The French tend to ask themselves the same question about any object: is it really practical for everyday use? According to the technical specifications, everything is perfect. But living with an appliance in a Parisian apartment is another story. It is from this perspective that we examine the WalkingPad G5i, a folding mat that promises to replace three pieces of equipment on its own: a walking mat, a jogging machine and a real treadmill.
From walking to running on a single track
The G5i covers a speed range of 1 to 16 km/h, from a gentle office stroll to a proper run. In the US, it boasts a top speed of 10 mph coupled with an adjustable incline of 18%. It's precisely this incline that makes the difference. Most folding treadmills stay flat; the G5i, however, allows you to climb. According to WalkingPad, an 18% incline burns up to twice as many calories as walking on a flat surface while also engaging your glutes and hamstrings. This accurately describes the benefits of walking uphill. This versatility makes all the difference for a household: one person walks while taking calls in the morning, another attends classes in the evening, and a third follows up with a proper run on the weekend. Furthermore, its reinforced frame supports users weighing up to 136 kg, proving it's not just for lightweight walkers.
Speed is adjusted via the SpeedDial, which features an integrated screen. This physical control is an option that French testers generally appreciate compared to all-touchscreen app interfaces, allowing them to change their pace without having to fumble with their phone mid-stride.
Folding handles: the detail that makes all the difference
Most treadmills lack handles, which can create a feeling of insecurity as soon as you exceed a fast pace. The G5i incorporates side bars right out of the box, and that's precisely where its "three-in-one" promise lies.
These handles serve two purposes. When walking on a steep incline, they provide support and a stable point of reference. Once the effort is over, they fold down to avoid adding bulk. The key lies in how quickly they fold and how securely they lock to prevent vibration during use. This is precisely the aspect on which a regular user will base their judgment.
Eight layers of cushioning and a stable six-foot base
At high speeds, comfort depends entirely on the platform. WalkingPad's marketing focuses on the SoftStep Incline™ cushioning, designed to combine firm support and shock absorption to protect the joints.
Our specifications emphasize the presence of an eight-layer cushioning plate. In practical terms, the foot must feel a surface that absorbs impact with each stride without giving the impression of walking on foam. This balance is delicate: too much flexibility compromises stability, while a lack of elasticity puts undue stress on the knees.
The six-legged frame addresses another problem: an inclined treadmill naturally tends to move. Distributing the weight across six points of contact keeps the chassis firmly in place when running uphill and reduces vibrations on hardwood or tile floors. This is crucial for neighbors, as the machine is designed for shared living spaces thanks to its quiet operation. In apartments with thin flooring, structural noise is the number one reason people abandon a treadmill.
As for the platform, its 1300 × 500 mm surface is generous enough to allow a natural stride, which is far from systematic on folding machines.
Storage: does it really become invisible?
This is where theory meets reality. The G5i offers two storage modes: it can slide flat under a piece of furniture or stand vertically against a wall, and it is specially designed to fit under a bed.
Installation is designed to be incredibly simple. A foot brake allows you to unlock it with a single movement, without tools or assembly, and the mat arrives pre-assembled. In practice, however, you'll need to consider its weight and size. With its pronounced incline mechanism and reinforced frame, it's not exactly lightweight; moving it from room to room requires a bit of effort. It's best to check the clearance under your bed or sofa before ordering. US data indicates folded dimensions of approximately 38,7 × 29,3 × 7,6 inches for a given configuration (figures vary by region), so be sure to take your measurements based on the exact model you're ordering.
Verdict
The G5i's greatest strength lies in its freedom from the usual compromises: it offers incline training, a true running surface, and a practical storage solution for everyday use. It even won a design award (CSS Award for Innovative Product Design), recognizing its engineering achievement beyond its everyday functionality.
Its price remains the major obstacle. Listed in the United States at $1,699 (down from $1,899), it's positioned well above simple treadmills. The investment is only justified for a household that actually intends to use its three modes. If you're only looking to walk, a flat, less expensive model will suffice.
For runners short on space who want incline without sacrificing an entire room, the G5i stands out as one of the most compelling solutions on the market. The real test, however, remains one that no spec sheet can definitively answer: whether folding it will still be a simple matter after the hundredth use.
