Whether you’re cycling at home or in a spin studio, the right pair of cycling shoes allow you to lock into the pedal making a huge difference in performance and comfort. “With your feet locked in, you’ll maintain a nice sturdy base and lower the risk of kicking yourself with the pedal as your shoes won’t slip,” says Brooke Emory, fitness consultant and master trainer at Motosumo, a live, interactive platform for at-home cycling classes.

With a stiff, firm sole, cycling shoes ensure proper alignment, a smoother ride, and more control—reducing your risk of injuries. Indoor cycling bikes have two common types of cleat systems so be sure to check before you buy spin shoes. We evaluated spin shoes for fit and comfort, durability, and type of cleats.

Reviewed & Approved

Our top overall pick, the Tommaso Pista Women’s Cycling shoe has a reinforced sole for optimal stiffness and power transfer for longer rides. The TIEM Slipstream Indoor Cycling Shoe is a good option for beginners.

Here are the best spin shoes on the market.

Whether you want to try a new indoor cycling studio or just got a Peloton bike, the versatile Tommaso Pista is an excellent choice for a high-performance, durable spin shoe, which makes it our best overall pick. It comes with either pre-installed SPD or Delta cleats, so you can choose the option that you need for your machine.

Best Overall

Tommaso Pista Women’s Cycling Shoe

  • Velcro upper

  • Comes with SPD or Delta cleats

  • Very comfortable

  • Well-ventilated

  • Mixed reviews on Peloton compatibility

  • Runs small

While these shoes are beginner-friendly, seasoned spin class enthusiasts will also be impressed with the shoe’s comfort and performance. The fiberglass-reinforced sole provides optimal stiffness and power transfer, allowing you to ride longer and more efficiently. With an adjustable, low-profile strap, you get a snug fit that keeps your feet secure during rides.

The shoe’s synthetic leather upper, padding, and ventilated mesh make these a breathable option. They’re available in women’s sizes 6 to 11.

Price at time of publication: $110

Closure: Three Velcro straps | Cleats: Included | Compatibility: SPD and Delta

If you’re a cycling newbie or looking for a quality shoe on a budget, you’ll want to consider this versatile pick from Santic. They’re compatible with most types of pedals and cleats and can be used for both indoor and road cycling. The precision buckle and Velcro straps offer a secure, precise fit that you can adjust for optimal comfort, while the perforated holes throughout provide excellent ventilation.

Best Budget

Santic Cycling Shoes with Buckle

  • Affordable

  • Good ventilation

  • Ergonomic fit

  • Very sturdy

  • Cleats not included

  • Runs big

They’re available in men’s sizes 6.5 to 12, but the design works well for women, too. You’ll also need to purchase cleats separately.

Price at time of publication: $100

Closure: Buckle and Velcro straps | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: Delta

If you’re new to indoor cycling, you’ll want to check out the Tiem Slipstream, which looks and feels more like a traditional sneaker than a cycling shoe. The clips are hidden in the sole of the shoe, so you won’t be wobbling around the studio when you’re off the bike. Plus, they’re exceptionally comfortable, thanks to a cotton lining, breathable mesh toebox, and a wide footbed.

Best for Beginners

TIEM Slipstream Indoor Cycling Shoe

  • Recessed cleats

  • Easy to get on and off

  • Very comfortable

  • Good for wide feet

  • Cleats not included

  • Expensive

The slip-on construction and single-strap closure system are an added bonus that set this shoe apart from the rest. They’re available in women’s sizes 5 to 11 and work for both narrow and wide feet, thanks to the shoe’s flexibility and adjustable strap. You’ll have to buy a pair of clips separately.

Price at time of publication: $135

Closure: Single strap | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: SPD

Known for quality, Pearl Izumi doesn’t disappoint with this well-designed cycling shoe. Versatility is important when picking a shoe, and this one is compatible with both Peloton bikes and two-bolt SPD cleats. Easy-to-adjust Velcro straps keep the fit secure and snug, while a padded collar adds to your comfort.

Best for Peloton

Pearl Izumi Select Road V5 Studio Shoe

  • Well-ventilated

  • Ideal for Peloton

  • Comfortable

  • Stylish

  • Runs big

  • Stiff tongue

These high-performance and stylish shoes also have a ventilated upper to keep your feet dry (and less prone to blisters) during sweaty rides. They’re available in women’s sizes 7.5 to 9.

Closure: Velcro straps | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: Delta and SPD

A leader in the cycling shoe world, Shimano knows exactly what indoor cyclists need in a durable, versatile shoe. Their high-performance IC5 cycling shoe is designed for indoor riding, making it a good choice for cyclists who love studio classes or anyone who recently added an indoor bike to their home gym.

Best for Spin Class

Shimano IC-500 Indoor Cycling Shoes

  • Comfortable and supportive fit

  • Easy to walk in

  • Very breathable

  • Durable

  • Cleats not included

  • Runs small

The shoe’s stiff sole provides good leverage on the bike that allows for high power and efficiency as you’re pedaling. With a sock-like construction and a BOA closure system, you get a custom, close-to-the-foot fit. Just spin until snug.

They’re available in European sizes 36 to 44 (which is equivalent to US sizes 5.1 to 11.2) and, as is the case with most spin shoes, the cleats are sold separately.

Price at time of publication: $125

Closure: BOA | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: SPD

This affordable cycling shoe is SPD-compatible, making it a good choice for indoor cycling class devotees. With numerous mesh inserts and a ventilated EVA insole, your feet will stay dry no matter how hard you sweat. Three durable hook and clasp straps are adjustable for your preferred fit, and the padded heel collar prevents any slippage as you’re upping the cadence.

Best SPD-Compatible

Louis Garneau Women’s Multi Air Flex Cycling Shoe

  • Easy to walk in

  • Very versatile

  • Breathable

  • Excellent for spin class

  • Runs small

  • May not work for wide feet

The lugs on the sole are relatively level, making it easy to walk comfortably (and not on your heels only) when you get off the bike. These shoes are available in women’s sizes 5.5 to 9 with cleats sold separately.

Closure: Velcro | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: SPD

Finding indoor cycling shoes that accommodate wide feet can be a challenge, but this pair from Pearl Izumi is a solid choice. With a recessed-cleat design and sneaker-like style, you can easily go straight from your workout to running errands without stopping for a shoe swap. A single strap and mesh forefoot lock allow you to find the perfect fit while giving your toes room to breathe.

Best for Wide Feet

Pearl Izumi Women’s Vesta Studio Cycling Shoe

  • Easy to walk in

  • Good for wide feet

  • Stylish

  • Very comfortable

  • Lacks stiff sole

  • Heel may slip for some

These shoes have the right amount of stiffness in the sole to give you plenty of power when pedaling, yet provide enough flexibility in the upper for a comfortable ride. They’re available in three different colors and in women’s sizes 5 to 13.

Closure: Single strap | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: SPD

If you need a cycling shoe that works for both indoor and road cycling, check out this sleek choice from Shimano. The shoe’s mesh lining and footbed keep feet dry and fresh. Adding to the overall comfort are a padded collar, roomy toebox, and two hook and loop straps that distribute the tightness evenly to eliminate pressure points.

Best for Studio-to-Road Cycling

Shimano SH-RP1 All-Rounder Cycling Shoe

  • Versatile
  • Very breathable
  • Great for Peloton

The shoes are available in women’s sizes 5 to 9.5 and don’t come with cleats. Some users say they run small, so you may want to size up when you order.

Price at time of publication: $80

Closure: Two Velcro straps | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: SPD

For a secure and sturdy feel on the bike, these Pearl Izumi shoes are a top-notch option that is SPD-compatible—meaning they work for both indoor and road cycling. The stiff nylon sole and snug fit allow for strong, efficient pedaling, while the EVA foam and a rubber heel amplify your stability and comfort.

Best Clip-in

Pearl Izumi Quest Road Cycling Shoe

  • Comfortable

  • Lightweight

  • Easy to adjust

  • Good ventilation

  • May not work for wide feet

  • Tough to walk with cleats

Available in women’s sizes 5 to 9.5, they’re less expensive than shoes with similar features, making them a good value buy.

Closure: Three straps | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: SPD and Delta

For a less expensive but quality alternative to Peloton shoes, these Venzo cycling shoes are an excellent option. Extremely comfortable and versatile, they’re compatible with both Delta and SPD cleats, making them a good choice for both road cycling and spin class. Additionally, they’re lightweight, quick-drying, and feature a highly breathable mesh and synthetic upper.

Best Clip-In

Venzo Women’s Cycling Shoes

  • Comfortable and lightweight

  • Cleats included

  • Velcro closure

  • Easy to put on and take off

  • Bolts may need retightening

  • May not work for wide feet

The shoe’s low-cut design and flexible forefoot provide a light, fast feel on the bike. Three Velcro straps offer a secure fit and make taking them on and off a cinch. Available in women’s sizes 5.5 to 11, they’re a great value for anyone looking for a reliable pair of clip-in shoes.

Closure: Three Velcro straps | Cleats: Included | Compatibility: Delta and SPD

Lightweight and sleek, this cycling shoe from Nike excels in both function and design. The external plate and user-provided cleats provide a secure, solid connection to the bike, while the stiff internal plate helps you get the most power out of each pedal. With lightweight mesh on top and vents on the sole, the shoe is designed for good airflow.

Best Lightweight

Nike SuperRep Cycling Shoes

  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Comes in a variety of colors

  • Velcro straps

  • Sleek design

  • Cleats sold separately

  • Runs small

The adjustable Velcro straps offer a snug, supportive fit that keeps the shoes in place. They also feature rubber-tipped studs built into the bottom plate, making it easier to walk to and from your bike. Available in sizes 5 to 15 and in several eye-catching colors, these shoes will boost your performance and enjoyment at spin class.

Price at time of publication: $120

Closure: Velcro straps | Cleats: Not included | Compatibility: Delta and SPD

What to Look for in Spin Shoes

Cleats

When shopping for spin shoes, you first need to check out what type of cleat you’ll need for your cycling bike. Often sold separately from spin shoes, cleats lock the rider’s feet into position on the pedal, allowing them to get a better workout by increasing their power and efficiency. You don’t have to worry about pedaling on just your toes since the shoes support your entire foot, meaning you can properly push and pull with each pedal stroke.

Final Verdict

The most common type of pedals requires two-bolt or three-bolt cleats. Indoor cycling studios may allow you to swap out pedals depending on your cleats, but some at-home bikes, such as Peloton, come with pedals that use a three-bolt cleat system. Before buying indoor cycling shoes, double-check that they’re compatible with the cleats you need.

Fit

Cycling shoes should feel snug, especially through the heel and midfoot, but you should also have some wiggle room in the forefoot. Keep in mind that cycling shoes don’t usually stretch out as much as other athletic shoes, so they shouldn’t feel extremely tight out of the box. If your toes feel crunched and it’s difficult to move them in the shoe, consider sizing up.

“There is no ‘one size fits all’ for everyone, since one shoe may feel comfortable to me but extremely tight for you,” says Emory. “When trying on a shoe, make sure your arches are supported and that your feet don’t slide.”

Velcro straps or ratchets are preferable to laces, as they make it easier to get a secure, custom fit and prevent your feet from moving and lifting around in the shoe. You also can easily adjust straps mid-ride and you don’t have to worry about laces getting tangled around the pedals. BOA closures are also worth looking into as you can twist clockwise or counterclockwise to tighten or loosen the fit, respectively.

Ventilation

Ventilation is much more important for indoor cycling shoes, since your feet won’t get a breeze as they would when you’re riding outside. You don’t have to worry about getting rained on or riding through puddles, so your shoes can have multiple holes to increase airflow. Look for shoes with mesh and perforations to keep your feet from getting soaked with sweat.

Why Trust Verywell Fit?

A certified personal trainer, gym buff, and fitness writer, Christine Luff spends countless hours researching and testing the latest exercise gear and gadgets. While she loves to ride outside on bike paths and trails, she also sometimes likes to start the day with a high-energy Spin class.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do you need spin shoes for Peloton?
  • Although some Peloton users like to wear spin shoes on the bike, they’re not necessary. You can simply attach toe cages to the pedals and wear a regular pair of sneakers for your workout. If you don’t use spin shoes or toe cages, you’ll still be able to pedal, but the quality of your workout will suffer since your feet may slip off the pedals.“Wearing cycling shoes will help your technique tremendously,” says Emory. “With your feet locked in, you will maintain a nice sturdy base and lower the risk of kicking yourself with the pedal as your shoes won’t slip.”
  • How should spin shoes fit?
  • Spin shoes should have a precise, snug fit, but they shouldn’t be extremely tight since they can cause general discomfort and possible injury. On the other hand, they shouldn’t be too loose because too much movement in your shoe could lead to inflammation and injury. Don’t squeeze your foot into a spin shoe and size up if your foot feels cramped. Your longest toe should lightly touch the edge of the shoe.
  • How to clean spin shoes
  • After each ride, you should use a brush or damp towel to wipe off any sweat, dirt, or other debris from the outside of your spin shoes. Unbuckle the shoe, take out the insole, and allow it to air out as much as possible.For an occasional deep clean, remove the insoles and soak them in a sink of warm soapy water. Rinse them off and then soak the entire shoe in warm soapy water. Rinse and then air dry in a well-ventilated area. Don’t put them in the dryer or near a heater or radiator. Wait until everything is dry before you put the insoles back into the shoes.
  • How to install cleats on spin shoes
  • You’ll need a small wrench or screwdriver in order to install cleats onto spin shoes. First, turn the shoes over and line up the holes on the cleat with the holes in the shoe. Use your wrench or screwdriver to attach the cleat to the shoe by screwing the bolts or screws into the holes. Tighten the bolts or screws a couple turns, so they’re level with the cleat.
  • How to clip in spin shoes
  • To clip in your spin shoes, first get on the bike and lift your leading leg to the pedal. Flip over the pedal and stick the front of your shoe into the front of the clip. Quickly push the pedal and listen for the sound of clicking, which means the shoe is clipped in. Follow the same process with the other side and then try pedaling to make sure you’re properly clipped in.

Although some Peloton users like to wear spin shoes on the bike, they’re not necessary. You can simply attach toe cages to the pedals and wear a regular pair of sneakers for your workout. If you don’t use spin shoes or toe cages, you’ll still be able to pedal, but the quality of your workout will suffer since your feet may slip off the pedals.

Spin shoes should have a precise, snug fit, but they shouldn’t be extremely tight since they can cause general discomfort and possible injury. On the other hand, they shouldn’t be too loose because too much movement in your shoe could lead to inflammation and injury. Don’t squeeze your foot into a spin shoe and size up if your foot feels cramped. Your longest toe should lightly touch the edge of the shoe.

After each ride, you should use a brush or damp towel to wipe off any sweat, dirt, or other debris from the outside of your spin shoes. Unbuckle the shoe, take out the insole, and allow it to air out as much as possible.

You’ll need a small wrench or screwdriver in order to install cleats onto spin shoes. First, turn the shoes over and line up the holes on the cleat with the holes in the shoe. Use your wrench or screwdriver to attach the cleat to the shoe by screwing the bolts or screws into the holes. Tighten the bolts or screws a couple turns, so they’re level with the cleat.

To clip in your spin shoes, first get on the bike and lift your leading leg to the pedal. Flip over the pedal and stick the front of your shoe into the front of the clip. Quickly push the pedal and listen for the sound of clicking, which means the shoe is clipped in. Follow the same process with the other side and then try pedaling to make sure you’re properly clipped in.