Solo sessions at the gym or lonely runs in the local park are slowly becoming a thing of the past – group exercise the new craze sweeping the nation. From organized park runs, to the revolutionary Zumba class – organized, fast paced, social workouts are the new way to get fit, and have fun while doing so.
Spin classes fall into this category of fast paced, fitness fun – a group of 10-30 individuals pedaling like crazy for up to an hour – the most intense of classes incorporating strict intervals to hone power and build muscle. The classes are often lead by an experienced instructor, a member of staff that will shout out commands from the front, while also controlling the all-important playlist – techno dance music a staple of most sessions.
While the classes may take place aboard a static bicycle – the sessions aren’t just limited to cyclists, nor those experienced in the art of two-wheeled machines – these are classes open to everyone with all manner of different kit. Every rider, no matter their experience level, or overall fitness, will be strapped into the pedals – toe clips or rigid cleats the most common fixings. Some may opt to spin in their standard trainers – but take it from us – they’re doing it wrong. You’ll need a rigid sole to maintain efficient power transfer – a stiff sole also helping to avoid any fatiguing injuries notorious with normal, weak-bottomed shoes.
The spin class is swiftly becoming a staple workout session, offered in abundance by most gyms across the nation. A fast paced, social exercise craze – the spin class offers an ‘all-round’ fitness gain that many other workouts struggle to provide – but how on earth do you pedal those static bikes and which shoes are the best for the job?
Women's Spinning Shoes
1. New Balance Women's WX09v1 Cycling Shoe
The popular, sleek trainer brand have expanded their range into new markets – the 09v1 Cycling Shoe catering for hobby cyclists with a desire to hit up the local spin class. The synthetic textile construction of the upper material is extremely breathable and lightweight – allowing air to circulate freely and keep your feet nice and fresh.
The sole is made of a rubber material which may not be as rigid as road-specific cycling shoes – but it does pack a punch in the versatility department, this pair of New Balance trainers suitable for both ON the bike, and OFF the bike. Complete with a lightweight EVA midsole, the foot fits snug into each shoe – avoiding any free space that may detrimentally effect power transfer with each pedal stroke.
The 09v1 Training shoes are also SPD compatible – a real bonus if your local spin machines require cleats and rigid fixings. A small plate reveals the easy-to-access cleat points, the ability to run the shoe as a flat sole or cleated sole one of its biggest selling points.
New Balance is a popular brand, and with well-known labels clearly comes large price points, the 09v1 Training shoes falling into the uppermost expense bracket. But, considering its functionality, style and breathability – this is a shoe that can be worn both outside the gym, and inside, across a wide array of different workout sessions.
2. Louis Garneau Women's Multi Air Flex Fitness Shoes
Branded as a designated fitness shoe, that can also be take out onto the local MTB trails – this new trainer from Louis Garneau champions both comfort and rigidity – all at a more than affordable price point.
The Multi Flex Air outsole is well ventilated and allows a lot of airflow, preventing overheating while also allowing for good toe flexion while walking on solid ground. As is the standard with Louis Garneau shoes, the Multi Air Flex provide a characteristic, roomy fit inside the shoe – a HRS-80 retention in the heel cup ensuring the foot stays firmly in place.
Utilizing a three hook and loop, Velcro strap system – the Multi Air Flex shoes aren’t the greatest at contouring to each specific foot, but they are incredibly easy to adjust while riding – no laces to get in the way of the drivetrain.
Like many MTB/fitness shoe hybrids, the Multi Air Flex shoes are SPD compatible – allowing for a rigid fit between rider and pedal. At an affordable price point, this is the perfect entry-level shoe to use at both the local spin class, and out on the weekend trail. The shoes have a glowing rapport from customers.
3. Giro Whynd Bike Shoes
Masking itself as a standard trainer, the Giro Whynd is a perfect choice for those looking to use their footwear across a wide range of different workout sessions. SPD compatible, these shoes can be used as both flat soled cycling shoes, or cleated versions on the spin machines – optimizing power transfer from rider to pedal.
The shoe is constructed from Giro’s unique, microfiber upper, complete with mesh inserts to keep the foot aerated and free of any moisture build-up. Like the New Balance trainers above, an EVA rubber sole isn’t as rigid as some of Giro’s other competitors – but it does offer supreme functionality, the Giro Whynds able to tread on solid ground compared to their road-specific counterparts.
Utilizing a classic lace fit system, like the rest of Giro’s shoe range, the Whynds achieve and unparalleled level of fit – the contouring achieved by laces incomparable to Velcro and ratchet straps, even the award-winning BOA fit system. The upper, microfiber material is also extremely water resistant – the Giro Whynds perfect footwear to also take out on the muddy, MTB trail.
Giro shoes are renowned for their incredible construction and durability – what they do lack, however, is an affordable, entry-level variant – Giro making no compromises when making their shoes, not even a compromise on superior materials to construct a cheaper shoe. Despite their expensive price, their quality is second to none – most of their models offering spare parts and warranty in case of wear and tear.
4. Mavic Women's Ksyrium Elite II Shoes
The Mavic Ksyrium Elite II Women’s road shoe is a value-packed marvel that fits the demands of every road cyclist – from amateur to seasoned pro. The Energy Carbon Comp outsole features a composite construction of super-rigid fiberglass, nylon and carbon fiber – keeping weight low and stiffness high.