What to Wear in a Spin Class & What You Shouldn't (+VIDEO)

By Robbie Ferri CPT

CPT & Indoor Cycling Instructor

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When it comes to indoor cycling, there’s a lot you need to learn. How to set your bike up, ride with the correct form, and manage food and drink on those longer rides.

As a very experienced spinning and indoor cycling instructor, I have been lucky enough to help many people on their journeys and have been able to give great advice to help.

Check out my YouTube video on what to wear in a spin class!

One of the most interesting issues I see all the time for many new spin enthusiasts is not understanding what they need to wear. In this article, we’re going to be telling you everything you need to know. We will be discussing:

Why Is The Right Clothing Important?
What To Wear While Spinning
What Not To Wear While Spinning

Why Is The Right Clothing Important?

Wearing the correct clothing when indoor cycling is vital. Not only does it make the experience much better, but it comes with a wide variety of other great benefits. Here’s what you need to know:

Comfort: The first thing to mention is comfort. Wearing proper cycling clothing makes it so much nicer on you and your behind. Sessions are going to be very long if you can’t get yourself comfortable, and it ruins the indoor cycling experience.
Functionality: Cycling clothing doesn’t just need to be comfortable, but it will also have to be functional. You are required to be sitting and standing, and those sprints require everything to stay in place. You have to be able to get around the bike easily and quickly.
Temperature Regulation: For the best performance, the ideal body temperature is 37 degrees. Clothing not only has to be comfortable and functional, but you need it to help keep you cool while digging into those pedals at full gas.

What To Wear While Spinning

So, what should you be wearing while in a spinning session? Here’s what I personally recommend!

1. Cycling Shorts

The first and most highly recommended piece of kit is a set of cycling shorts (check out our proposals on men or women shorts). Some come padded, and others don’t. We recommend padded over unpadded. These shorts are not only incredibly functional, but they also make riding super comfortable and keep you cool.

It’s important when using cycling shorts to not have any underwear under them. The pads are designed to soak up moisture and are much more hygienic than underwear. Using high-end brands such as ASSOS, Shimano, and Le Col goes a long way toward longevity.

2. Lightweight T-Shirt Or Sports Top

Next, we recommend a lightweight T-shirt or sports top. This is much better than a regular T-shirt because it allows functionality and it’s much more breathable. I used to wear normal T-shirts, but you get so warm after a while and become very uncomfortable.

It’s not rare to also see many people riding in sports tops such as sleeveless vests or even crop tops. As long as it’s breathable and comfortable, it shouldn’t matter. Bright colors are the best for standing out from the crowd.

3. Cycling Shoes Or Proper Trainers

You will want to have the correct footwear for the best experience while riding an indoor bike. Cycling shoes are the best you can use, especially the clip-in versions. You can also use trainers; if you do, we highly recommend having a strong, solid base to support your foot. Any cycling shoes or trainers are best paired with sports socks.

What Not To Wear While Spinning

As a spinning instructor for many years, I have seen many different people come to my classes. One thing that always surprised me was the outfit choices from beginners. Here are some of the craziest things I have seen!

Jumpers – If there’s one way to overheat quickly, it’s wearing a jumper.
Jeans – Not only very functional, hold heat inside and tighten when wet.
Bin Bags – People think the hotter you get, the more you sweat and the more weight loss. Not a great idea.
Sandals – Not only do they offer no support, but they also don’t protect your feet.
Hats – Although an excellent fashion accessory, unfortunately, it makes you very warm.

A Final Note

Wearing the correct clothing when it comes to indoor cycling makes such a big difference. It makes you perform better, and the session will be enjoyable as the comfort is so much higher. Thanks for taking the time to read this article; make sure to check out the video on the Girl Bike Love YouTube channel.

What to Wear in a Spin Class (& What You Should Not!)