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Spin classes and interactive stationary bikes have made indoor cycling a common and well loved activity, but even avid outdoor cyclists may find themselves needing some different gear to perform at their peak when indoors. While cycling shorts, workout socks, and, of course, a stationary bike, are important, the best indoor cycling shoes are most essential for support and comfort during an intense cardio session.
Unlike cushioned running shoes or road cycling shoes, indoor or Peloton cycling shoes are often lighter and more breathable, making them ideal for warm and humid conditions. They also have a different type of cleat compatibility than most outdoor shoes — though some will work for both indoors and out. There are two types of cleats SPD (two hole) and Delta (3 hole). Most spin bikes are SPD-compatible, but some will be Delta (like Peloton). Some stationary bikes are compatible with both clips too, like Soulcycle’s equipment, for instance. Katie Pierson, Certified Personal Trainer and Cycling Instructor notes that you will want to ensure that you have the correct cleat for both your bike and your shoes before purchasing. Since these all have to be bought separately, you will want to double check to avoid more hassle.
While you can certainly spin without clipping in, wearing a typical workout shoe won’t allow you to perform at your best. “Cycling shoes give you a much more complete pedal stroke when cycling, because being ‘clipped-in’ to the pedal means that your leg is supplying 360-degree power, instead of just pushing on the downstroke,” says Von Collins, one of the founders of completetri.com. “Even if you aren’t trying to set land speed records, a cycling shoe will give you a better leg workout and reduce the chance of injuries because of a smoother, more stable pedal stroke.”
If you do prefer a more sneaker-like fit, there are options out there for you. “Indoor cycling sneakers include a hard, flat bottom, compared to outdoor cycling shoes with tread,” says Pierson. “The tread helps you to be more secure when stepping off of your bike and onto the road or trail, but they still allow you to clip in with recessed SPD cleats.”
To help us choose the best indoor cycling shoes, we reached out to Collins and Pierson for expert insight and recommendations. Below, view the best indoor cycling shoes of 2023.
Material: Mesh upper, nylon outsole
Closure: Hook and loop strap
Compatibility: Delta cleats
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “Bought multiple pairs of cycling shoes, dealing with plantar fasciitis and high arches—I even tried custom inserts to no avail. Had to limit my rides to 30min due to gradual pain. Now I’m able to do 45 no pain, and am very comfortable. I may get another pair for outdoor riding!
Price upon publish date of this article: $101.50
Material: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole
Closure: Velcro straps
Compatibility: SPD cleats
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I bought these shoes for outdoor riding and wanted a rubber sole with lots of grip. These fit that requirement perfectly! There is no connection with the SPD and the ground, which to me, is ideal as it allows you to quickly stop and exit the binding without having to worry about slipping and hitting pavement. I would definitely use these for spin class as well, and have found that they fit my wide foot well.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $79.99
Material: Synthetic leather upper, glass fiber nylon sole
Closure: Slip-on
Compatibility: SPD, SPD-SL, and 5-hole cleats
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I’m a lady with a Peloton and small but wide feet and rheumatoid disease. Numerous blogs said to try the Shimano indoor cycling shoe as pretty much the one affordable wide shoe compatible with Look Delta. I’m so glad I took the advice. These are comfortable and I’m happy to be in the saddle without aching feet.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $89.96
Material: Textile upper, bio-based midsole, synthetic outsole
Closure: Laces
Compatibility: SPD cleats
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What testers say: “So easy to walk and cycle in these. Attractive design that fits well and is comfortable. I’ve had so many compliments.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $135.00
Material: Mesh upper, rubber outsole
Closure: Velcro strap
Compatibility: SPD cleats
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “They’re probably the most comfortable cycling shoe out there, due to their casual design. Regular cycling shoes are stiff and almost a hard plastic material with no breathing room. The Velcro “shoe lace” is perfect. One stretch and the shoes are secured. The soles inside are not flat, so you still feel arch support in them. I purchased the SPD clips as well. Super easy to install. Again, my favorite cycling shoes out there; chic, stylish, and absolutely comfortable.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $135.00
Material: synthetic upper, carbon reinforced nylon plate
Closure: laces and velcro
Compatibility: Delta cleats
Nobull Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “ First off, these are phenomenal cycling shoes, especially for indoor spin classes. Durable, breathable, comfortable, supportive, and stylish. I’ve tried a few other top road cycling brands, and these No Bull are by far my favorites. I’m 6’1, 220, and average 200+ watts in a 45-minute class, so I am pretty hard on my shoes. I like the lacing system and have no complaints for indoor cycling, though I’d want a faster lacing system if I used these for outdoor/competing.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $89.50
Material: Mesh upper, plastic plate
Closure: Velcro straps
Compatibility: Delta cleats
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What Reviewers Say: “My wife absolutely loves these for the Peloton. She said they hug her feet perfectly and allow her to focus on her performance—she did have to buy half size up from her regular size though.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $95.97
Material: textile upper, eva, rubber, plastic, nylon
Closure: Velcro
Compatibility: SPD cleats
Pearl Izumi Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “My wife was looking for a new indoor show to use on our Echelon and the Vesta Studio was the perfect fit. Easy to put on, the velcro was a big win when you are trying to get ready quickly in the early hours of the morning. It locks in quickly with the speed cleats and centers the foot perfectly. Also, super easy to adjust the cleats as needed.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $93.75
Material: rubber, plastic, textile, nylon
Closure: velcro
Compatibility: SPD and Delta cleats
Pearl Izumi Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “I love my new Quest studio indoor cycling shoes. They are very comfortable, sturdy and breathable. They make my daily rides at home very enjoyable.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $82.50
Material: Textile upper, fiberglass reinforced nylon plate
Closure: Velcro
Compatibility: Delta cleats
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What testers say: “Sturdy, comfortable, easy to set up by myself with delta cleats The velcro strap lace system is easy, snug, and secure. I did buy 1/2 size up and fit well but a full size up would also fit well so it just depends on how snug you like your cycling shoes. (I prefer them more snug than more loose) This awesome color scheme (baby blue & pink) speaks for itself and really pops in person.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150.00
Material: Synthetic upper, nylon sole
Closure: Boa system
Compatibility: Delta cleats
What testers say: “Good value for the money, comfortable fit, the tongue does not rub uncomfortably on the anterior tibial tendon like some shoes I’ve purchased. Boa does a nice job and they felt good on the trainer.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $135.00
What to Consider When Shopping for Indoor Cycling Shoes
- Type of cleat: There are two types of cleats: SPD and Delta. SPD is most commonly used for indoor cycling and mountain biking as it is generally easier to clip in and out, and they fit in the recesses of the shoe so you won’t be clomping around. Delta cleats are bulkier and sturdier, which means that they also keep you locked in a bit tighter to the pedal. These are mostly used on the roads, but some brands like Peloton opted for these over SPDs.
- Foot Type: While overpronation doesn’t matter as much with cycling shoes as it does with running shoes, those with particularly flat feet may wish to opt for a more shoe-like model. These will not only give you more support, but it will fit an insole better than a typical cycling shoe. If you have wider feet, you will also want to make sure that the shoe can accommodate them. Look for softer materials like mesh and either laces or multiple velcro bands for maximum adjustment control.
- Fastening system: Cycling shoes will either have a velcro strap, laces, boa fastener, or some combination of the three. Velcro is one of the most common and affordable options — plus it is easy to adjust mid-ride without throwing you off. Laces are great for those that prefer a more sneaker-like fit, but be sure that they are not too long as you don’t want them getting stuck in the flywheel.
- Upper Material: When cycling indoors, your feet tend to get hot and stay hot. Since they don’t have a headwind to cool them down, you will want to opt for something light and breathable. Look for shoes that are mesh or have built-in ventilation. Some will even have cut outs to help keep you as cool and dry as possible.
- Sole Material: Sole material varies a lot between different types of cycling shoes, but most will have at least a full or partial nylon or carbon plate somewhere in there. This helps to improve energy return and give you a sturdy base to push off from. If you opt for a typical cycling shoe, this will usually be all the sole you get. If you choose a more sneaker-like model, you will have some additional padding and an outsole as well.
How We Chose the Best Indoor Cycling Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. Learn more about us here.
To choose the best indoor cycling shoes on the market, we researched the most popular models available. We chose options that fulfilled the needs of various preferences, budgets, styles, and foot types to come up with an option for every type of cyclist. We reached out to experts in the cycling and fitness field to help us determine what to look for and how to choose a proper cycling shoe. Finally, we used our own expertise in product testing and real customer reviews to determine the 10 best indoor cycling shoes of 2023.
Meet the Experts
Katie Pierson has been a certified fitness professional for almost twenty years and holds ten fitness certifications, including Spinning Elite and Personal Training. She shares her passion and knowledge for fitness and cycling regularly as a top contributor at GirlBikeLove, and is regularly quoted in top bicycling magazines.
Von Collins is a coach, writer, published author, and co-founder of triathlon gear review site complete-tri.com. He is an accomplished triathlete and cyclist, and the author of four fitness and training books: Smarter Running, Your First Triathlon Guide, Fit Foods, and 30 Rut-Busting Workouts. He has also been cited as a cycling expert by top fitness brands like Healthline, CNET and Forbes.
Meet the Author
Gabrielle Hondorp has worked as a fitness and wellness gear reviewer since 2019. She has written for publications like Runner’s World, Health, SELF, Women’s Running, Sports Illustrated and more. She was a collegiate track and cross country athlete and remains an avid outdoorswoman. She is also a frequent spin class attendee and has fallen off her road bike enough times to make her an indoor cycling advocate.
