Smooth 9.35 Treadmill Review

  About Fred Waters

When I was recently at the Smooth headquarters I got to try out he Smooth 9.35 treadmill, which got a complete makeover for 2012.  The previous model had an excellent reputation for being a durable and low-maintenance machine, which was reflected in the generous warranty. However, in regards to specs it just was not matching up to the competition. The newer Smooth 9.35 treadmill exceeds the competition in a number of features.

This treadmill is an excellent choice for serious runners who want quality, but don't want to pay commercial grade treadmill prices.  although I would rate this as a light commercial grade model. This is a non-folding treadmill which makes it more solid. Also, the money that would go into the folding hydraulics is spent on improved components.

Note: The Smooth 9.35 treadmill typically sells for $1,999 with free shipping. A good value. Also, Smooth runs daily promotions, which vary from discounts and freebies. Go to SmoothFitness.comfor the latest deal.*

Smooth 9.35 Treadmill Features...

21" x 62" Treadbelt — The one serious deficiency of the older model was the length of the treadbelt  at only 55".  The new version comes with a 21" x 62" treadbelt, which is about 1" wider and 2" longer than most treadmills in the $2,000 price range.   This gives runners an extra comfort zone for those longer strides. 

4.0 Continuous Duty HP Motor — They jumped up the size of the motor considerably.  This is the size motor you would find on commercial grade treadmills.  The bottom line is that the chances of you having issues with the motor are about as slim as both parties in congress working together.  In addition to the motor running effortlessly, the larger size will contribute to it running very quietly. Which is what I experienced when I tested the 9.35. It was one of the quietist treadmills I've been on.

31 Workout Programs — They offer a generous selection of exercise routines.  The advantage is that you can change up challenges and avoid getting into a rut. 

Speaker System with MP3 Input — Smooth upgraded the sound systems on their treadmills.  They were not that bad previously, but are even better now.  Some treadmill manufacturers go cheap on their sounds systems so they can say they have one without spending too much money.  I've worked out treadmills were the sound quality was unbearable.  That is not the case with the Smooth 9.35. There are also tabs and a charger for a tablet computer.

Heart Rate Control with Wireless Chest Strap — This is a popular feature with customers.  You can control the level of your exertion by the rate of your heart.  By keeping your heart in different heart rate zones you can optimize your workout.  A popular technique used by professional athletes.

Virtual Trainer — Design to motivate you to continual progress. This is how it works.

1. You go online and select customized workouts created by certified professional trainers and upload it to a USB device.
2. You download the workout onto your treadmill. When you finish your time, heart rate, distance, calories burned and speed is recorded.
3. You reverse download the stats onto the USB device and upload to you computer. You can view your previous workouts and see your progress. You can also make changes to your customized workout to better achieve your fitness goals.

2-Speed Fan — Another popular feature on treadmills.  The advantage of having the fan built into the console is the breeze is directed at your core.

Toggle Switches on the Handrails — Rather than breaking your stride to reach for the console to make changes to your speed or incline, you have controls conveniently located on the siderails.

3" Rollers — Above average size rollers.   Larger rollers means the treadbelt has more surface to connect to, reducing chances of slippage.  The larger rollers extend the life of the motor, belt and bearings.  It also reduces the noise level.

Shock Absorption — Most treadmills use rubber grommets for shock absorption. The Smooth 9.35 uses "O" rings, which better accommodates the intense impact of runners. The shock absorption on the 9.35 offers a nice balance that absorbs shock without overcompensating.

Non-Folding — If you are in the market for a serious running machine you probably do not want a folding treadmill. Folding treadmills require more parts for the folding mechanism, and the ability to fold compromises on the stability. You will notice there are no folding treadmills in a health club — there is a reason for that.

Generous Warranty — You get lifetime coverage on the motor, 7-years parts and 2-year service.  Smooth is one of the few companies that offers more than 5-year parts at this price range.  Which suggests their components are built to last.

297 Lb. Unit Weight — A fairly heavy machine.  There is no question that no matter how hard you run the treadmill will feel very solid. You probably want to opt for the inside delivery.

Our Review — Smooth 9.35 Treadmill

With the recent upgrades of the 2012 Smooth 9.35, you have one of the best running machines available at the $2,000 price range. I would say it is comparable to the Sole F85. However, with the Smooth 9.35 you get a better warranty, bigger motor, more installed programs and the interactive MySmooth technology.

When talking to the head of their Customer Service, Jim Mugford said he would be very comfortable selling the Smooth 9.35 in a light commercial environment.

For more details go to SmoothFitness.com.