The Best Spin Shoes for At-Home and Studio Spin Workouts
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You might be able to get away with spinning in a normal pair of gym shoes—but the second you ride in a pair of specially designed spin shoes, you’ll wonder why you even bothered. Spin shoes are constructed to securely connect you to the bike, so you can max out the amount of power being transferred from your primary cycling muscles (think: glutes, quads and calves) to the pedals.
The popularity of at-home indoor cycling has skyrocketed since 2020; the global home exercise bike market size is projected to grow by 8.7 percent by 2027, for a value of $2,335.2 million. That’s a lot of Pelotons (and other more budget-friendly bikes, too). To get the most out of your investment, though, you need the right gear—from indoor cycling apps full of virtual classes to comfortable workout clothes. And whether you’re at-home or heading into a studio, a good pair of cycling shoes can make all the difference between a meh workout and a great one.
Since spin shoes aren’t synonymous with regular athletic shoes, we’ve pulled together the best spin shoes for at-home and studio workouts, along with a comprehensive guide on the benefits of spins, what features—like cleat compatibility and lace-up systems—are most important and how to find the best pair for you.
Our Picks for the Best Spin Shoes:
- Best Overall Spin Shoes: Nike SuperRep Cycle 2 Next Nature
- Best Spin Shoes for Men: NoBull Cycling Shoe
- Best Spin Shoes for Women: adidas Indoor Cycling Shoe
- Best Spin Shoes for Spin Classes: Pearl iZumi Vesta
- Best Spin Shoes for Peloton: Nike SuperRep Cycle 2 Next Nature
- Best Breathable Spin Shoe: NoBull Cycling Shoe
- Best Spin Shoes for Walking: Bontrager Cadence Indoor Cycling Shoe
- Best Universal Spin Shoe: adidas Road Cycling Shoes
- Best Budget Spin Shoes on Amazon: Fizik Tempo Powerstrap R5
Best Overall Spin Shoes: Nike SuperRep Cycle 2 Next Nature
Nike
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 5/5 stars
- Price: $120
- Material: Lightweight mesh upper, internal and external plate
- Closure: Adjustable Velcro strap
- Size range: 6–15
- Cleat compatibility: Two-bolt and three-bolt
A more sustainable upgrade to the Nike SuperRep Cycle, the Nike SuperRep Cycle 2 Next Nature was designed to support your highest intensity workouts, and is made with recycled materials. This shoe is super lightweight, with breathable mesh on the upper and vents on the sole that allow for all over airflow. The redesigned strap closure, with two fastening points, not only keeps your feet secure, but makes it easy to customize the fit—great for beginners and experienced cyclists alike. A smooth, stiff plate underfoot maximizes energy return, but rubber under the heel and toe gives you traction so you won’t wipe out when you step off the pedals.
Pros:
- Available in five colors
- Compatible with two- and three-bolt cleat systems
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- Cleats sold separately
- Runs small/narrow
Best Spin Shoes for Men: NoBull Cycling Shoe
NoBull
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 4/5 stars
- Price: $179
- Material: Perforated performance upper
- Closure: Forefoot Velcro strap and laces
- Size range: Unisex 8-14
- Cleat compatibility: Three-bolt
There’s no getting around it: The average man typically sweats more than a woman, and the skin of the foot has more sweat glands per square inch than any other part of the body. This perforated shoe is downright airy, a feature most men will appreciate—especially when riding in a hot, humid spin studio. Perspiration aside, guys will appreciate the amount of power that comes from the nylon and carbon fiber plate in the midsole, and the comfort that comes courtesy of the molded anatomical sockliner.
Pros:
- Three-bolt cleat pattern is compatible with indoor and road pedal systems
- Secure fit via a lacing system and forefoot Velcro strap
- Material dries quickly and retains less heat
Cons:
- Perforations may rub, depending on foot shape and size
- May run a bit small
- Cleats sold separately
Best Spin Shoes for Women: adidas Indoor Cycling Shoe
Adidas
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 4.2/5 stars
- Price: $140
- Material: 50 percent recycled textile upper, synthetic lining, fiberglass-reinforced nylon midsole plate
- Closure: Hook-and-loop strap
- Size range: Men's 3—14.5; women's 4-15.5
- Cleat compatibility: Three-bolt
Women with feet of all sizes will appreciate the range of the adidas Indoor Cycling Shoe: It’s available in sizes 4 all the way through 15.5. Plus, the criss-cross Velcro strap allows you to fine tune the fit so your whole foot is comfortable (women tend to have wider forefeet and narrower heels than men, so this allows you to keep things looser by the toes but snug up top). The stiff, full-length midsole allows you to get the most effort out of every pedal stroke, and the breathable upper—made from 50 percent recycled materials—is equipped with ventilation zones that keep sweat from pooling under foot even as you dial up the intensity.
Pros:
- Available in five colors
- Three-bolt cleat pattern is compatible with both indoor and road pedal systems
- Fiberglass-reinforced nylon midsole plate
Cons:
- Runs a bit smaller than standard sneaker sizes
- Lacing is difficult to adjust mid-workout
- Cleats sold separately
Best Spin Shoes for Spin Classes: Pearl Izumi Vesta
Pearl Izumi
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 4.4/5 stars
- Price: $125
- Material: Mesh upper with 3/4-length composite shanks in the outsole
- Closure: Single Velcro strap
- Size range: Women’s 37–43
- Cleat compatibility: Two-bolt
Don’t miss a beat in the Pearl Izumi Vesta, which could be mistaken for a traditional athletic shoe. The two-bolt cleat mounts are actually recessed into the shoe, so you can walk normally the second you’re out of the saddle following your indoor cycling classes. While you’re riding, though, built-in three-quarter length composite shanks between the midsole and outsole provide stiffness to help maximize energy return so you can pedal stronger (a seamless mesh design keeps things nice and airy). And if you have to adjust the fit mid-workout, it couldn’t be easier with the single-strap closures.
Pros:
- Can be worn on and off the bike
- Designed for maximum comfort
- Accommodates wider feet
Cons:
- Only available in women’s sizing
- Single strap closure doesn’t allow for fine-tuning the fit
- No full-length plate
Best Spin Shoes for Peloton: Nike SuperRep Cycle 2 Next Nature
Nike
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 5/5 stars
- Price: $120
- Material: Lightweight mesh upper, internal and external plate
- Closure: Adjustable Velcro strap
- Size range: 6–15
- Cleat compatibility: Two-bolt and three-bolt
What makes the Nike SuperRep Cycle 2 Next Nature unique from the other shoes on this list is that these high-quality spin shoes are compatible with two- and three-bolt cleat systems. The Peloton Bike is compatible with Delta cleats, which you can attach to the bottom of any pair of bike shoes with a three-bolt setup—like the Nike SuperRep Cycle 2 Next Nature (which ring up at $5 less than the Peloton shoes). It’s not just about price, though; the Nike shoes are lightweight with all-over breathability, easily adjustable double straps and a stiff internal plate for energy efficiency.
Pros:
- Available in five colors
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- Cleats sold separately
- Runs small/narrow
Best Breathable Spin Shoes: NoBull Cycling Shoe
NoBull
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 4/5 stars
- Price: $179
- Material: Perforated performance upper
- Closure: Forefoot velcro strap and laces
- Size range: 8–14 (unisex)
- Cleat compatibility: Three-bolt
Just look at these spin shoes: Could they be more breathable? The deconstructed upper is full of perforations to allow air to flow over your feet as you pedal. It’s also made of a lightweight performance material (the brand isn’t specific) that dries quickly and retains less heat to keep things from getting swampy, even as the miles click by. And if your feet do start to get clammy, there’s no risk of losing your footing within the shoe; a Velcro forefoot strap paired with a lacing system allows you to customize the fit, and an elastic lace keeper negates any risk of loose strings getting caught in your wheels.
Pros:
- Three-bolt cleat pattern is compatible with indoor and road pedal systems
- Nylon and carbon fiber plate
- Has a molded, anatomical sockliner for comfort
Cons:
- Perforations may rub, depending on foot shape and size
- May run a bit small
- Cleats sold separately
Best Spin Shoes for Walking: Bontrager Cadence Indoor Cycling Shoe
Bontrager
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 4.3/5 stars
- Price: $139.99
- Material: Mesh upper and EVA foam midsole
- Closure: Single BOA dial system
- Size range: 36–48 (unisex)
- Cleat compatibility: Two-bolt
There’s nothing more awkward than clipping out of your bike in a spin studio and having to duck walk over to your locker to grab your gear. Instead of having a cleat mounted to the outside of the sole, the Bontrager Cadence Indoor Cycling Shoe is designed so that the cleats are recessed into the outsole. (If you’re working out at home, this means you don’t have to worry about scratching your floors.) When you flip them over, you’ll see the shoes have a study tread similar to most other athletic shoes. This is an especially great hybrid shoe for interval workouts that have you hopping in and out of the saddle—or if you just hate carrying a second pair of shoes with you on your trek to the studio.
Pros:
- Can be worn on and off the bike
- BOA system allows for micro fit adjustments
- Available in three colors
Cons:
- No plate in the midsole
- Cleats sold separately
Best Universal Spin Shoes: adidas Road Cycling Shoes
Adidas
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 4.7/5 stars
- Price: $160
- Material: Primeweave upper and fiberglass-reinforced nylon midsole plate
- Closure: Lace
- Size range: Men's 6—14; women's 7—15
- Cleat compatibility: Three-bolt
As the name implies, the adidas Road Cycling Shoes were built for cyclists riding the pavement, but work just as well indoors. The classic lace-up system lets you set yourself up with a snug fit, and internal heel counter cups keep your foot locked in no matter how hard you push the pace. Up top, the lightweight and breathable Primeweave fabric fits like a second skin, with an adaptive tongue that conforms to the unique shape of your foot, while underneath, a fiberglass-reinforced nylon midsole plate helps you tap into top speeds on your road bike or hit a new PR on your indoor cycling bike. As a nice finishing touch, the brand’s trademark three stripes are reflective—a safety element on the road, and an intimidation factor in the gym.
Pros:
- Available in three colors
- Made with recycled materials
- Fiberglass-reinforced nylon midsole plate
Cons:
- Lacing system isn’t easily adjustable mid-ride
- Cleats sold separately
Best Budget Spin Shoes on Amazon: Fizik Tempo Powerstrap R5
Fizik
Key Features:
- Customer rating: 4.5/5 stars
- Price: Starting at $60.99
- Material: 100 percent synthetic, nylon composite outsole
- Closure: Velcro Powerstrap
- Size range: 4–13.5
- Cleat compatibility: Three-bolt
At under $100, the Fizik Tempo Powerstrap R5 delivers everywhere you need it to without adding extra features that jack up the price. The most eye-catching feature is the wraparound Velcro ribbon (the namesake Powerstrap) that allows you to separately adjust the fit around the forefoot and the midfoot. But less obvious features are just as appealing: The nylon composite outsole is stiff enough to help you maximize your output, but has enough give that you can comfortably pedal for extended periods.
Pros:
- Very comfortable and secure fit
- Look more expensive than they are
- Very lightweight
Cons:
- Challenging to adjust mid-ride
- Cleats sold separately
How We Chose the Best Spin Shoes
In compiling a list of the best spin shoes, we looked at the materials used, the breathability of the design, the versatility of the shoe, the overall cost and the feedback from reviewers.
How to Choose the Best Spin Shoes for You
Like with any athletic shoe, the number one thing to consider is comfort. If your foot is comfortable in a shoe, you’re more likely to wear it, which means you’re more likely to work out, and you’re less likely to inhibit your own performance or put yourself at risk for injuries or performance issues. That may mean you need to try out a pair before fully committing; make sure to check a company’s return policy before clicking “buy.”
How Spin Shoes Work
Flip a spin shoe over and you’ll see a stiff sole with holes for a cleat (FYI: most cleats are sold separately). That cleat secures your foot to the pedals so you can ride as hard as possible, with more power transfer from your legs to the bike, without losing your footing.
You can clip one foot in before climbing on to the bike, or you can get into the saddle and then clip in each foot. To clip in, you basically just step on to the pedal and wiggle your foot, pressing down until you hear a click (it may take some practice!). To clip out, make sure your foot is in a neutral or flat position and then twist your heel away from the bike until the clip disengages.
What to Look for in Spin Shoes
Features
Remember, the most important feature in a spin shoe is a comfortable, supportive fit. Beyond fit, elements like the lace-up system, cleat compatibility, materials used, breathability, versatility, and cost may play a role in your purchasing decision.
Fastening system
Spin shoes fasten via three common systems: lacing, adjustable Velcro straps and BOA dials. A lace-up spin shoe will tie the same way as any other athletic shoe; you can tighten them to exactly your preference, but it will be difficult to make changes once you’re on the bike. Adjustable Velcro straps allow for easier adjustments while riding, and if there’s more than one strap, you can calibrate the fit around different areas of your foot. BOA systems—which use a dial to tighten and loosen the fit of a thin cable rather than a lace—are generally found on more expensive models, but allow for the most precise adjustments, especially while in the saddle.
Cost
A good pair of spin shoes can cost anywhere between $50 and $200. Don’t assume you need to buy a pair at the top end of that range. If you’re only an occasional rider, you can absolutely find an affordable, supportive spin shoe—it just might not have the most high-tech features, like BOA dial systems or carbon plates in the midsole.
Compatibility
There are two common types of cleats used in spinning: two-bolt (also known as SPD cleats) or three-bolt. Two-bolt cleats require (you guessed it) two bolts to secure to the shoe, and work with dual-sided pedals, which are easier to clip into. Another bonus: They are often recessed into the shoe, making walking around off the bike much easier. Three-bolt cleats (sometimes called SPD-SL, or Look Delta) are attached via three bolts, and are usually attached to the outside of a flat sole with zero traction—so you wouldn’t want to walk around in these once you’re off the bike.
Spin Shoes FAQs
Do spin shoes make a difference?
Yes. Spin shoes are designed to clip into a bike’s pedals to help maximize energy transfer, so you can ride more efficiently and more powerfully (and get more out of your workout). A shoe that isn’t specifically made for cycling may cause fatigue or pain if you’re riding for longer periods.
Do I need spin shoes to attend a spin class?
Not necessarily. Some bike pedals come with standard pedals or toe cages (small frames that attach to the front of the pedal to secure your foot), and you can even use regular shoes on clip-in pedals. But you should check with a studio to see what options they have available; some may not allow you to ride in anything but spin shoes.
Should spin shoes fit loose or tight?
Spin shoes should fit snugly (not tight), with less than half an inch between your toes and the front of the shoe. You don’t need to be able to wiggle your toes, but they shouldn’t feel squished in the toe box at all. If they’re loose, they’re too big. Keep in mind that indoor cycling shoes typically come with minimal cushioning.
Final Thoughts
If you want to get more out of your spin sessions, investing in a good pair of shoes will go a long way. But don’t get caught up in high-tech performance features; even a budget pair will be designed to support you in the saddle more than a regular pair of shoes would. The most important feature when it comes to spin shoes is comfort and fit, so take the time to find a pair that feels best on your feet—and that feel-good effect will translate straight to your workouts.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
