The most important differences in belts are length, width, and ply.

Length - Treadmill users who will just be walking and those who have short legs don't need belts as long as the belts needed runners and taller people. When a belt is too short, the user's stride will feel cramped and this may cause the user to unintentionally hit their feet on the front of the treadmill. Slow joggers will do best with a belt at least 50” long. Faster runners and people over 6' 2" will do better with even longer belts. The longest belts available are about 63".

Width - Belts that are too narrow can cause the users' feet to hit the side of the treadmill. This can cause the user to have to concentrate too much on foot placement. Runners and heavy people need wider belts than walkers and thin people. Runners will want a belt at least 20" wide. The heaviest people should look for the widest belt they can afford.

Ply - Most home treadmills are made with a single ply (layer) belt. That is, it is one solid piece of rubber. Higher quality treadmills have belts made with two plys. 2 ply belts are quieter, offer a bit more cushioning, and have a bottom ply that is made of tougher material so the belt lasts longer. The highest quality treadmills, found in gyms, have several plys.

Most treadmills come with belts pre-lubricated at the factory, so that additional lubrication is unnecessary if the treadmill has been kept reasonably free of dust. However, after years of use, additional lubrication may help, as described in the user's manual.

For more information on choosing a treadmill, see

How to Choose a Treadmill

Treadmill Buying Tips

Big Guy – Big Treadmill

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