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Indoor cycling is an awesome way to get an intense workout, and quickly. It’s evolved a lot over time—from basic stationary bikes that had a reputation for becoming expensive clothes hangers, to spinning, which revolutionized and popularized indoor cycling as a gym class. From the serious cyclists who put their bikes on trainers at home, to Soul Cycle and other cycling-centric studios, to Peloton, which brought it back to our own homes again, biking indoors is as popular—and better—than ever. Like any workout or sport, there are clothes to help you feel more comfortable, perform better, and look great.
Here are some of the best indoor cycling essentials:
This super soft, lightweight Cotapaxi Quito shirt, made of a dri-release fabric of 83% polyester, 11% tencel and 6% spandex, has an athletic fit, but stretches where it needs to. It breathes and has seamless armholes to reduce chafing, keeping you comfortable on the bike (as well as the road, trail, gym and mountain) and cool in the heat.
Although studio bike seats are more forgiving that real bicycle seats, you may still want a little padding to make things more comfortable. Terry’s new Studio Capri features an Italian-made chamois pad that’s significantly thinner, lighter, more breathable and ideal for indoor conditions. The capri’s fabric is ideal for the high cadence, high heat atmosphere of indoor riding with soft mesh panels wrapping around the knees for ventilation in key sweat zones.
Ditch the sneakers if you haven’t already. “Clipping in” with cycling shoes lets you transfer more power to the pedal and places your foot in the right position for a more efficient and better workout. Pearl Izumi’s All-Road v4 are versatile cycling shoes that are also great for indoor cycling. Available in men’s and women’s models, they are SPD compatible with a recessed cleat and a rubber sole, making it easier to walk in—and you won’t “click” or scratch the studios floors (like all cycling shoes, the cleats are sold separately).
Want the perfect outfit for after your cycling class? The Trouble Dress from Title Nine is no trouble at all to put on after a sweaty ride, or if you’ve showered and are still damp. With a long back zipper, you can just step into it, and the fabric zipper pull (think surf suit) makes it easy to zip up. Skip the sweaty sports bra or wriggling into a clean one—there’s a shelf bra with removable soft cups. Made of Title Nine’s polyester and spandex Nimblene fabric, there’s even a subtle zip pocket.
Outdoor Voices is all about “doing things” and their Rec Shorts, in the 7-inch Lined version ($55), have everything you want if your things include working out. The lightweight and sweat-wicking nylon and spandex material dries quickly when wet and has four-way stretch for movement, all attributes you want when you’re working up a sweat in an indoor cycling class. The UnderAir liner adds silky smooth coverage that doesn’t ride up. Plus, you can walk to and from the studio in a street-friendly style.
Sweaty Betty Kenza Crop Workout Tank
London-born Sweaty Betty, now 21 years old, is dedicated to making active wear for women. The super soft and lightweight Kenza Crop Workout Tank is stretchy, sweat-wicking and quick drying. Made for high-intensity, hot workouts, the thin polyester and elastane performance top is designed to layer over a sports bra.
New from Alo, known for clothes that work in the studio and on the street, the Velocity Bra can be worn solo or under another top. The high neck looks good but is also functional, as it’s made of a four-way stretch fabric to move with you. The bra also has moisture-wicking antimicrobial technology. Other features include removable cups, graphic band and a fun, strappy back.
Peloton Instructor Quote Collection
Peloton lets you participate in cycling classes—from your home—on fantastic bikes that provide helpful real-time statistics about your ride and output. Its instructors have practically become celebrities, with legions of fans that download their rides and may even follow them on social media. They have their own catch phrases to motivate riders and you can find favorites on men’s tee shirts and women’s tank tops and sports bras. Vice President of Fitness Programming and Head Instructor of Peloton Robin Arzon encourages riders to “Sweat with swagger!”
