As fitness enthusiasts know, spinning is an excellent workout choice for building your endurance, burning calories, blasting away fat and toning your lower body. What you may not know, however, is how important it is to choose the correct shoe for indoor cycling. Running shoes or trainers are not designed for fast pedaling or for supporting the foot and ankle, so wearing these types of shoes during your class can lead to increased pressure and strain – not to mention increased chances of slipping off the pedals.
Spinning shoes are typically designed with a stiff sole, with less padding than other athletic shoes. The sole is also constructed with rubber to prevent slippage, and to keep your foot and ankle secure while pedaling. The most important aspect of a spinning shoe, however, is the type of cleats attached.
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Cleats are generally sold separately, because there are two different types which correspond to one of two primary pedaling systems: the Delta system and the SPD system. It’s best to check with your studio or gym to see which pedaling system is used in the classes before investing in your perfect pair (SoulCycle, for example, recommends using Look Delta clips, but their pedals are also SPD compatible).
So why should you purchase a shoe specifically for spinning? Investing in a pair of indoor cycling shoes will be a game changer for your favorite workout for a couple of reasons. First, they will allow you to transfer more energy from your legs to the bike, because it won’t be absorbed by cushioning in the shoe. In turn, this results in your muscles working harder, which means your lower body is getting a better workout.
Second, wearing cycling-specific shoes will help prevent injury and lessen muscle soreness post-workout. And while a pair of shoes can be a pricey purchase at first, considering most studios rent shoes for $3-5 a pop, getting your own pair will end up being a better investment in the long term.
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Cleats and shoes for spinning are typically sold separately, and while there are numerous brands and styles to chose from, these are a few trusted brands that we feel out-perform their competitors.
1. Zol Predator MTB Cycling Shoes
BEST OVERALL
These spinning shoes are a 2-in-1 deal. Unlike many options on the market, these spinning shoes come with cleats and pedals designed specifically for the shoe. The shoe is composed of carbon microfiber material and features two buckled Velcro straps for an adjustable fit to ensure optimum security and foot stability while pedaling. These shoes are also suitable for mountain biking. Additionally, these just might be the most lightweight cycling shoes we’ve seen. The non-stitched leather and mesh composition adds to the comfort level and adjustable fit, while the center tongue separation allows the ankle to move more freely.
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Buy: Zol Predator MTB Cycling Shoes $56.95
2. Gavin MTB Indoor Cycling Shoes
BEST VALUE
The affordable Gavin MTB Indoor Cycling Shoes sport a sleek design with triple carbon fiber hook and loop velcro straps for a secure fit around your feet. The sole has two-bolt cleat compatibility, meaning SPD, Crank Brothers and MTB pedals can all be attached. Plus, these spinning shoes sport a perforated insole that’s lightweight and quick drying, which is ideal for high intensity and sweaty workouts.
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Buy: Gavin MTB Indoor Cycling Shoes $59.95
3. Weideng Professional Road Bike Shoes
MOST FASHIONABLE
Available in either black or blue, the Weideng Professional Road Bike Shoes are a stylish way to take on your weekly spin class. The velcro buckles ensure a secure fit, while the synthetic microfiber leather and mesh upper is breathable to provide a comfortable ride for your feet. These synthetic shoes also sport a fiberglass-injected nylon sole, which gives your feet the support you need during class.
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4. Tommaso Pista Women’s Cycling Shoes
BEST VEGAN OPTION
You can’t really go wrong with this pair of cycling shoes from Tommaso. They’re a best-seller on Amazon, with a four star rating from tons of happy customers, and they come with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty that lets you return the shoes if they don’t fit perfectly. Construction-wise, these shoes are made from a comfy and flexible synthetic leather (great for riders who are vegan and prefer their shoes to be cruelty-free). They also have thoughtful mesh cut-outs that let your feet breathe without trapping sweat. The most unique part: the shoe’s fiberglass reinforced sole, which provides optimal stability and traction, allowing users to ride longer and faster using less energy.
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Buy: Tommaso Women's Cycling Shoes
5. Santic Cycling Shoes
MOST VERSATILE
With their anti-slip properties, effective ventilation and impressive reinforcement, the Santic Cycling Spin Shoes tick all the boxes. Add the three attractive color options of red, green and grey, and buying these shoes guarantees you look great and stay comfortable throughout class. For maximum security on your feet, the uppermost buckle includes an added clasp to prevent unwanted movement.
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Buy: Santic Cycling Shoes $69.99
6. Venzo SPD-Compatible Cycling Shoes
BEST COMPANY GUARANTEE
The Venzo SPD-Compatible Cycling Shoes are a versatile option that come with a pair of Venzo Multi-use Shimano SPD Compatible Pedals and a fantastic company guarantee, which gives a one-year warranty on shoes AND pedals. The well-reviewed shoes combine comfort and performance, providing the ideal platform for intense exercise. Plus, the tough and stiffened sole gives you the support you need without wasting energy as you cycle. Furthermore, the high-quality pedals feature one side which can be used with cleats and another which is ideal for use with regular training shoes.
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Buy: Venzo SPD-Compatible Cycling Shoes $79.99
7. Louis Garneau Men’s Flex Bike Shoes
MOST BREATHABLE
To maximize comfort, the Louis Garneau Multi Air Flex Bike Shoes are made from a flexible and breathable material and have a ventilated EVA insole. Plus, the shoes include three individual velcro buckles, which provide an adjustable and secure fit and allow you to perform at your highest level with confidence. These shoes are available in a range of attractive colors and feature deep treads to prevent the need to scrape your cleats while walking.
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Buy: Louis Garneau Men's Flex Bike Shoes $99.95
8. Giro Techne Women’s Cycling Shoes
MOST SUPPORTIVE
This black and white spinning shoe ranks as one of the best-selling spinning shoes on Amazon, and we can surely understand why. This shoe is equipped with a super breathable microfiber fabrication upper featuring anti-microbial properties to keep odors at bay, while the molded EVA footbed provides medium to full arch support. Giro is known for their supportive fit, and the stylish racer style is no exception. Looking for matching cleats? Try these for the ideal fit.
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Buy: Giro Techne Women's Cycling Shoes $99.85
9. Shimano SH-RT5 Men’s Cycling Shoes
MOST DURABLE
This sleek, all-black men’s cycling shoe by Shimano is designed with a three Velcro-strap fastening, which not only boosts your cycling performance, but also makes for added comfort while cycling or walking. The shank plates are constructed with durable, glass-reinforced fiber for maximum sole rigidity. Furthermore, the perforated vegan leather upper offers both style and function to your spinning look, ensuring a snug fit for added security and ankle protection during your workout. Try these cleats for a perfect match to this pair of shoes.
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