Spinning shoes

[gummybear]

I've recently become reintroduced to spinning and I am kind of getting hooked. Currently I spin twice a week, so I am trying to figure out if I should invest in spinning shoes. 

Do they make a big difference?
How often do they get replaced? Do they have a "mileage" like running shoes?
Is there a cost-effective "entry level" shoe you would recommend?

[Susie]

You want "cycling" shoes, not spinning.

Yes, I think they make a significant difference. Not quite as much as they do on the road on a bike, but I would not bother attending a spin class without my cycling shoes now that I've been using them for a few years. You'll need to know what kind of pedals are on the spin bikes at your gym. Most gym spin bike pedals I have encountered are compatible with the 2-post SPD style cleats, but you should confirm. Certain shoe styles accommodate different types of cleats. I would recommend going to a bike shop rather than trying to pick out the right cleat and shoe combination and installing the cleat on the shoe on the right spot yourself for your first pair.

I have 2 pairs of cycling shoes, one that I got in 2011, and they have SPD cleats. I used them for a couple years for spinning and with my road bike. Then I think in 2013 I got new pedals on my road bike and new shoes (a larger 3 post style cleat). I haven't gotten rid of the old shoes though; I still use them for spinning and with my commuter bike, which has double-sided pedals (SPD on one side, flat on the other). I figure I'll know "worn out" when I see it, but it isn't based on miles like a running shoe.

[gummybear]

Jun 29, 2015 13:04:42 GMT -5 Susie said:

You want "cycling" shoes, not spinning.

Yes, I think they make a significant difference. Not quite as much as they do on the road on a bike, but I would not bother attending a spin class without my cycling shoes now that I've been using them for a few years. You'll need to know what kind of pedals are on the spin bikes at your gym. Most gym spin bike pedals I have encountered are compatible with the 2-post SPD style cleats, but you should confirm. Certain shoe styles accommodate different types of cleats. I would recommend going to a bike shop rather than trying to pick out the right cleat and shoe combination and installing the cleat on the shoe on the right spot yourself for your first pair.

I have 2 pairs of cycling shoes, one that I got in 2011, and they have SPD cleats. I used them for a couple years for spinning and with my road bike. Then I think in 2013 I got new pedals on my road bike and new shoes (a larger 3 post style cleat). I haven't gotten rid of the old shoes though; I still use them for spinning and with my commuter bike, which has double-sided pedals (SPD on one side, flat on the other). I figure I'll know "worn out" when I see it, but it isn't based on miles like a running shoe.

LOL, sorry Cycling shoes. I spin two places, one has Schwinn Carbon Blue and the other has Keiser M3s (I think that is the model). As far as I know, they are compatible because most of my friends go both places.

Thank you! I am def. interested in getting some bc I hear that doing it in running sneakers can lead to quad imbalance, which I already deal with bc I am, at heart, a runner. 

[irene adler]

The rei outlet usually has some great prices, and they are on ebates!

(here's my referral link www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=1FLFlUFMQ2i8NbJHkD8dGg%3D%3D&eeid=26471)

Keiser m3 use universal SPD clips--it is best to purchase those separately at a local bike store and have them put them on the shoes to make sure they are placed properly.  Have fun! 

[runblondie26]

I went into a cycling store and asked them for an inexpesive shoe that would work with the spin bikes at the gym down the street. They offered me a pair on clearance and put the little clip things on the bottom for me.

Obviously not a real cyclist here and have zero expertise to explain what they sold me.  I feel a little more educated having read the previous responses.

They've served me well for 4 years now. I like having the stiffer bottom than wearing my running shoes and being able to get more power on the "up" stroke (or whatever it's called).

ETA: I know that response wasn't helpful, but thought I'd chime in  I was intimidated to get a pair of shoes, but having someone knowledgeable at the store to walk me through it made it easy.

[sitnspin]

Sierra Trading post has excellent prices, BUT I would recommend getting fitted at a local bike shop.  I also recommend having them install the SPD cleats so that you are properly aligned.

You want the cleat to be over the widest part of the bottom of your shoe.  Spinner(r) bikes pedals are designed to have the base of your knee intersect the cleat, or widest part of your shoe (if you wear a sneaker).  The instructor can use a plumb line to check that, but installation of the cleat is the key.

[sadlebred]

Everything everyone said.

Go to your local bike shop, buy the shoes, and have them help you put the cleats on.

Going to spin once or twice/week you will probably get 10 years out of your shoes. 2 years is average for me for mountain bike shoes; 4 years is average for road cycling shoes I wear 3-5 days/week. My mountain bike shoes tend to get torn up before the wear out. With road shoes, when I start getting "hot spots" on my feet that can't get rid of I know it's time for new shoes.

[fdcritt76]

I used to spin, and the shoes made a big difference for me. That being said, I have since started a boot camp regimen and no longer spin. I have some Shimano spin shoes size 7.5 that I no longer use. Let me know if you're interested.

[gummybear]

Jun 30, 2015 6:48:01 GMT -5 fdcritt76 said:

I used to spin, and the shoes made a big difference for me. That being said, I have since started a boot camp regimen and no longer spin. I have some Shimano spin shoes size 7.5 that I no longer use. Let me know if you're interested.

Aw thanks! I am a size 6. I appreciate the offer though

[irene adler]

Jun 30, 2015 6:48:01 GMT -5 fdcritt76 said:

I used to spin, and the shoes made a big difference for me. That being said, I have since started a boot camp regimen and no longer spin. I have some Shimano spin shoes size 7.5 that I no longer use. Let me know if you're interested.

If you are looking to sell them, post them in the sticky thread above!

I bought my first pair off a flyer at the gym, so that's an option as well.