Spin class is always a great time: taking part in a group activity, burning calories, sweating gallons. However, you have to have the right gear if you want it to really be enjoyable.

That includes having breathable clothing and of course, the right shoes. In this case, you’re going to need a pair of the best spinning shoes.

We’ve taken the time to research the top women’s spin shoes so you don’t have to. Let’s get started!

Best Indoor Cycling Shoes For Women

	New Balance Women's 09v1 Cycling Shoes	TIEM Slipstream Indoor Cycling Spin Shoe	Tommaso Pista 100 Women's Spin Class Ready Cycling Shoe
Uppers:	Textile/Synthetic	Textile/Mesh	Synthetic Leather
Sole:	Synthetic	Nylon/Rubber	Nylon/Fiberglass
SPD Cleats:	Compatible, not included	Compatible, not included	Yes, included
Colors:	7	7	3

For more of my exercise equipment recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Spinning Bikes, Indoor Bike Trainers, Upright Stationary Bikes.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Shoes For Spin Class

1. New Balance Women’s 09v1 Cycling Shoes
2. TIEM Slipstream Indoor Cycling Spin Shoe
3. Tommaso Pista 100 Women’s Spin Class Ready Cycling Shoe
4. SHIMANO SH-RP2W Road Shoe
5. PEARL IUMI Women’s Select Road v5 Shoes
6. Louis Garneau Women’s Jade Bike Shoes
7. Giro Techne Cycling Shoes

Our reviews to the top rated women’s spin shoes with our comparison table and buyers guide will help you choose the right shoes for spin class for you.

Women’s Indoor Cycling Shoe Reviews

#1 New Balance Women’s 09v1 Cycling Shoes

If you’re searching for a pair of the best spin shoes, then you first need to check out the New Balance Women’s 09v1 Cycling Shoe.

New Balance is easily one of the most well-respected names in the industry due to the high level of quality they produce and how much they care about their consumers. Their 09v1s are exemplary of this.

Coming in 7 different colors like Solar Yellow, White, and Sea Salt, you’ll not only feel great, but look stylish, too.

While they do come comprised of textile and synthetic materials, they’re extremely durable and made to last for years of spinning.

Made for both indoor and outdoor use, they’re also quite versatile, so you don’t have to purchase two separate pairs of shoes if you like cycling outdoors or in a formal class at the gym.

The textile material serves as a breathable barrier that simultaneously protects your feet while letting air in and out to keep your feet cool and dry, even during intense sessions.

You’ll also find a hidden inner shank plate to provide added sturdiness and stability so you can ride with even more confidence.

The EVA midsole offers excellent transfer of energy to keep you on your toes, while also giving you extra shock absorption to minimize fatigue.

#2 TIEM Slipstream Indoor Cycling Spin Shoe

Considered the best indoor cycling shoes by not only us but countless other consumers, the TIEM Slipstream Indoor Cycling Spin Shoes are a versatile, stylish model you’re sure to fall in love with at first spin.

Coming in 7 different trendy colorways, you’ll want to wear these everywhere you go. As they work both indoors and outdoors, that won’t be a problem at all for you.

You’ll notice right away that these feature a modern, minimal silhouette that look like sneakers we’d wear on a daily basis.

The slip-on style is incredibly convenient and makes them quick to take on or off. The single-strap design ensures security, and that your feet won’t slip around as you’re using them.

Just make sure to follow TIEM’s recommendation and opt for half a size down from your regular athletic shoe size.

The shoes are so lightweight due to the uppers coming made of both textile and mesh. The textile upper offers extra durability and protection while the mesh is conveniently placed to allow for optimum airflow for your comfort.

The recessed SPD cleat assembly and rubber outsole are also quite strong, but let you seamlessly get around the studio and use them on the bike without issue.

A durable nylon cycling shank only adds to this durability. While these are SPD-compatible, just remember that these do not actually come with the cleats.

#3 Tommaso Pista 100 Women’s Spin Class Ready Cycling Shoe

Easily one of the best-selling and top-rated spin class shoes for women, the Tommaso Pisa are a great budget selection while still giving you high-quality materials and performance.

The futuristic-looking shoes don’t come in many colors, but still looks. Despite being so affordable, they’re quite durable so plan on having these for many years in the future

Adding to the durability, you’ll find that the soles are reinforced with fiberglass which is the lightest and strongest material you’ll find in spin shoes.

Aside from that, this pair even comes with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty and 100% free fit return policy, which isn’t often seen.

As the best spin class shoes, they also come with cleats so you don’t to purchase them separately. Aside from that, you don’t have to use an extra adapter to use different pedals as they’re compatible SPD-SL and SPD pedals.

The upper is comprised of durable synthetic leather which is incredibly tough, while the luxurious padding will prevent any chafing or discomfort.

If you’re worried about leather being too hot, there are also strategically placed mesh sections to allow for air to flow in and out.

The low-profile Velcro straps offer the perfect fit for your feet, while adding comfort and security so you can spin your hardest.

#4 Shimano SH-RP21 Road Shoe

Shimano is another strong innovator on the market, known worldwide for their cycling gear. Needless to say, their SH-RP2W has the same reputation, made of the highest-quality materials to give you the best experience possible.

In all honestly, we had a hard time finding even one downside with these best indoor spin shoes.

We’ll start off by saying that if you have narrow feet and are having trouble finding a shoe that fits you correctly, these are the ones for you.

You’ll find a narrower heel cup, less volume, along with added support in the arches of the feet and a smaller toe box.

Much like the previous product, these are also made with synthetic leather for the uppers. However, these are just slightly more supple and stretch-resistant to most we’ve seen, so you get comfort and durability in one design.

So, why didn’t they just use regular leather? Aside from these appealing to those who don’t agree with wearing real leather, they’re less expensive, more lightweight, and stronger than natural leather.

The extra-padded tongue aided in the high level of comfort, providing protection from friction and potential chafing.

The soles once again draw comparisons to the Tommaso Pisas with their soles also coming comprised of fiberglass-reinforced nylon.

This ensures they stay light on your feet, so you don’t become more exhausted than you should be.

#5 PEARL IZUMI Women’s Select Road v5 Shoes

While we absolutely love every brand on our guide, PEARL IZUMI is just at a different level than anyone else. They provide a level of quality that not every one of us feel we need, but that all of us love.

With that being said, you should also expect to pay a premium price for what you’re getting with them; that’s not to say you don’t deserve it.

As with any shoe, comfort should be our main priority. With the PEARL IZUMI Select Cycling v5 model, you will receive this, and more.

As the advanced 3-layer seamless composite upper molds to your individual foot shape, all chances of hot spots are eliminated. It almost feels like you’re wearing socks, but with more integrity and protection.

Anatomic 3-strap closures only aid in the ergonomic design while removing pressure from your instep and giving you a secure fit.

The composite uppers are extremely durable and lightweight, which will definitely last you for years.

Made to be used both indoors and outdoors, you can really give them a beating without worrying about them getting damaged in any way; it really takes a lot to see wear and tear on these beauties.

Speaking of beauty, these are also one of the most visually attractive pair of spin shoes we’ve seen. Coming in 3 different colorways, they look unique and come with standout colors.

With all that, it’s quite easy to see why these are the best spin class shoes, isn’t it?

#6 Louis Garneau Women’s Jade Bike Shoes

While there are many options out there, the Louis Garneau Women’s Drizzle Shoes have always been some of the best spin shoes for women.

They’re also a bit more pricey, but it’s more than worth it when you see how durable and comfy they are. If you’re looking for that and more, then keep on reading.

While they do only come in 2 colors, they’re still not bad on the eyes. We wouldn’t say they’re the most attractive out there, but they aren’t poor by any means.

The clipless cycling shoe works in both indoor and outdoor settings, so they’re almost like a 2-in-1.

While the cleats aren’t included, they do work with all major road and SPD pedals, so you don’t have to go on a wild goose chase to find some.

No matter where you’re riding, you can count on your feet staying cool and comfortable. The patented ventilated outsole along with the mesh in the upper gives supreme airflow while the synthetic leather ensures flexibility and protection.

The Cool Stuff insole also aids in breathability while providing excellent arch support.

Moving onto the sole, you’ll find an injected nylon/fiberglass makeup. This ensures stability, stiffness, and strength, while the HRS-80 retention cup will keep your heel from moving around while pedaling.

#7 Giro Techne Cycling Shoes

As some of the best indoor cycling shoes for women, the Giro Techne Cycling Shoes are sure to turn heads.

Giro is one of the top brands on the market, and has been for quite a while so it’s no surprise these are one of the top-selling pairs money can buy. While they may look stunning, they’re much more than just looks.

These are much more than just a crowd favorite, too. As a regular producer of shoes favored by the pro peleton, you can rest (or not) knowing that you have pro-level quality on your feet.

Despite this, they’re relatively affordable, so you don’t have to empty out the wallet to do so.

Using the classic trio of Velcro straps, you get simplicity, convenience, and security all in one. The shoe fits snugly, but never too tight – no matter if you have high or low volume feet.

The synthetic upper is comprised of multiple panels to make these ideal for wider feet. You’ll find ventilated fabric panels along with a few perforations to give you a solid amount of ventilation along with protection.

We found these to be a bit stiffer than most, giving extra support to the arches and the heel for stabilization and confidence. The padded tongue gives added comfort, making sure there’s no chafing going on.

The sole is made up of a nylon-reinforced plastic which isn’t bad nor spectacular. You’ll get a good amount of stiffness with just a bit of flex at the toe.

The two and three-bolt cleat arrangements give you more options and practicality, but do not include cleats.

The model is finished off with an in-molded vent, toe bumper, and heel gripper to add to the sophistication and sleekness of the shoe along with protection.

Indoor Spin Shoes Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Shoes For Spin Class- Buying Guide

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to read through the reviews of the spin class shoes, which pair works best for you? If you’re still unsure, there’s no need to worry.

We’ve decided to take it upon ourselves to write up the user-friendly buying guide, below. This guide will take you step-by-step through each point to consider during the selection process.

By the time you’re finished, there should be no doubt which pair of shoes is the one for you!

Cleats

First off, let’s look at cleats, because they’re incredibly important when it comes to spinning. Cleats are generally sold separately, as there are two different types which work with the two main pedaling systems.

SPD Compatibility

When you get SPD cleats, they should fit to your shoes, clipping into your pedals without issue. These come with a 2-hole design with 4 screw holes that allows for a safe but flexible feel. Clipping in and out is seamless, and this design makes for the most powerful and natural feel as the cleat can be placed right under the balls of the feet.

Recessed Cleats

There are others which have recessed cleats. The outsole of the shoes wrap around the cleat, keeping the sole flat so you can walk in the studio easily, or outdoors, without having to change your shoes. These also provide more traction so you’re not going to slip. These are the favorite of most spinners, it seems.

Uppers

You’ll find various materials for the uppers of the spinning shoes reviewed above. Let’s take a look at each so you can determine which are the best for you.

Synthetic Leather: This material is one of the most durable and offers a great amount of protection. If you accidentally hit your foot on something, it’s not going to hurt much as the synthetic leather is relatively thick and stiff. Most won’t stretch, either, so you can ensure a snug and proper fit even with years of regular use. However, they should be matched with mesh or have a sufficient number of perforations to allow for airflow as the material naturally holds in heat.

Mesh: Mesh shouldn’t be used as an upper on its own, but is commonly found with other materials to make them lighter and allow for more flexibility and airflow. Mesh is very cheap and usually not very durable, so again, it shouldn’t be used in excess.

Synthetic/Textile: This is the most common material, and we know “synthetic” isn’t very specific. This is usually a blend of various materials that make up a relatively durable and inexpensive upper.

Composite: This is our personal favorite, along with countless others. The reason why, is because they’re extremely lightweight, durable, and mold to the shape of your feet. This allows for the most natural and accurate fit possible, ensuring you’re comfortable and efficient every class. The downside to this material, is that it’s notably more expensive than the others.

Soles

The soles of the shoes are also crucial to your experience, as they’re the part that will provide support to your feet while staying in contact with the floor, ground, and/or pedals.

Synthetic: This is yet again the most commonly-used material, which isn’t one specific material. It should be durable, sturdy, yet have just a bit of flex near the toe to allow for natural movement. These are typically very affordable.

Nylon/Fiberglass: This duo is commonly paired together, and is also our favorite. Nylon is lightweight and tough, and so is fiberglass. In fact, we’re hard-pressed to find any material that’s lighter and more tough than fiberglass, making it an excellent selection for indoor cycling shoes. The downside, is that it’s more expensive.

Padding

The amount of padding you get varies widely from model to model. How much you get is dependent on you and your personal preferences. A light amount of padding adds to a more natural feel and allow for a bit more movement.

However, this may be uncomfortable for those with more sensitive skin as it may cause hot spots or blisters depending on your feet. Heavy padding gives your feet a bit more protection but also lowers the chance of discomfort, the shoes digging into your feet, and blisters.

No matter what you choose, we do recommend opting for a pair with a padded tongue, as this part of the shoe can often cause chafing which will distract you and even possibly inhibit your performance.

Closures

You’ll almost always find Velcro closures on indoor cycling shoes, but the amount of straps will vary. Some have one, some two, and some three. You won’t typically find more or less than that, though it is possible.

Three straps are going to offer the most security, allowing for a more snug fit while taking off some stress from the instep to eliminate hot spots.

One is obviously more convenient, but could cause your feet to wiggle around while you’re pedaling. While this depends on the person, if you’re unsure, then go for at least 2 or 3.

Price

How much are you looking to spend on a good pair of spinning shoes? It’s important that you have a solid idea in mind before you start shopping, and don’t go over that number. That way, there’s no chance of you ending up with buyer’s remorse.

While there are shoes that can fit just about any budget, by spending a bit more you’ll get premium materials that last longer, are more lightweight, and form to the shape of your individual feet better.

FAQs About Shoes For Spin Class

Q: What does SPD cleat compatible mean?

A: SPD, also known as Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, is a type of clipless bike pedals featuring a large plastic cleat that attaches to your shoe with three bolts. The mechanism is one-sided, so you have to make sure the pedal’s facing the right way for them to clip in. Shoes that are SPD-compatible have the ability to work with any SPD pedal out there.

Q: Are SPD pedals more efficient?

A: Yes, they are. First off, you’re going to get better and more efficient at pedaling the more you do it. However, SPD pedals are placed right under the balls of the feet which allow for more strength. They also allow you to pull up instead of just pushing down, which works more muscles, thus, more efficiency.

Q: What is the advantage of clip on pedals?

A: There are many benefits. One, is that you’ll have a secure connection between your shoes and pedals so there’s less chance of slippage and may feel easier.

You begin to feel like you and your spin bike are one entity, which helps you to pedal more fluidly which can reduce fatigue. As you can now pull up on the pedals, you have better power transfer through the entire stroke while maintaining more momentum, too.

Q: Can you walk in clipless shoes?

A: As clipless shoes have recesses for the pedals, the sole will feet flat, just like a regular shoe so walking is no issue.

Q: What are clipless shoes?

A: They’re a shoe with cleats recessed into them so that they clip in perfectly to your bike pedals.

Q: Does spin class help cycling?

A: Absolutely! As you get an entire 360-degree pedal stroke, you can improve your range of motion and efficiency. Not only that, but you can improve your endurance and leg strength which translates perfectly over to cycling.

Tips For Choosing Indoor Cycling Shoes For Women

#1: Make sure you shoes for spin class are compatible with the pedals you have or will be using.

As previously mentioned, there are various types of cleats available on spinning shoes, and having the wrong ones will prevent you from clipping in properly.

#2: Stiff soles and actually be connected to the pedals will boost not only comfort, but efficiency.

They will make you more fluid in your movements, allowing your body to move naturally without being forced.

#3: How should my spinning shoes fit?

You want your shoes to be snug in the heel (no wiggling around!) with evenly placed pressure throughout the instep. You don’t want your feet to be pressing against the ends and should have a bit of toe room on the end. They should never feel uncomfortable, but you should have a fit like a glove.

Summary

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to read all about our top shoes for spin class, which pair will be landing on your doorstep? While each of the products we’ve reviewed are the best on the market today, what’s most important is that you’ve selected the perfect product for you and your needs.

Every athlete is different in our skills, preferences, and bodies. We hope that this guide has helped you to make the right decision, no matter which one you select. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you again shortly!

How We Researched

To come up with the top shoes for spin class, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as REI, Walmart, Target and Dick’s Sporting Goods along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources