Spin Class Starter Pack: Everything You Need to Level Up Your Ride
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Spin class is not for the faint of heart—or the unprepared. Among the heart-pounding playlists, the flashing neon lights, and the hyperactive choreography, you'll want gear that keeps you comfortable and locked in. From cycling shoes that can keep pace with your power intervals to reusable water bottles that won't slow you down, I've rounded up everything you need to crush your next spin class—whether you're new to the saddle or a seasoned rider.
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The knit material and ventilated toe area give these shoes a socklike fit that hugs your feet while remaining breathable. Thanks to the BOA lacing system, you can make micro-adjustments, even while on the bike—a perk you don't get with a Velcro system. The one-button release also makes it quick and easy to get in and out of these shoes, which is a major perk if you tend to run late to class. They're compatible with both Delta and SPD cleats, and they come with Delta cleats, saving you from the extra purchase.
Care Instructions: After your ride, wipe them down with a damp sponge or cloth. Stuff the insides with paper to maintain their shape. If the outsole gets dirty, a quick scrub with a soft brush should do the trick. Let them air dry.
Delta cleats are the best for beginners, and they're my go-to too. Designed with a three-hole arrangement, this set is meant for optimal stability. They keep your feet secure so you don't have to worry about falling off your bike during some of those questionable choreography moves instructors love to throw in. To unlock, these cleats require a rotational foot movement, twisting your heel inward or outward, for safe disengagement. The built-in memory positioning is another handy feature, letting you save your cleat alignment when it's time to snap in a new pair.
These cleats pair with most Shimano SPD pedals, making them a reliable choice for most spin classes. Built from heat-treated forged steel, they're tough enough to handle the grind of daily sessions. You can adjust the spring tension to find your ideal resistance. But the standout feature here is the 13-degree release angle that lets you easily unclip after class—and without needing to over-rotate your heel to free yourself.
Here are some of the best for indoor cycling, pulled from our guides to the Best Heart Rate Monitors and Best Fitness Trackers. Photograph: Amazon; Getty Images
The Polar H10 is our favorite heart rate monitor for a couple of reasons. Chest straps, which place EKG sensors nearest to your heart, beat wrist-based monitors when it comes to precision. Contributor Michael Sawh especially loves the Polar H10 because of its buckle-style strap, which is way less irritating than the standard loop-and-hook connector. It's also designed with grippy silicone dots on the strap to keep it firmly in place no matter how much you sweat. Other features include built-in memory to store workout data and ANT+ connectivity to sync with stationary bikes. It's also waterproof, and the battery lasts for about a year.
The Fitbit Charge 6 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) strikes a balance between affordability and accessibility. The redesigned app offers features like skin temperature readings, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, and YouTube Music compatibility—if you have a premium subscription. Editor Adrienne So says the heart rate tracking is more accurate with the improved algorithm, and the battery lasts over a week. Many of its features are locked behind the $10-per-month Fitbit Premium subscription, but you can take advantage of its basic functionality without it. For more options, check out our guide to the Best Fitbits.
The 4iiii Viiiiva chest strap is our budget-friendly pick for heart rate monitors. At just $56, it delivers EKG-level accuracy and versatility for riders who may switch up their spin bike or studio. Its Bluetooth connectivity and ANT+ bridge let it send data from ANT+ devices, like indoor trainers, to your phone (iPhone or Android)—a major perk for Zwift users. The IPX7 rating means it can handle a post-spin soak in water (up to one meter for 30 minutes), but you'll still need to hand-wash it.
Don't be underestimated by the Lululemon 3-in-1 Gym Bag Duffle's compact design; it's deceptively spacious with thoughtful compartments to keep your gear tidy. It features a separate shoe compartment to stash your cycling cleats (or sneakers), a drawstring pouch for sweaty clothes, and a side zippered pocket that holds a 34-ounce water bottle. Carry it by the handles, sling it crossbody with the detachable strap, or repurpose the strap to haul a yoga mat if you're mixing workouts.
Carry this duffle as a handbag, backpack, or crossbody bag, depending on how you commute to your studio. It's packed with compartments: a front zippered pocket for essentials, a shoe section, a wet/dry pocket for sweaty towels or wet toiletries, and a mesh bag for post-workout clothes. There's also a main compartment if you're commuting straight from work, plus zippered sections for tech essentials like an iPad and headphones. The AirFit Hyperbag is waterproof, dust-resistant, and easy to clean with a simple wipe-down.
Spin class might not be hot yoga, but you'll still break a sweat. A workout towel is essential to keep the handlebars from getting slippery, your palms dry for a better grip, and sweat from streaming into your eyes mid-sprint. The Alo Yoga Performance No Sweat Hand Towel is soft and gentle on the skin, and it's quick-drying, too. It's a compact towel that I would normally wish to be larger, but it's the perfect size to tuck into your bike's storage slot.
For spin class, I like bottles I can easily pop open and close during five-second breaks. I've highlighted a couple of favorites below, but our Best Reusable Water Bottles guide has more recommendations.
The Owala FreeSip makes water breaks efficient; you can sip or swig with its dual-action spout, so no fumbling with the cap mid-ride. The built-in straw minimizes the chances of spilling water all over yourself while you're pedaling out of the saddle (been there). My one gripe with this particular model is that the push button can occasionally get stuck, but it's a minor flaw in an otherwise ideal design.
The 25-ounce Yeti Yonder (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is another perfect bottle for spin class. It's lightweight—made from 50 percent recycled plastic—and drop-resistant. Also, if you somehow drop it mid-ride, it won't startle the entire class the way a heavy-duty stainless steel bottle would. BPA-free, dishwasher-safe, and it's covered by a five-year warranty.
Hydro Flask's customizability makes it a top contender for any activity, including spin class. Pair yours with the Standard Mouth Flex Straw Cap ($15) for quick sips. You'll definitely hear it hit the ground if you drop it, but at least you can count on it to survive the fall. Hydro Flask offers several types of bottles and caps, including a tumbler, but it will most likely not fit into the bike's bottle holder.
I have owned variations of these biker shorts for five years now, and they're still among my favorites for cycling. They're buttery soft and lightweight yet squat-proof, so you don't have to worry about any see-through mishaps. The high-rise waistband doesn't roll whatsoever, and Nike's Dri-Fit tech is sweat-wicking. Available in sizes XXS to 3XL (tall options in select colors).
Your spin shoes will stink—it's inevitable. This multipurpose spray is a lifesaver for more than just shoes, though; it works on spin bikes (if you've got one at home), gym bags, and other gym equipment. It masks odors and helps extend the life of your gear. Plus, it's nontoxic, non-irritating, and free of harsh chemicals like ammonium compounds, chlorine, and artificial fragrances.
Sometimes, the music is too loud. For more earplugs recommendations, check out our guide to the Best Earplugs for Concerts, Bedtime, and Anytime.
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