Product news: As a leading manufacturer in the bike industry, Shimano is always following new trends. This is also the case this time, with the IC5 and the IC3, Shimano is presenting its new indoor shoe segment for women. Because indoor cycling and spinning is becoming more and more popular, especially among women, and not just in winter.
Indoor bike activities such as Zwift, spinning courses, bike studios and online training programs are becoming increasingly popular, especially among women, and are a great alternative not only in winter. The intensive indoor loads also require special equipment.
Shoes are also important, because normal cycling shoes are not always the best choice, as heat can build up quickly and feet get unnecessarily hot. This is because outdoor shoes are designed to primarily protect the foot from different weather conditions. They are additionally insulated, have a water-repellent coating or are padded for extra comfort. When it comes to indoor cycling, however, the focus is on good ventilation to keep your feet cool. In addition, many spinning bikes are equipped with SPD pedal systems, so that conventional sports or street shoes are not suitable either. With its indoor models IC5 and IC3, Shimano has launched a new shoe segment for precisely these requirements.
The IC category stands for "Indoor Cycling" and contains two shoe models with different designs. Both have the SPD click system embedded in the sole, which has proven itself in the outdoor area for three decades.
Shimano IC5 indoor cycling shoes
The IC5 model has a breathable mesh upper and an L6 Boa coil for quick and precise adjustment of the shoe even during training. It comes with a road touring style flexible sole (stiffness 5 out of 12) that offers an excellent balance between power transfer to the pedal and comfort. The shoe is aimed at women with shoe sizes 36-43. With black, white and purple, three classic color variants are available. At just 292 g, it is only 60 g heavier than the RC9, Shimano's high-end racing bike model. The RRP is €119,95.
Shimano IC3 indoor cycling shoes
In contrast to the IC3, the IC5 impresses with a look that is reminiscent of a traditional training shoe. The upper is a mix of leather and breathable mesh material. As with the IC5, the shoe can be adjusted quickly and precisely using the Boa closure system. The sole with a stiffness value of 2 out of 12 is designed for comfort on and off the bike, similar to the outdoor models from the city touring range. The shoe can also be used when walking to or within the gym without any problems. The weight is 326 g. The RRP is €119,95.
“The majority of our participants know that they train more efficiently when the shoe and pedal are connected, they are clicked in, so to speak. The connection ensures a correct and stable position on the pedal, so that the knees and hips are not put under stress and the risk of injury is reduced. I personally like a shoe that is comfortable, looks good and at the same time offers me good walking comfort. If it also convinces in terms of ventilation, nothing stands in the way of a sweaty spinning session.” – Lorena Isasi, Shimano Ambassador and spinning trainer at the Las Canas Fitness Center
Both Shimano indoor cycling shoes are expected to be available in stores in autumn 2019.