In the world of indoor cycling, shoes and pedals are almost as important as the bike itself. When it comes to indoor cycling, your footwear is just as vital to your experience as the bike you’re riding. A cyclist knows the Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Cycling Shoes.
The right pair of shoes can make or break your indoor cycling experience. And while most people think of outdoor cycling when they hear about pedal and shoe combinations for training indoors, it’s just as important to find a great pair of indoor cycling shoes if you want your indoor ride to be an enjoyable one.
A good pair of pedals also makes a big difference in your indoor training experience. Let’s take a look at some general differences between indoor and outdoor cycling shoes, and see what each type has to offer you.
What are the main differences between indoor and outdoor cycling shoes?
Indoor cycling shoes and outdoor cycling shoes have a few key differences. These are the main ones –
- Weight – Indoor cycling shoes are usually much lighter than outdoor cycling shoes.
- Tread – Outdoor cycling shoes have more tread on the soles to help you walk or run on outdoor surfaces. Indoor cycling shoes have little or no tread on the sole, so that you can’t walk with them.
- Sole material – The sole of indoor cycling shoes is usually made of a grippy synthetic material, so that it doesn’t slip on indoor cycling pedals. Outdoor cycling shoes have soles made of natural materials like rubber or leather.
- Style – Outdoor cycling shoes are more of a general-purpose shoe, while indoor cycling shoes are usually streamlined and minimalistic.
- Price – Outdoor cycling shoes cost more than indoor cycling shoes, since they have more features and are made with higher-quality materials.
What is an Indoor Cycling Shoe?
An indoor cycling shoe is a shoe designed specifically for indoor cycling. While most people think of outdoor cycling when they hear about pedal and shoe combinations for indoor cycling, it’s just as important to find a great pair of indoor cycling shoes.
The right pair of shoes can make or break your indoor cycling experience. And while most people think of outdoor cycling when they hear about pedal and shoe combinations for indoor training, it’s just as important to find a great pair of indoor cycling shoes.
If you want your indoor ride to be an enjoyable one. Indoor cycling shoes are usually lightweight, flexible, and have a grippy sole for use on indoor cycling pedals.
Outdoor Cycling Shoes
Outdoor cycling shoes are a type of cycling shoe designed for use on outdoor surfaces. Their soles are usually thicker and have more tread on the bottom for improved grip, and their uppers are often made of more durable materials.
You can wear outdoor cycling shoes indoors, but there are a few important things to keep in mind –
- Some indoor cycling shoes are made with a thin synthetic material on the upper, which will wear quickly when used outdoors.
- Outdoor cycling shoes are usually heavier than indoor cycling shoes, which can affect your indoor cycling experience.
- Some indoor cycling pedals are not compatible with outdoor cycling shoes, and may damage the surface of the shoe.
The Importance of Shoes for Indoor Cycling
Indoor cycling shoes are an important investment, especially if you don’t plan on cycling outdoors with your indoor bike. While some indoor cycling shoes could be worn with other athletic activities, they are not built for outdoor use.
Indoor cycling shoes are made with a thin synthetic material on the upper, which won’t stand up to the elements like leather or rubber would. This means your indoor cycling shoes will only last for a season or two at best if used for outdoor riding.
They’re also usually lightweight, which helps to keep your feet from getting tired on a long indoor ride. A good pair of indoor cycling shoes will have a good fit and be made from high-quality materials that will last for years.
What to Look for In an Indoor Cycling Shoe
When shopping for an indoor cycling shoe, it’s important to consider what you’ll be using them for. Make sure you look for a lightweight, minimalistic design that will hold up to the rigors of indoor cycling.
Indoor cycling shoes are usually made with synthetic materials, so be sure to choose a shoe with a synthetic upper. You’ll also want to look for a shoe with a wide toe box and a low heel-to-toe drop, as these elements will help keep your feet in the shoe while pedaling.
Indoor cycling shoes are not meant to be used outdoors, so make sure the sole of your shoe is made of a synthetic material that won’t wear quickly on outdoor surfaces.
How to find the right fit for your pedals
If you’re planning on using outdoor cycling shoes for indoor riding, it’s important to know if your pedals are compatible with the shoes you’re wearing.
Indoor cycling shoes usually have a thin sole made of synthetic material, which won’t damage the surface of a weighted pedal made for use with outdoor cycling shoes. If you’re not sure if the pedals on your indoor bike will work well with your shoe of choice, check the pedal surface for any damage or wear that could affect the shoe.
Which type of shoe should you buy?
There are many different types of indoor cycling shoes available, so you’ll have plenty of options if you decide to shop for shoes specifically designed for indoor cycling.
Indoor cycling shoes are usually lightweight, synthetic-material shoes with a low heel-to-toe drop and a wide toe box to accommodate the natural way that indoor cyclists pedal.
You can also wear outdoor cycling shoes indoors, but you’ll want to ensure that the soles on your shoes aren’t weighted, or they could damage the surface of your indoor cycling pedals.
FAQS
Can you use indoor cycling shoes on outdoor bikes?
Technically, you can use indoor cycling shoes on outdoor bikes. However, it’s not recommended. The indoor cycling shoes are designed for a spinning bike, which turns much slower than an outdoor bike. If you use indoor cycling shoes on an outdoor bike, you could lose your footing and fall off the bike.
Which outdoor cycling shoes are best for indoor cycling?
Most outdoor cycling shoes aren’t designed for indoor cycling. The main difference between indoor cycling shoes and outdoor cycling shoes is the clip mechanism. Outdoor cycling shoes don’t have a clip mechanism because they’re not used on a spinning bike. If you want to use outdoor cycling shoes indoors, you can buy indoor cycling cleats.
Can you use indoor cycling shoes for spin classes?
Technically, you can use indoor cycling shoes for spin classes. However, it’s recommended that you bring a different pair of shoes to class that are designed specifically for spin classes.
Can you use indoor cycling shoes for running?
No, indoor cycling shoes are not designed for running.
Conclusion
If you’re not sure what to look for in an indoor cycling shoe, or if you’re unsure if your outdoor cycling shoes will work on an indoor bike, it’s best to shop for indoor cycling shoes specifically designed for indoor cycling.
Indoor cycling shoes are usually lighter and more minimalistic than outdoor cycling shoes, and are made with synthetic materials that won’t wear out as quickly when used indoors. Indoor cycling shoes are also meant to be used exclusively indoors, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your indoor cycling shoes by wearing them outdoors.
If you’re an indoor cyclist and want to get the most out of your experience, it’s important to find the right shoes. Indoor cycling shoes are specially designed for use on indoor bikes, so shop wisely and find a pair that will last for years to come.
