Pro Form XP 542s Treadmill – A Good Value at Sears
The Pro Form xp 542s treadmill, like its companion, the xp 542e, is part of the xp series made exclusively for Sears.
There are two other models in the series, the xp800vf and the 590s, a larger model that might be a better option for sports trainers.
All of the Proform models are in the economy class and retail for $1000, give or take a couple hundred, and the Pro Form xp 542s treadmills are no exception at under $800.
Icon Health and Fitness produces the Proform brand along with Weslo, Nordic Track, Image, Gold’s Gym and Healthrider.
Often criticized in treadmill reviews for using less reliable foreign parts, they’re also praised for offering full-featured fitness equipment at a good price.
Under the Pro-form brand, they have produced good value treadmills, commonly rated as the best buys in a lower price range.
Pick up the pace. . . and the treadmill
The Proform xp 542s and 542e are almost identical. Both use a 2.75HP motor to drive speeds up to 10 MPH and have 18×55″ running surfaces damped by Proform’s adjustable Pro Shox(TM) system.
The platform has motorized tilts.
Speed, distance, calories and time are displayed, and workouts include preset and optional iFit® interactive workouts designed by professional trainers.
Both models feature the Space Saver(TM) design found on nearly all Proform models, allowing for easier storage between uses, and for a more convenient session, a bottle holder and cooling fan are standard.
Icon guarantees are something to keep in mind. Engines are covered for 10 years, but everything else is covered for just 90 days, well below the industry standard.
Sears ‘Protection Agreements’, extended warranties, indeed, could be a good accessory for the xp 542.
Sears also offers online purchase of its treadmill models, but to eliminate the two to three week delivery time, you can pick up your purchase at your local Sears store, depending on model and local availability.
