10 Best Cycling Shoes 2026 in the United States

The TIEM Slipstream is designed primarily for indoor cycling, making it a solid choice for riders who spend most of their time on spin bikes or in studio classes. Thanks to its engineered mesh upper, the shoe offers good breathability, keeping your feet cooler during intense sessions. Its slip-on style with a single strap closure system makes it easy to put on and take off, which is convenient for quick transitions in class.

The sole includes a durable nylon cycling shank that provides adequate stiffness for power transfer, but it’s not as rigid as high-end cycling shoes meant for outdoor road or mountain biking. The rubber outsole with a recessed SPD cleat area helps you walk around the studio without much slipping, though this shoe only supports 2-bolt SPD cleats, so it won’t work with 3-bolt Delta cleats used by some indoor bikes. Fit-wise, TIEM suggests ordering a half size smaller than your normal athletic shoe for the best hold, which is important since a secure fit impacts pedaling efficiency and comfort.

These shoes are relatively lightweight, and the materials suggest they won’t feel heavy on your feet. If you’re looking for a casual, breathable, and easy-to-wear indoor cycling shoe with basic performance features, the TIEM Slipstream is a good fit. However, if you need a shoe with maximum sole stiffness, advanced closure systems, or compatibility with various cleat types for outdoor cycling, you might want to explore other options.

The Peloton Altos Cycling Shoes are designed specifically for Peloton Bike and Bike+ users, featuring delta-compatible cleats that make clipping in and out easy and secure. They suit riders with narrow to normal foot widths and come true to size, offering a fit similar to running shoes with enough toe wiggle room and solid arch support. The single hook and loop strap closure makes these shoes straightforward to put on and take off, which is convenient for riders who want quick adjustments without fuss.

Made from breathable jacquard mesh and waffle mesh interiors, they provide good ventilation to keep your feet cool during workouts. The glass-filled nylon sole strikes a balance between comfort and stiffness, helping transfer pedal power efficiently without feeling too rigid for indoor use. Weighing around 3 pounds per pair, they are relatively lightweight, though not the lightest on the market. While ideal for Peloton equipment, these shoes are compatible with other bikes requiring delta cleats, adding some versatility.

Although the single strap closure may not offer the same secure fit as multi-strap or dial systems preferred by more advanced cyclists, the shoe is mainly tailored for indoor cycling rather than outdoor rides. For those primarily using a Peloton Bike and valuing a comfortable, breathable shoe with easy entry and a reliable clip-in system, the Altos provide good value. However, if more precise fit adjustments or heavy outdoor cycling are priorities, exploring other options is advisable.