If you are new to indoor cycling, you might be wondering what kind of shoes and cleats you need for your spinning bike. In this blog post, we will explain the different types of cycling shoes and cleats, and how to choose the best ones for your spinning bike.
What are cycling shoes, and why do you need them?
Cycling shoes are designed to improve your pedaling efficiency and comfort. They have stiff soles that prevent your feet from flexing and wasting energy, and they attach to the pedals with cleats that allow you to transfer more power and control. Cycling shoes also have breathable uppers that keep your feet cool and dry, and some have adjustable straps or dials that let you customize the fit.
What are the different types of cycling shoes?
There are two main types of cycling shoes: road shoes and mountain bike shoes.
Road shoes are optimized for speed and performance on smooth surfaces. They have very stiff soles, narrow heels, and smooth bottoms that fit into clipless pedals with three-bolt cleats. Road shoes are lightweight and aerodynamic, but they are not very comfortable or stable to walk in.
Mountain bike shoes are more versatile and durable for rough terrain. They have slightly flexible soles, wider heels, and lugged bottoms that fit into clipless pedals with two-bolt cleats. Mountain bike shoes are heavier and bulkier than road shoes, but they are more comfortable and stable to walk in. Some mountain bike shoes also have recessed cleats that make them compatible with flat pedals.
Spinning bikes can use either road or mountain bike shoes, depending on the type of pedals they have. Some spinning bikes have dual-sided pedals that can accommodate both types of cleats, while others have only one type of pedal. You should check the pedals on your spinning bike before buying cycling shoes and cleats.
What are cleats, and how do they work?
Cleats are the metal or plastic pieces that attach to the bottom of your cycling shoes and clip into the pedals. Cleats come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the type of pedal system they are compatible with. The most common pedal systems for spinning bikes are SPD, Look Delta, and SPD-SL.
SPD stands for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, a two-bolt system that is widely used for mountain biking and spinning. SPD cleats are small and recessed into the sole of the shoe, making them easy to walk in. SPD pedals are also easy to clip in and out of, and they offer some lateral movement (float) for your feet to adjust their position.
Look Delta is a three-bolt system that is popular for road biking and spinning. Look Delta cleats are large and protrude from the sole of the shoe, making them hard to walk in. Look Delta pedals are more secure and stable than SPD pedals, and they offer more float for your feet to rotate.
SPD-SL is another three-bolt system that is similar to Look Delta, but with a slightly different shape and size. SPD-SL cleats are also large and protrude from the sole of the shoe, making them hard to walk in. SPD-SL pedals are also more secure and stable than SPD pedals, but they offer less float than Look Delta pedals.
How to choose the best cycling shoes and cleats for your spinning bike?
To choose the best cycling shoes and cleats for your spinning bike, you should consider your personal preferences, comfort level, and budget. Here are some tips to help you decide:
- If you want to use the same shoes for outdoor cycling and spinning, you should choose road shoes with Look Delta or SPD-SL cleats, depending on the type of pedals on your outdoor bike.
- If you want to use different shoes for outdoor cycling and spinning, you should choose mountain bike shoes with SPD cleats for spinning, as they are more comfortable and versatile.
- If you want to use only one pair of shoes for spinning, you should choose either road or mountain bike shoes with SPD cleats, as they are compatible with most spinning bikes.
- If you want to have more float for your feet to rotate freely, you should choose Look Delta or SPD-SL cleats over SPD cleats.
- If you want to have more stability and security for your feet to stay in place, you should choose SPD-SL or Look Delta cleats over SPD cleats.
- If you want to have more ease of clipping in and out of the pedals, you should choose SPD cleats over Look Delta or SPD-SL cleats.
- If you want to have more comfort and convenience when walking around, you should choose SPD cleats over Look Delta or SPD-SL cleats.
What else do you need for indoor cycling?
In addition to cycling shoes and cleats, you should also wear socks that are suitable for cycling. Socks for cycling should be made of synthetic or wool materials that wick away moisture and prevent blisters. They should also be thin and snug-fitting to avoid bunching up in your shoes. You can choose socks that match your cycling shoe color or style or go for something fun and funky to express your personality.
Cycling shoes, cleats, and socks are essential gear for indoor cycling. They can improve your performance, comfort, and safety on the spinning bike. By following this beginner’s guide, you can find the best cycling shoes, cleats, and socks for your spinning bike and enjoy your ride.
Related Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about cycling shoes and cleats for spinning bikes:
How do I know what size of cycling shoes to buy? Cycling shoes are usually sized according to the European system, which ranges from 35 to 50. You can use a conversion chart to find your equivalent size in US or UK measurements. You should also measure your feet length and width, and compare them with the manufacturer’s size chart. Cycling shoes should fit snugly but not too tightly, with enough room for your toes to wiggle.
How do I adjust my cleats on my cycling shoes? You can adjust your cleats on your cycling shoes by using a hex wrench or a screwdriver to loosen the bolts that hold them in place. You can then slide or rotate the cleats to find the best position for your feet. You should align the cleats with the ball of your foot and make sure they are parallel to the shoe. You can also adjust the angle of the cleats to match the natural rotation of your feet. You should tighten the bolts securely after adjusting the cleats.
How do I clip in and out of the pedals on my spinning bike? To clip into the pedals on your spinning bike, you should align your cleat with the pedal and push down firmly until you hear a click. To clip out of the pedals, you should twist your heel outward until you feel the cleat release from the pedal. You should practice clipping in and out of the pedals before starting your ride, and make sure you unclip before stopping or getting off the bike.