Product Reviews
Stott Pilates Reformers from Merrithew
For more than three decades, Ontario-based Merrithew has been innovating and advancing inside the burgeoning Pilates industry. They’ve trained and certified an impressively long list of instructors in their patented Stott Pilates methodology, which the company’s co-founder, Moira Stott, invented and perfected.
Over the years, they’ve added even more depth and texture to their Pilates educational programs. In addition to offering workshops and coursework in Stott Pilates, they also provide specialized instruction in several other trademarked Pilates systems, including Zen-Ga, Total Barre, CORE, Halo Training, and Fascial Movement.
Merrithew has also channeled their spirit of innovation into equipment design and manufacture. Fitness studios, trainers and home enthusiasts who purchase Merrithew reformers will enjoy access to some of the best-reviewed Pilates equipment available in North America.
What Makes Stott Pilates Reformers Unique?
Merrithew has been a pioneer in Pilates science. Their fitness professionals and skilled engineers apply time-tested scientific principles and the latest research findings to design superior-quality exercise equipment, suitable for near universal use.
STOTT PILATES Reformers have a well-earned reputation for excellence. They can be found in professional sports teams’ training facilities, fitness clubs, hotels, spas and other exercise facilities in Canada and the United States.
The distinctive features of STOTT PILATE Reformers include its:
- Patented retractable rope system. This system allows for precise and exact rope adjustments on the fly, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
- High–precision spring package. Merrithew technology provides maximum extension, unlimited fluidity of movement and a full range of precisely calibrated resistance levels.
- High-traction Reformer feet. Made from silicon rubber and PVC, they keep Merrithew reformers firmly grounded on all types of flooring.
- Wooden standing platform. Study construction and a nonskid surface assure stability and safety for all users.
- Detachable padded shoulder rests. These easy-to-remove shoulder rests feature extra padding for supreme comfort.
- High-comfort footbar. This expertly-designed footbar has four settings and thick foam covering that reduces foot and hand compression, guaranteeing comfort during all exercise routines.
- Neoprene spring sleeves. Users enjoy a smooth, noise-free spring extension when exercising on a STOTT PILATES reformer.
- Quick-set pulley posts. Multiple settings are available for easy and exact adjustments of pulley heights and angles.
- Easy roll wheels. These customized wheels provide smooth and fast repositioning, with durable performance and a long lifespan.
- Customer choice of upholstery colors. Merrithew reformers come in 10 standard colors, but offer an additional 75 customized shades to satisfy the preferences of even the most finicky customer.
As this list reveals, Merrithew designers pay close attention to the details. Their goal is to produce refined and functional reformers that offer the ultimate in comfort, safety, versatility and efficiency, for fitness professionals and home users alike.
The Merrithew Family Story
Moira Stott was a professional ballet dancer in the 1980s, until she was forced to retire because of injuries. Seeking ways to stay fit and active, she began to practice Pilates. She eventually developed her own unique style of Pilates, which emphasized the importance of maintaining a neutral spine (or good posture) during exercise performance.
From Moira’s innovative work, the Stott Pilates system was born. Moira Stott Merrithew and her husband, Lindsay Merrithew, opened their own Pilates studio in Toronto in 1988, believing (correctly, as it turned out) that their methodology could revolutionize Pilates practice.
Conceived as a vertically integrated enterprise, Merrithew branched out into equipment manufacturing in 1996. The next year, they opened their own education and training division, to train and certify instructors in Stott Pilates techniques.
Between 2000 and 2004, Merrithew was recognized as one of Canada’s fastest-growing companies by PROFIT magazine. Their business—and influence in the Pilates industry—has continued to expand, and Merrithew today is one of the most successful and widely acclaimed Pilates equipment manufacturers in North America.
Merrithew Pilates Reformers for Home, Fitness Clubs and Rehab Centers
Merrithew Pilates reformers are coveted by exercise enthusiasts and certified trainers alike for their sleek, streamlined design, fine craftsmanship and sturdy durability.
The company manufactures and sells reformers in three categories: At Home, Professional and Rehab. In total, Merrithew’s product line features eight different reformers, which are available individually or in accessory-laden bundles.
1. At Home SPX
Celebrated globally, this piece of equipment stands as a testament to superior craftsmanship and unparalleled quality. Every inch of this reformer speaks of the finest manufacturing materials, ensuring it not only looks sleek and elegant but also promises longevity.
But it’s not just about looks. The At Home SPX is the embodiment of functionality. Its enhanced spring package ensures a tailored workout experience, while the six carriage-stopping positions make it adaptable to various heights, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone. The three headrest positions further enhance user comfort, and the adjustable four-position footbar ensures that your feet have the perfect grip and position for every exercise.
Whether you’re a seasoned Pilates enthusiast or just beginning your journey, the At Home SPX Reformer is your perfect companion, promising safety, effectiveness, and a touch of luxury. A Cardio-Tramp Rebounder can be added to this reformer.
Advantages:
- Superior craftsmanship ensures longevity.
- Sleek design enhances home aesthetics.
- Tailored workouts with enhanced spring package.
- Adaptable to various user heights.
- Three adjustable headrest positions.
- Four-position footbar for perfect grip.
You can check this Merrithew pilates reformer here.
See our full review of the At Home SPX Pilates Reformer.
2. At Home Pro
For home studio use, the At Home Pro is a winner. Retailing at $4,249, this reformer is constructed with professional-grade features, including Merrithew’s high-precision spring package that assures maximum extension and unmatched fluidity of movement. Its patented retractable rope system allows for precise and instantaneous rope adjustments while in action. The At Home Pro is built to accommodate an added vertical frame, and when combined with a mat converter the machine can be transformed into a prolific and versatile workout station. At 16 inches in height, the At Home Pro is easy to mount and dismount for anyone with mobility issues.
3. SPX Max
Discover the SPX Max, a globally recognized Pilates Reformer that graces the floors of Pilates studios, fitness centers, luxury hotels, and private residences worldwide. Renowned for its exceptional quality, our reformer is meticulously crafted using the industry’s finest materials, ensuring it stands the test of time. Beyond its robust construction, the SPX Max boasts a sleek and elegant design that seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetics.
Prioritizing user safety and effectiveness, this state-of-the-art equipment comes equipped with a premium spring package, soft reformer loops for a comfortable grip, and a versatile carriage system that offers six stopping positions to cater to various user heights. Additionally, its adjustable headrest and footbar can be set in three and four positions respectively, ensuring a tailored Pilates experience for every individual. Elevate your Pilates practice with the SPX Max, where durability meets design excellence.
Advantages:
- Globally recognized for exceptional quality.
- Crafted with industry’s finest materials.
- Sleek, functional, and aesthetically pleasing design.
- Premium spring package for enhanced performance.
- Adjustable for tailored Pilates experience.
- Prioritizes user safety and effectiveness.
Check Prices for the SPX Max on eBay.
4. SPX Max Plus
Crafted with the meticulous attention to detail that Stott is renowned for, this apparatus boasts enhanced springs designed for enduring high-intensity sessions. Its robust vinyl upholstery promises longevity, while the sleek aluminum rails paired with neoprene spring covers guarantee a smooth and silent experience.
The SPX Max Plus stands out with its Vertical Frame feature, which seamlessly transforms it into a Cadillac/Trapeze Table. This addition, combined with the innovative retractable rope system and traveling pulleys, provides a broader range of motion and resistance angles. This versatility ensures that users are challenged across various dimensions, allowing for tailored programming to meet individual requirements.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. The Reformer Tall box, with its additional 4-inch height, ensures ample floor clearance, enabling users to perform the complete Pilates Reformer repertoire with ease.
Included with the Vertical Tower is a comprehensive package that features a full spring, strap, hook, and pulley system. This includes 2 push-thru springs, a maple roll-down bar, foam grip handles, padded long spine straps, extension straps, traveling spring hooks, pulleys, and a safety chain. The Mat Converter facilitates both Mat Work and Cadillac exercises on a comfortable elevated surface.
Additionally, the package comes with a Tall Reformer Box with foot strap, Padded Platform Extender, Maple Roll-Up Pole, and a High Precision Springs Package. The patented retractable rope system simplifies the adjustment of rope lengths, and the carriage stopper ensures safety. For added convenience, easy-roll wheels are present on both ends, and an online owner’s manual provides guidance.
Advantages:
- Enhanced springs for high-intensity, long-lasting use.
- Sleek design ensures quiet, smooth operation.
- Vertical Frame offers Cadillac/Trapeze transformation.
- Broad range of motion with innovative pulleys.
- Tall Reformer Box for expanded repertoire.
- Convenient patented retractable rope system.
You can check this Merrithew pilates reformer here.
5. V2 Max
The V2 Max is one of Merrithew’s premier reformers. It’s built for heavy-duty use in fitness facilities, boutique studios, home sports training venues and other active and well-trafficked Pilates environments. With its 16-inch (40.6 cm) height and 24-inch (61 cm) width, the V2 Max offers a safe, convenient, quality Pilates experience for users of all sizes and mobility levels, including active seniors and individuals in rehab. Tipping the cost scale at a relatively modest $4,299, the V2 Max provides a professional-style workout for all users, with quick and easy transitions between exercises.
6. V2 Max Plus
Discover the epitome of world-class Pilates experience with the V2 Max Plus Reformer. Globally recognized in Pilates studios, fitness hubs, luxury hotels, and private residences, this professional-grade equipment stands as a testament to enduring quality and craftsmanship. Meticulously designed with the finest manufacturing materials, our reformer not only boasts an elegant and sleek appearance but also ensures unparalleled safety and effectiveness.
Dive into a transformative workout experience with its state-of-the-art spring package, gentle reformer loops, and a versatile design that includes six carriage-stopping positions catering to varied heights. Additionally, the V2 Max Plus offers three headrest positions and four footbar settings, ensuring a tailored and comfortable session for every user. Elevate your Pilates journey with a blend of tradition, innovation, and excellence.
Advantages:
- Globally recognized for top-tier quality and craftsmanship.
- Sleek, elegant, and durable design.
- Ensures unparalleled safety and effectiveness.
- Versatile settings for personalized workouts.
- Ideal for diverse environments: studios to homes.
- State-of-the-art spring package included.
You can check this Merrithew pilates reformer here.
7. Rehab V2 Max
For physical therapists and the clinics that employ them, the Rehab V2 Max is an affordable option ($4,799 retail). This machine delivers outstanding results for users in rehabilitation, and it is also a suitable and effective choice for seniors and others with limited mobility. Raised to a user-friendly 22.5-inch (57.2 cm) platform height, this Stott Pilates reformer features a high-precision spring package that facilitates a wide range of resistance levels and angles. This makes it compatible with all types of Pilates routines for clients in various stages of recovery.
8. Rehab V2 Max Plus
Experience the pinnacle of performance and durability with the Rehab V2 Max Plus. Designed for the demands of high-intensity clinical and studio sessions, this reformer boasts robust vinyl upholstery paired with dense EVA foam. This combination ensures not only longevity but also offers unparalleled comfort and precise proprioceptive feedback.
Never compromise on stability. The high-traction feet of the Rehab V2 Max Plus are crafted from resilient silicon rubber and PVC, ensuring an unwavering grip on any floor surface. Whether you’re engaged in an energetic jumpboard session or a cardio-tramp rebounder workout, this reformer remains steadfast.
Adjustability is at the heart of the Rehab V2 Max Plus. Our patented retractable rope system, complete with recoiling rope reels, makes modifications a breeze. The extended ropes enhance the range of motion, infusing fluidity into your exercises and expanding your programming options.
The carriage of the Rehab V2 Max Plus is a marvel in motion. It effortlessly glides over polished C-Channel aluminum rails, utilizing a unique patented rolling mechanism. This ensures a ride that’s not only smooth but entirely free from friction.
Advantages:
- Durable vinyl and EVA foam for comfort and longevity.
- High-traction feet ensure superior grip.
- Patented rope system for easy adjustments.
- Smooth, friction-free glide on aluminum rails.
- Enhanced springs support vigorous workouts.
- Quick and safe accessory securement.
You can check this Merrithew pilates reformer here.
9. Merrithew Pilates Reformer Bundles
All Stott Pilates reformers can be purchased in bundles. In addition to the reformer of their choice, customers can also purchase additional items like the Merrithew reformer box with foot straps, a padded platform extender, a maple roll-up pole, the four-inch (10 cm) Merrithew reformer tall box or the company’s unique high-precision 6-setting gearbar.
A Merrithew bundle generally costs between $200 and $300 more than an individual machine. But bundles include valuable supplementary items that would cost between $500 and $900 if purchased separately.