No. 10 - Giro Carbide
Key feature: DuPont Zytel nylon sole
Weight: 11.4 oz
The Carbide from Gyro isn’t going to blow your mind with cutting edge tech, but it’s got everything you need for indoor use. The SPD compatible system is placed on a nylon sole for efficient energy transfer, while lugs add extra grip throughout. Up top, synthetic leather is ventilated with mesh overlays to add some breathability, which you’ll appreciate after a sweaty session.
No. 9 - Mavic Pulse
Key feature: Energy Grip outsole
Weight: 11.6 oz
A moisture managing insole, grippy rubber lugs, and Energy Grip outsole make the Mavic Pulse a smart choice. Like many shoes on this list, it’s designed for mountain biking, so you’ll be able to get plenty of use out of these should you decide to take up a new hobby.
$50
No. 8 - Pearl Izumi All-Road II
Key feature: Concave shaped outsole
Weight: 13.2 oz
Go "all black everything" with the Pearl Izumi All-Road II. With three forefoot straps and an a nylon/composite fiber shank, these are guaranteed to lock you in place and help you get the most out of your workout.
No. 7 - Shimano Click’R CT70
Key feature: EVA Midsole
Weight: 24 oz
The Shimano Click’R CT70 adds a bit of cushion to your spin with EVA based midsoles that are reinforced with fiberglass to ensure stability. The toe is strengthened to protect against wear, and the toe box is designed with extra room for a comfortable, flexible fit.
No. 6 - Louis Garneau Lite Trainer
Key feature: HRS-80 retention system
Weight: 11.7 oz
Designed to look like a sneaker but function like a cycling shoe, the Louis Garneau Lite Trainer is deceptively well equipped. It’s got an EVA based outsole for cushion and and entirely mesh based upper for maximum breathability, while a HRS-80 retention system helps to cup the heel for pedaling power.
$90
No. 5 - Shimano FN51
Key feature: EVA midsole
Weight: 10.7 oz
The Shimano FN51 was designed with indoor cycling in mind, which makes it a perfect choice for Spinning classes. It’s not heavy on tech, but that helps keep it lightweight and sleek at just over 10 ounces.
No. 4 - Giro Privateer HV
Key feature: DuPont Zytel nylon sole
Weight: 12.2 oz
If you have wide feet, the Giro Privateer HV is the shoe you should be considering. HV stands for high volume, and these are designed especially to accommodate those with extra width. The Privteer HV has the same energy-transferring DuPont Zytel nylon sole as other Giro models, just with some added space on the inside.
No. 3 - Sidi Genius 5
Key feature: Soft Instep Closure System
Weight: Not available
If you’re a little more experienced, or are just looking to splurge, consider the Sidi Genius 5. It’s one of the most well-equipped models out there, with a rigid carbon composite sole, Caliper Buckle two-way ratchet for lockdown, and Soft Instep Closure System for comfort throughout the foot. They’re also incredibly versatile, as they can be turned into road shoes with the proper attachments.
No. 2 - Shimano MT34
Key feature: Stretch-resistant upper
Weight: 11.3 oz
Add a little color pop to your Spinning class with the Shimano MT34. These mountain bike shoes are equipped with a traditional lacing system and a stretch-resistant upper to withstand wear over time. Down low, a fiber glass reinforced polyamide shank keeps things in check.
No. 1 - Diadora Protrail 2
Key feature: Full Carbon Sole
Weight: 11.8 oz
The Diadora Protrail 2 is pretty much the Lexus of indoor cycling shoes. It’s equipped with a number of replaceable components, meaning this is the kind of shoe you’ll be able to get years and years of use out of. The upper uses a technology called Morpho Cage to wrap the foot tightly, allowing you to bottle up your power and transfer it through the carbon sole. The Protrail 2 isn’t just a cycling shoe, it’s an investment.,]
Riley Jones is a freelance writer from Charlottesville, VA and a contributor to Sneaker Report. With an unshakable affinity for basketball and all things pop culture, he can be found on Twitter @rchrstphr.
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