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9 Best Indoor Cycling Shoes of 2023, According to Fitness Experts
Take your ride to the next level with top picks from Nike, Peloton, Shimano and more.
We updated this article in August 2022 to add more information about each product, based on testing by the Good Housekeeping Institute. Nike is now our top-rated pick, and we've included more information on how to select the best indoor cycling shoes.
Changing out of your sneakers and into a good pair of indoor cycling shoes may feel like a hassle, but it can completely transform your ride. Not only does wearing indoor cycling shoes provide a more efficient and comfortable ride, but it also adds safety to your cycling experience.
Indoor cycling shoes differ from regular workout sneakers in that they are usually made of light and breathable material and have a more tailored fit to the shape of your foot. The biggest difference is that they feature a stiff sole to allow the power of your legs to go straight into each and every pedal stroke and create a more efficient movement. Cycling shoes also lock into the pedal, ensuring that your legs are in proper alignment the entire ride. If you're cycling two or more times a week, cycling shoes can be a great way to level up your workout.
You'll notice a cleat on the bottom of indoor cycling shoes, which is a little clip under the shoe that attaches to the pedal. The type of pedal system your bike has determines which type of cleats you'll need for your cycling shoes. The two popular cleat systems are the SPD, with two holes, or the Delta, which has three holes. Both are great options and offer advantages, but regardless, you want to get the proper cleats for whichever type of bike you ride regularly. Boutique fitness brands like SoulCycle tend to have double-sided pedals that work with both SPD or Delta, but Peloton bikes require Delta only unless you change out the pedals themselves.
Fitness experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Wellness Lab evaluated indoor cycling shoes to see which ones were worth the money — focusing on function, durability and aesthetics. With the help of testers and reviewers, we've rounded up our top picks for the best cycling shoes to elevate your next indoor cycling session.
Our top picks:
You can learn more about how we evaluate indoor cycling shoes, and tips for selecting the best ones for you and your bike, at the end of this guide. Looking for a new indoor cycling bike to add to your home gym? Check out our best exercise bike picks, including affordable options and smart bike choices.
Nike SuperRep Cycle
Pros
- Available in four different colors
- Velcro straps
Cons
- Runs small; be sure to size up
- Cleats sold separately
We love the sleek aesthetic design on this cycling shoe from Nike that functions well, too. It features adjustable velcro straps up top to keep the shoe in place and also has rubber-tipped studs built into the bottom plate to give you traction when you're walking to and from your bike. Our testers found the shoe relatively lightweight and breathable, but our experts note that it tends to run small, so be sure to size up.
Compatible with two-hole or three-hole cleat systems.
TIEM Slipstream Indoor Cycling Shoe
TIEM Slipstream Indoor Cycling Shoe
Pros
- Stylish and comfortable
- Comes in a variety of colors
Cons
- Cleats sold separately
Testers were very satisfied with the Tiem cycling shoes that resemble a more traditional sneaker rather than your average cycling shoe. Instead of wobbling around to and from your bike, the clips are hidden in the sole of this shoe, making it easy to walk around in. Testers gave this shoe top scores in all categories ranging from function and durability to aesthetics and innovation. They have a softer top compared to other cycling shoes but testers found them quite comfortable.
Compatible with two-hole cleat system.
Venzo Venzo Women's Road Cycling Riding Shoes
Venzo Venzo Women's Road Cycling Riding Shoes
Pros
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Cleats included
Cons
- Only available in black and white
This Amazon favorite has an overall 4.6/5 star score and over 4,100 global ratings. Reviewers note that it's a great alternative to Peloton shoes at a slightly better pricepoint. Customers say the shoe is lightweight, well-made and comfortable, and they like the velcro lace for ease of use in putting the shoes on and taking them off.
Compatible with three-hole cleat system.
Santic Spin Shoes with Buckle
Pros
- Available in three camo colors
- Precision buckle and velcro top
- Under $100
Cons
- Cleats sold separately
Most cycling shoes will cost you upwards of $100, but this affordable pick from Santic functions well, according to Amazon reviewers. We like the camo design, velcro top and precision buckle that adds security to keep the shoe in place. Reviewers find them breathable and stylish as well.
Compatible with three-hole cleat system.
Tommaso Spin Class Ready Cycling Shoe
Tommaso Spin Class Ready Cycling Shoe
Pros
- Velcro upper
- Comes in SPD or Delta
Cons
- Mixed reviews on Peloton compatability
This top-seller on Amazon has an overall 4.5/5 star score with over 3,600 ratings. Reviewers like the traditional cycling shoe design of this option with a velcro top and sturdy foundation. It comes with either SPD or Delta cleats, so make sure you purchase the correct version that is compatible with your bike. Reviewers with wide feet also say this cycling shoe is a great option.
Available with two-hole or three-hole cleat systems.
SHIMANO SH-IC300 Women's Confidence Inspiring Indoor Cycling Shoe
SHIMANO SH-IC300 Women's Confidence Inspiring Indoor Cycling Shoe
Pros
- Comfortable sneaker-like design
- BOA dial
Cons
- Runs large; size down
This breathable and comfortable choice fits more like a regular sneaker and is also a great option for those with wide feet. Our fitness pros point out that these shoes have a BOA dial, which allows you to easily open, tighten and adjust the shoe fit with a quick turn. Although the shoes are only SPD compatible, the clip is hidden so you can walk around with ease after your cycling class. Just be sure to size down as reviewers say the shoes run large.
Compatible with two-hole cleat system.
Adidas The Indoor Cycling Shoe
Pros
- Well ventilated design
- Easy strap closure
Cons
- Cleats sold separately
This solid indoor cycling shoe from Adidas is actually made with 50% recycled content and has a breathable upper that our experts found kept feet well ventilated and cool during their rides. The lightweight shoe is constructed well, and the strap closure was easy to take on and off. Plus, the midsole plate is reinforced with fiberglass. We especially love the stylish design and unique colors like neon pink, mint green and more.
Compatible with three-hole cleat system.
Peloton Altos Cycling Shoes
Peloton Altos Cycling Shoes
Pros
- Single velcro strap for easy transition
- Sturdy foundation
Cons
- Only available in one color
The traditional Peloton cycling shoes are still available, but this new and improved version impressed our fitness pros with its single velcro strap that makes the shoe much easier to put on and take off (which came especially in handy during bike bootcamp workouts). They are best for those with standard or narrow feet, like the original Peloton cycling shoe. They have a notably breathable jacquard mesh material and a comfortable sock-like fit but are still supportive.
Compatible with three-hole cleat system.
SoulCycle x Pearl Izumi Legend 2.0 Cycling Shoes
SoulCycle x Pearl Izumi Legend 2.0 Cycling Shoes
Pros
- BOA laces
- Breathable upper
Cons
- Only available in one color
SoulCycle makes three different cycling shoes designed specifically for their bikes in collaboration with Pearl Izumi. The Black Legend Cycling Shoe has a sleek design and one thick strap closure, and our expert favorite, the Legend 2.0, features BOA laces, which are essentially wires connected to a turning knob for ease of use in getting the shoes on and off. The highest end Silver Legend Cycling Shoes come in at an even higher price point and feature a sleek silver design, antimicrobial upper mesh and single thick strap closure for easy transitions.
Compatible with three-hole cleat system.
Do I need indoor cycling shoes?
Many traditional indoor cycling bikes have adjustable toe cages and straps, so you can easily slip in with any type of workout sneaker. While there is nothing wrong with cycling in regular sneakers, indoor cycling shoes can be extremely helpful and beneficial if you are cycling two or more times a week. They provide a safer, more efficient and effective workout since clipping in essentially lets you become one with the bike. Traditional workout shoes tend to have a soft flexible sole, whereas indoor cycling shoes have a very firm sole that provides stability during your ride.
How we selected the best indoor cycling shoes
We evaluated several cycling shoes in-house with our fitness pros, and also recruited real-life testers and indoor cycling enthusiasts to test out the shoes in their own homes and in fitness studios across the nation. Criteria for evaluation focused on function, durability, comfort, aesthetics and price point. Our top picks offer a variety of different cleat compatibilities, as well as options for those with wide feet and choices that are breathable and lightweight.
How to choose the best indoor cycling shoes for you
When selecting the best indoor cycling shoe for you, you'll want to take into account a few things:
- Clip system: The most important consideration is the type of bike you're normally clipping into. Does your bike warrant a two- or three-hole cleat system? If you're not sure, ask a fitness instructor at your gym or studio, or contact the bike manufacturer to inquire.
- Fit: Look for a breathable shoe with a firm sole to help maximize your ride. Indoor cycling shoes tend to have a more snug fit, but they should still be comfortable. They should feel fitted on the sides but still have some wiggle room in the toebox, about half an inch, as your foot will naturally shift a bit during your ride.
- Straps: Some cycling shoes have velcro straps, some feature a BOA dial which looks like a circular knob and others have actual laces like a regular sneaker. Velcro straps and BOA dials tend to be more convenient and quicker options to get in and out of, which is why most of our picks focus on those features.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Stefani Sassos has been working in the fitness industry for the past 10 years, specializing in indoor cycling and strength training. She began her indoor cycling career in college where she was a Penn State Fitness Instructor, and continued on to teach indoor cycling at major gyms and studios including Equinox Fitness Clubs. As a NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, Stefani uses her expertise and exercise science knowledge to create informed fitness content for the Good Housekeeping Institute.
Stefani (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, where she handles all nutrition-related content, testing and evaluation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from NYU. She is also Good Housekeeping’s on-staff fitness and exercise expert. Stefani is dedicated to providing readers with evidence-based content to encourage informed food choices and healthy living. She is an avid CrossFitter and a passionate home cook who loves spending time with her big fit Greek family.
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