Spirit Fitness XT385 Treadmill Review

  About Fred Waters

Sold primarily in fitness equipment specialty stores, Spirit X treadmills seem to be reliable, well-built machines.  The Spirit XT385 model is no exception!

The Spirit XT385 is slightly smaller and has a little less power than the XT485, which is the next model up in the X series.  The XT385 also costs less than the XT485 and is, therefore, more affordable for most treadmill buyers.  You still get a dependable, quality machine for your money.

Of course, the smaller running surface on the XT385 will not be quite as comfortable as the larger one on the XT485, if you’re someone of great stature.  Also, the lower horsepower motor won’t accommodate sprinters and heavier users quite as well as the more powerful motor on the XT485.  Nonetheless, the Spirit XT385 is more than adequate to meet the needs of the average user and is, by far, stronger and sturdier than cheaper model treadmills.  

Note: The comparable model from Sole is the Sole F83 — built by the same manucfacturer. Although, if you do not need a folding treadmill the Sole S77 is a better buy. Both come with a 2-year labor warranty.

A Closer Look at the Features on the Spirit XT385 Treadmill

For a treadmill in its price range, you expect a decent machine with nice features.  In fact, you hope that the features exceed those found on lower-end treadmill models.  I don’t think you will be disappointed in what the Spirit XT385 has to offer.

Listed below are some of the features found on this particular X-series treadmill:

• A frame made of commercial grade structural steel makes for a sturdy, heavy-weight piece of equipment.  The assembled weight of the XT385 is 264 pounds.  Such construction promises a smooth, steady, wobble-free workout.
• 3.0 HP continuous duty motor is perfect for walking and light jogging.  Serious runners would probably do better with a little more power.
• The XT385 folds for convenient and easy storage.  The “Soft-Drop” assist feature allows for gentle setup and helps prevent damage to your floor or possible injury to children.
• The 2.75-inch rear roller is large enough to keep the treadbelt running smoothly and quietly.  This roller is larger than rollers found on most other treadmill brands.  Its size helps eliminate excess wear and tear on the belt, bearings, and motor.
• The 20” x 58” running surface is a couple of inches shorter than the running surface found on the Spirit XT475.  However, it is a few inches longer than running surfaces found on many other residential tread machines.  There is plenty of room to accommodate the exercise requirements of most individuals.
• The incline level goes all the way up to a 15% incline.  Most treadmills only incline up to a maximum grade of 12% or less.
• Cooling fans built into the console provide cooler, more comfortable workouts.
• Console speakers let you listen to your favorite music or audio book as you burn fat and calories.
• Handle-based controls make it easy to adjust speed and incline levels, without interrupting your workout. A feature I particularly like.
• Heart rate controls have become rather common on most treadmills.  The great thing about the heart rate control on the Spirit XT385 is that it has a couple of methods for monitoring your heart rate.  You can either use the contact sensors or wear the provided Polar telemetry belt.
• One feature that really stands out is the 10 year parts warranty.  Most treadmills in this price range have 3-5 years of coverage.  Says something about the quality of the components.

Our Review—The Spirit XT385 Treadmill

The Spirit XT385 treadmill is another quality Dyaco product.  (Dyaco is also the maker of Sole treadmills, which we have found to be strong, dependable machines, and has received a couple of "Best Buy" ratings from us.)  Yes, it costs a little more than other comparable models.  But, always remember that you get what you pay for!  Spend a little extra on this treadmill and expect to own a treadmill that will last for years to come.

Note: They put the user weight limit at 375 lbs. Although this is a quality machine, I feel that is over the top. More of the kind of weight limit you would find on a top of the line commercial model. I would suggest the limit should be around 300 lbs.

Also see the Spirit Fitness XT285 Treadmill Review.