Incline Capability
We start with the main improvement on the base SC200 model, which is the fact that the SC300 comes with 20 levels of incline. That is the only real difference, and something to consider if you like the ability to ramp up your workouts and make them even more challenging. Incline is a rear feature on elliptical trainers, so when you do find it it’s very exciting.
Two Workouts in One
The Sole SC300 allows you to do two different types of workouts: the typical elliptical workout and a stepper workout combined. You can enjoy the full body benefits of both, with more of an emphasis on your leg and glute muscles. And you can enjoy the same low impact that these machines are known for.
Compact Design
One of the advantages over a regular elliptical is its compact size. The SC300 is only 56″ longer, over 20″ shorter than a traditional cross trainer, which makes it a great option for those with limited space in their home gyms. At only 165 lbs., it’s much more portable as well, especially given the fact that it includes transport wheels.
Workout Diversity
The SC300 gives you a variety of built in workouts, including ones that target your heart. You also get up to 20 different resistance levels to choose from. Combine that with the 20 incline levels and you can really change up your workout from one day to the next. This machine will definitely help you reach your fitness goals, whether you want to lose weight or tone up your muscles, or just simply get into better shape.
The Sole SC300 Stepper Test Drive
UPDATE: As of 2019 it looks like the SC300 might have been discontinued as it is no longer being featured on the company site. As such take a look at the SC200 elliptical if you are interested in a hybrid machine.
Right off the bat we have to say we enjoyed the SC300 more than the SC200 for one simple reason…the incline capability is a game changer. Having the ability to add a hill element to the workout is great, and something that you just don’t find on many hybrid ellipticals, including the popular Bowflex Max Trainers.
If you’re used to a regular elliptical, or a regular step machine, then the SC300 does take some getting used to. However, once you’re up and running (or walking as it were) it feels very natural and smooth. Typically, hybrid ellipticals tend to feel cheaply made, but the SC300 feels very sturdy. It has a 350 lb. max weight capacity, 20 lbs. heavier than the SC200 and 50 lbs. heavier than the high-end Max Trainer M7. (Note that the SC300 is about $900 cheaper as well.)
The workout programs are diverse and give you plenty to choose from. Transitioning from one incline level to the next, or one resistance level to the next, is relatively seamless…oftentimes you heard loud noises during transitions on some of these machines. You can increase or decrease both on the machine itself or on the stationary handlebars.
The SC300 has a nice large 9.0″ LCD display, a step up from the 7.5″ one on the base model. It also offers Bluetooth technology for workout tracking, something that is not currently on the SC200 stepper.
All in all, our Sole SC300 reviews revealed a capable and well-built machine, with enough to keep you motivated and working towards your fitness goals. It doesn’t have many bells and whistles, but it’s a solid elliptical trainer and a great choice if a hybrid machine appeals to you.
Conclusion
The hybrid elliptical market is ever-expanding, as these compact machines are becoming more and more popular. The SC200 from Sole is definitely one of the better ones out there, especially given the fact that you have the ability to incline the machine.
At around $1300 or so on sale it’s also considerably cheaper than some of the other ones on the market, yet the quality and craftsmanship is top-notch.