If you are a regular to spin classes and indoor cycling you might have been wishing for an indoor-specific cycling shoe, particularly if you notice your feet getting very hot when the temperature’s turned up on a long, stationary bike ride.
This also might never have occurred to you as being a problem but, either way, Shimano has the answer with its new Indoor Cycling (IC) footwear.
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Shimano’s IC5 and IC3 indoor cycling shoes are claimed to be designed for maximum ventilation while remaining practical and comfortable. This makes them just the ticket for spin classes and winter turbo trainer sessions.
Each of the two new models has a distinct style and purpose.
The 292g (claimed, per shoe) IC5 is closer to a typical cycling shoe styling and features an airy mesh upper with a reasonably flexible sole (“rated 5/12 for stiffness” according to Shimano).
Meanwhile the 326g (claimed, per shoe) IC3 has a sports-shoe look and is constructed from “sections of breathable leather and mesh”, with the sole aimed squarely at comfort with its 2/12 stiffness rating.
In other words, these aren’t all-out performance shoes, but probably just right for less-frequent cyclists looking to benefit from clipping-in during an indoors workout.
Both models have been developed with female riders in mind, which is reflected in the size range of 36 to 44 (European sizing). They also both feature Boa closure dials to help quickly get in and out of the shoes.
Finally, and quite importantly, they are made for SPD cleats and pedals (as opposed to SPD-SL, which are more commonly found on road shoes), which sit in a recess in the sole, because Shimano says SPD pedals are more likely to be found on spin bikes.
If you are looking ahead to a long season of spin, it’s worth noting that Shimano isn’t the only brand making indoor-specific bike kit. Velocio and Madison both sell clothing designed to be light and extra-capable when it comes to dealing with sweat.
Shimano IC5 indoor cycling shoes
- Sizes: 36–44
- Colours: Black, White, Navy with Pink
- Price: £99.99 / €119.95
Shimano IC3 indoor cycling shoes
- Sizes: 36–44
- Colours: Black, White, Green
- Price: €119.95
