Not a standard treadmill. The X16 is an incline trainer that reaches 40%, turning walking into a high-calorie, low-impact workout that rivals running. Built for walkers who want serious results.
NordicTrack X16 Incline Trainer
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NordicTrack X16 Review: Is 40% Incline Worth the Price?
The X16 isn’t a treadmill in the traditional sense. It’s an incline trainer, and that distinction matters. While standard NordicTrack treadmills max out at 12-15% incline, the X16 goes to 40%. At that gradient, walking at just 3 mph becomes a genuinely intense cardiovascular workout that burns more calories per minute than flat running at 6 mph.
This is the appeal: maximum calorie burn with minimum joint impact. Walking on a steep incline eliminates the pounding that running inflicts on knees, ankles, and hips, making the X16 particularly attractive for older users, those recovering from injuries, or anyone who finds running uncomfortable but still wants serious fitness results.
The maths of incline walking
At 40% incline and 3 mph, research suggests you can burn 300-400 calories in 30 minutes. That’s comparable to running at 6-7 mph on a flat surface but with a fraction of the impact force. The -6% decline adds downhill training for quad and calf variation, and the 4.25 CHP motor (the same unit as the Commercial 1750) powers the incline mechanism smoothly even at steep gradients.
Who is this actually for?
The X16 is not for flat-out runners. If you primarily want to run at speed, the Commercial 2450 at £2,499 is cheaper and more capable as a running machine. The X16 is for walkers, hikers, and anyone who wants to replicate outdoor hill training at home. iFIT’s mountain hiking routes are where this machine excels, with the treadmill automatically adjusting to match real terrain filmed on trails worldwide.
iFIT hiking routes: the killer feature
NordicTrack’s incline trainers were designed specifically for iFIT’s outdoor hiking content. Trainers film routes through mountain trails worldwide, and the X16 automatically adjusts incline (up to 40%) and speed to match the real terrain in real time. Walking through the Swiss Alps at 3 mph while the machine cranks up to 35% incline creates an experience no standard treadmill can replicate.
The 16″ touchscreen displays these routes clearly enough to be engaging, though the X24‘s 24″ screen makes the virtual hiking experience noticeably more immersive. Since incline training involves slower speeds (typically 2-4 mph), you spend more time looking at the screen than during fast running, which means screen size matters more on this type of machine.
Build quality and footprint
The X16 is built like a tank. The incline mechanism adds weight and structural complexity compared to standard treadmills. The machine does not fold due to its specialist construction, so you need a permanent space for it. The footprint is roughly 200 × 100 cm, and you’ll need additional clearance behind the machine for the extreme incline angle.
Ceiling height is important. At 40% incline, you’re elevated significantly above the base. Ensure you have at least 250 cm of ceiling height for comfortable use at maximum gradient.
Noise at steep inclines
The 4.25 CHP motor handles steep incline adjustments smoothly and without excessive noise. The incline mechanism itself produces a low hum when adjusting, which is normal. At walking speeds on steep gradients, the overall noise level is lower than flat running on a standard treadmill since foot strikes at 3 mph generate far less impact than running at 8+ mph. This makes the X16 surprisingly apartment-friendly despite its size, though the weight and vibration of the machine itself may be a concern for upper floors.
Assembly
Assembly is a two-person job minimum, and professional installation is recommended given the weight and complexity of the incline mechanism. Allow 90-120 minutes for setup. Once positioned, the X16 is staying put.
What we like
- 40% incline turns walking into a serious workout
- Low-impact alternative to running with comparable calorie burn
- -6% decline for downhill training
- 4.25 CHP motor handles steep gradients smoothly
- 16″ HD touchscreen for immersive iFIT hiking routes
- 55 cm wide deck
- 0% finance via Klarna
What could be better
- £2,999 is more than the Commercial 2450 which is a better runner
- Does not fold (specialist construction)
- 12.5 mph top speed (same as models costing £1,164)
- Niche product that won’t suit traditional runners
- Large footprint with no folding option
Our verdict
The X16 is a specialist machine for a specific type of user. If you want to burn serious calories through walking, train for hiking, or need a low-impact alternative to running, the 40% incline delivers something no standard treadmill can match. If you primarily want to run, the Commercial 1750 or 2450 is a better and cheaper choice. Know which camp you’re in before buying.
Buy the NordicTrack X16
Buy from Fitness Options for free delivery, expert advice, and 0% finance via Klarna.
Pay over 24 months with KlarnaMore NordicTrack reviews: Every NordicTrack Treadmill Compared | X24 Review | Commercial 2450 Review | Commercial 1750 Review
