Let’s face it – shoes can make or break a workout.
This couldn’t be more true when it comes to indoor cycling. Rain or shine – indoor cycling is one of those activities you can do whatever the weather. But it’s more than just a good workout. Indoor cycling focuses on endurance and strength to keep your heart healthy and improve your overall health. And the right pair of shoes will provide you with proper clipping in for more stability on the bike.
Unfortunately, not all shoes are created equal. And with dozens of popular choices on the market today, choosing the right pair can be challenging.
To give you a head start, here are ten of the best women’s indoor cycling shoes:
Best Women’s Indoor Cycling Shoes:
1. Pearl Izumi Women’s X-Project 2.0 Cycling Shoes
The Pearl Izumi Women’s Cycling Shoes will take your workout to the next level by focusing on three main factors: efficiency, speed, and comfort. Its multi-functional design is a combination of 100% synthetic leather and nylon mesh for maximum comfort as well as proper ventilation.
Its standout feature is an EVA foam heel that helps absorb the impact of pedaling during long, intense spinning. It comes with a full-length tapered carbon fiber plate that gives you efficient leg power and helps you walk off the bike with ease.
The Pearl Izumi Women’s Cycling Shoes gives you the proper amount of traction with its rubber tips and lightweight design. It also features a bi-directional closure and boa lacing system for a more customized fit and easy adjustment.
Features:
- EVA compressed foam heel pads
- 100% imported synthetic leather
- Breathable nylon mesh lining
- Micro-adjustable boa lacing system
- Co-molded rubber tips
- Full length tapered carbon fiber plate
Pros:
- Multi-functional and lightweight
- Comfortable sole
- Easy adjustment
Cons:
- Sizing runs small
2. Shimano Women’s RP2 Cycling Shoes
The Shimano Women’s RP2 Cycling Shoes are the perfect beginner’s choice pair. The RP in its label stands for “Road Performance” – a sufficient description of the way this pair balances the requirements of efficiency and comfort for both indoor and outdoor use.
The highlight of its design is the fiber glass-reinforced nylon sole that is a lot more flexible than other brands on the market but still manages to remain lightweight. Another advantage of this design is its focus on proper ventilation – in addition to a metal mesh covered toe port, there are also vents running along the length of the mid-foot that align well with the padded insole.
The Shimano Women’s RP2 Cycling Shoes are extremely compatible with any pedal system. This pair features a padded sole that accepts both two and three bolt cleats. It features three asymmetrical straps that divide the crosswise pressure on your upper feet.
Features:
- Fiberglass reinforced nylon sole
- 100% synthetic leather upper and metal mesh toe cover
- Triple asymmetrical closing straps
- Multi-pedal compatibility system
- Combined 3-hole and 2-hole clipless design
- Integrated air ventilation system
Pros:
- Beginner friendly
- Stretch resistant
- Outdoor and indoor use
Cons:
- Straps are too short for larger-sized feet
- Narrow fit
3. Reebok Louis Garneau Women’s Actifly Indoor Cycling Shoes
Reebok and Louis Garneau have partnered together to deliver this performance pair of cycling shoes specially dedicated to the avid indoor cyclist. The Reebok Louis Garneau Women’s Actifly Indoor Cycling Shoes are designed for maximum ventilation and comfort when on the spin bike. This pair features a leather and mesh combination upper that helps minimize moisture in and around the feet.
You won’t have to worry about sweat and odor because this pair comes with built-in antibacterial and anti- odor treatments at the uppers to keep your feet fresh even during the most intense workouts. For an added plus, it comes with a honeycomb perforated insole that reduces odor build up over time.
The Reebok Louis Garneau Women’s Actifly Indoor Cycling Shoes feature a nylon-injected fiberglass outsole that provides the optimal amount of stiffness for more efficient pedaling. It includes a steel insert that is compatible with both two and three-bolt cleats.
Features:
- Synthetic PU leather and mesh upper
- Honeycomb perforated insole
- Injected nylon and fiberglass outsole
- Built-in antibacterial and anti-order treatments
- Hook and loop closure
- Steel fit inserts for 2-hole and 3-hole cleats
Pros:
- Low cut design
- Sweat resistant
- Prevents odor build up
Cons:
- Difficult to walk in
- Clips are not recessed when attached
4. Tommaso Pista Women’s Road Bike Cycling Spin Shoes
By combining comfort and performance, the Tommaso Pista Women’s Road Bike Cycling Spin Shoes provides quality spinning power in a lightweight package. While best used for indoor cycling, this versatile shoe also works great for outdoor use and even for walking on your way to spin class.
This pair is a great entry-level shoe because it is compatible with every type of pedal. It comes with a platform that attaches to both 2 bolt and 3 bolt cleats. Its modern design is made up of a durable synthetic leather upper that hugs your foot perfectly while keeping it properly ventilated through an integrated air ventilation system.
It comes with a fiberglass reinforced sole that provides optimal stiffness and increases leg power for better pedaling. For a more secure closure, it comes with low profile hook and lock Velcro straps that offer an ergonomic fit.
Features:
- Durable synthetic rubber upper
- Fiberglass reinforced nylon sole
- Mutli-pedal compatibility system
- Combined 3-hole and 2-hole clipless design
- Hook and lock Velcro straps
- Integrated air ventilation system
Pros:
- Well ventilated
- Easy closure
Cons:
- No arch support for ankles
- Screws for cleats may not be very durable
5. Gavin MTB Mountain Bike Mesh Indoor Fitness Women’s Cycling Shoes SPD
If you’re looking for quality performance shoes that still look stylish when worn, the Gavin MTB Mountain Bike Mesh Indoor Fitness Cycling Shoes are the perfect fit for you. Its trendy look features a carbon fiber design on the hook and loop closure straps and on the heel cup for the best fit. It comes with a notch in the tongue for better ankle movement. It also provides maximum ventilation through positioned mesh panels that allow cool air to flow through even if you spend the whole day spinning.
This pair is incredibly sweat resistant. It comes with perforated insoles that shed moisture and dry up quickly. And the best part? They’re removable and easy to wash.
Features:
- Padded collar and anti-slip lining
- Carbon fiber designed hook and loop straps
- Mesh panels for breathability
- 2-bolt cleat compatible: SPD, Crank Brothers, MTB pedals
- Fiber glass injected nylon sole
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Absorbent and quick drying
- Not slippery when worn
Cons:
- Straps are not durable
- Below average build quality
6. Venzo MX Bike Ladies Cycling Shoes
The best part about the Venzo MX Bike Ladies Cycling Shoes is that it comes in a low-cut design. This makes it fit well around the back of your feet while keeping your ankles free for better movement range while spinning. It features a breathable design that includes quick-drying mesh and synthetic upper that is highly breathable. It also comes with a removable sock liner.
The Venzo MX Bike Ladies Cycling Shoes are made of heavy-duty thermoplastic for ultimate stability. They are compatible with all types of cleats, including Look delta – one of the most popular and widely used bike systems. They also make an excellent alternative for Peloton bike pedals.
Features:
- Low cut design
- Highly breathable mesh and synthetic upper
- Textile lining with removable sock liner
- Fully compatible platform: Look Delta and Peloton bikes
- Heavy duty thermoplastic
- Adjustable 3-hole system
- 9 degree float
Pros:
- Extra durable
- Comfortable fit on ankles
Cons:
- Difficult to attach
- Not beginner friendly
7. New Balance Women’s 09v1 Cycling Shoes
The New Balance Women’s 09v1 Cycling Shoes may be a bit more expensive than the other shoes on this list, but they are definitely worth the price. This pair is a perfect combination of textile and imported synthetic materials. This means that they are extremely durable to help you save money in the long run – it’s built to last for at least up to 4 years.
This pair offers the best in versatility. It looks like a regular sneaker at first glance, but is actually specially made for both indoor and outdoor use. The EVA padded midsole keeps you on your toes because of its excellent transfer of energy. It also gives you extra shock absorption to reduce the impact from harder pedaling and minimize muscle fatigue.
The best part? It comes in a variety of attractive colors to choose from, like solar yellow and sea salt.
Features:
- Textile and synthetic material combination
- Synthetic insole
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- SPD cleat compatible
- Hidden inner shank
- Hook and loop straps
- Breathable, odor fighting mesh
Pros:
- Secure fit
- Comfortable and stylish
Cons:
- Narrow fit
- Small toe room
8. Zol Predator MTB Mountain Bike and Indoor Cycling Shoes
The Zol Predator MTB Mountain Bike and Indoor Cycling Shoes are one of the best choices on the market today for women. Its standout feature is its ergonomic design that is specially manufactured for bigger and wider feet. It’s made of mesh leather to keep your feet cool while you spin.
For added comfort, this pair combines double injection fiberglass nylon sole with a perforated insole to help prevent moisture and drain sweat. It also has the right amount of stiffness so you can pedal faster without affecting your overall flexibility. To ensure a more secure fit, it comes with three carbon fiber Velcro straps and a carbon fiber heel cup for better stability.
Features:
- Carbon fiber designed Velcro straps
- Carbon fiber heel cup
- 2 bolt cleat compatibility: SPD, Crank Brothers, MTB
- Tongue center separation design
- No stitching mesh leather
- Double injection fiberglass nylon sole
- Perforated insole
Pros:
- Sweat resistant
- Good arch support
- Solid construction
Cons:
- Not for outdoor use
- Outsole lacks grip
9. Tiem Slipstream Indoor Cycling Spin Shoes
What sets the Tiem Slipstream Indoor Cycling Spin Shoes apart from others on the market today is its specially manufactured slip-on construction. Its standout feature is a wide single strap closure system that is comfortable even for larger feet and allows you to quickly tighten and release with one swift motion.
Unlike other indoor cycling shoes that have carbon outsoles, the Tiem Slipstream Indoor Cycling Spin Shoes have outsoles that are made of nylon – perfect for beginners because it is extremely comfortable and gives you just the right amount of support to transfer power from your legs to the pedal.
For long, intense cycling sessions, this pair will help your feet breathe through an engineered mesh and athletic textile upper. They also come in a variety of different colors to fit your unique style.
Features:
- Slip-on, single-strap design
- Engineered mesh and athletic textile upper
- Recessed SPD cleat assembly
- Rubber outsole
- SPD compatible
Pros:
- Easy to wear
- Beginner friendly
- Recommended for wider feet
Cons:
- Not Delta compatible
- Lack of support at the bottom of the shoe
10. Frizik R5B Donna BOA Shoes
Want to look your best while spinning? The Frizik R5B Donna BOA Shoes comes in a sleek all-black design with a bright fuchsia trim that’s guaranteed that give you a stylish edge even during intense workouts. It’s made of quality materials enhanced by professional craftsmanship that is both attractive and performance- ready.
It features a unique BOA control that shapes each shoe individually to get you closer to achieving that perfect fit. The Frizik sculpted insole and heel support are added to ensure a stable connection to the pedals for more spinning power. For extra strength, this pair features a laser perforated Microtex upper that is both durable and lightweight.
Features:
- Laser perforated microtex upper
- Carbon reinforced outsole
- BOA control
- Sculpted insole and heel support system
Pros:
- Feminine design
- Durable and lightweight
- Correct sizing chart
Cons:
- Narrow toe box area
- Not for outdoor use
BUYER’S GUIDE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A PAIR OF INDOOR CYCLING SHOES
A good pair of indoor cycling shoes will take your workout to the next level. But before you buy your first pair, here a few questions you should ask yourself:
1. Why should you buy indoor cycling shoes?
You might be wondering why you should invest in indoor cycling shoes when you already own a good pair of sneakers.
The answer to this question boils down to three main factors:
1. Pedal-efficient design
Indoor cycling shoes have clips – these are metal pieces at the bottom of the sole that snaps them onto the pedals. They help transfer energy from your leg to the bike for a more efficient downward pedal stroke. They come in two types:
SPD or two hole system – this is features a two bolt system that fasten the cleat to the shoe and is used by most gyms. SPD clips are lighter and easier to walk around with, but they can be a bit tricky to attach for beginners. These are the perfect choice if you plan to walk on your way to the gym.
Delta or three hole system – this is slightly more sufficient in terms of energy transfer because they have a large flat pedal surface and a large protruding cleat design. They are a bit more bulky compared to the SPD type, so if you plan on walking to the gym, make sure to bring an extra pair of shoes.
Pro tip: remember to always check with your gym or indoor cycling studio to make sure that your shoes are compatible with their pedals.
2. Complete muscle workout
When your feet are clipped in, you get a full leg workout because you get to work your hamstrings and glutes. These shoes also exercise the oppositional muscles like hamstrings and quads for better joint stability and range of motion.
3. Comfort and safety
With your feet firmly attached, you are reducing the risk of your feet slipping and causing major injury. These shoes also feature stiff soles that give you extra support to reduce the risk of leg cramps during intense workouts.
2. What type of indoor cycling shoes should you get?
You have two categories to choose from:
Road Cycling Shoes
This type is categorized by its rigid and smooth sole. These are stiffer than the other type and the cleat protrudes from the sole – making it efficient for clipping in, but not so much for walking long distances. Alternatively, you can invest in rubber sole covering if you plan to use it for walking.
Mountain Bike Shoes
This type has a rubberized sole and a recessed cleat. They look a lot like your ordinary workout shoes and are multi-functional in case you want to do some extra rounds on the treadmill or lift some weights. The downside is that they can be a lot heavier to wear.
3. Where should you buy indoor cycling shoes?
There are several good choices online. Amazon and Zappos in particular offer great options at surprisingly affordable prices. But if you’re buying your first pair, it’s always good to try several shoes on in person until you get the right fit.
You can find a large array of sizes and brands at larger mall chains, but its best to check your local bike shops first because they offer more personalized shoe fittings. Some will even install on the cleats without any extra charge.
4. How do you choose the right size?
Sizing can be a bit tricky when it comes to indoor cycling shoes. To start you off, here are a few easy tips to remember:
- Most indoor cycling shoes use European sizing, so always check the conversion size chart.
- Since indoor cycling shoes are a lot stiffer, get a pair that is a half size larger than your usual sneaker size to give your feet enough space to ride.
- The retaining system should adjust firmly around the arch of your feet, but make sure the sides of your feet aren’t squeezed into the shoe.
- To check if it’s the right fit, try using the wiggle-and-snug test: your toes should be able to wiggle around inside the shoe but should also snug around your heel so it doesn’t slide at the back while you walk.
5. How do you tell that the shoes are designed specifically for women?
This won’t be much of a problem since most women’s shoes are labeled as such on the box or shoe tag. In terms of appearance, they have narrower heels than men’s shoes. They are also shallower with less height between the sole and upper portion. And since women tend to have smaller feet than men, their shoes often come in smaller sizes – the largest is usually a size 40.