When referring to treadmill belts, it can be confusing. Some people use the term “treadmill belt” to refer to treadmill running decks size, while other people mean the belt itself.
This article is all about the belt itself.
If you’re looking for information about treadmill running surface size, read my article “What Size of Treadmill Running Surface Area is Right for You?“ If you’re looking to learn more about the treadmill deck, read my article “Treadmill Deck Info: Treadmill Decks Materials and Warranty.”
Quality Treadmill Belt Materials and Construction
Look for a treadmill whose treadbelt is 2 layers. The top layer, or out layer on 2-ply treadbelts is typically a polyurethane. The bottom layer, or inner layer, is often a nylon-polyester weave. Some treadmills have more than 2 layers by separating the nylon weave by adding a separate PVC or rubber layer.
Each layer serves a distinct purpose. The top layer is to provide traction, yet be durable since you’ll be pounding your feet on it over and over.
The bottom layer is the strength of the belt holding it together. If there’s a separate PVC or rubber layer, the function is to hold the treadbelt together and prevent stretching.
With respect to the nylon layer, you want a quality weave because it undergoes a great deal of friction by passing over the treadmill rollers and treadmill deck.
How can you tell if the bottom woven layer is quality?
The tighter the weave, the better the quality. You can tell it’s a tight weave if it’s smooth to the touch.
It’s important that your bottom layer be a quality weave so that it won’t wear out too quickly. That said, all treadmill belts do wear out over time. How long your treadbelt lasts depends on how often you use your treadmill, how high of a speed you use your treadmill, and of course the quality of the treadbelt.
Treadmill Belt Maintenance
It’s also important that you maintain your treadmill belt. This is to keep yourself safe, as well as to extend the life of your treadmill.
One of the most important things you can do (which, thankfully, is also relatively easy and inexpensive) is to make sure there is adequate lubrication underneath the treadmill belt. Treadmills work by turning the belt over a flat surface between two large rollers. The motor also has to overcome the increased friction that occurs each time you step on the belt surface.
The most common way to lubricate the area between the treadmill belt and the surface underneath is with a kit that usually consists of a flat wand-like tool that has a spongy and absorbent surface.
You place lubricating fluid on this surface, then slide the tool into the space underneath the belt and hold it in place while you slowly run the treadmill (without anyone on it, of course). This distributes the lubricating fluid underneath the belt, and should be done every few months.
It’s also important to pay attention to the tension of your treadmill belt. If the tension is too loose, the rollers will not be able to move the belt without a jerkiness that can be dangerous to you. If you notice slippage, check your manual to see if it’s appropriate for a do-it-yourself fix. If not, be safe and call a professional for assistance.
As with all treadmill safety and maintenance measures, please consult your treadmill owner’s manual for particulars.
How can you check treadmill belt quality when buying online?
This is clearly a difficulty when buying a treadmill online. You can’t touch or listen to the treadmill. Nor can you give it a test-drive. One option is to go to a local treadmill retailer and try various brands and models to get an idea about the treadmill quality.
Alternatively, you can contact a treadmill retailer online and ask more questions about the quality of the treadmill belt and other components.
Treadmill Belt Warranty
Most treadbelts fall under the “Parts” warranty which isn’t too long. Click here to read about treadmill warranties.
Related posts:
