20 Nov Indoor Cycling Gear Guide: What You Need to Get Started

One of the biggest and best perks of indoor cycling? You’re in complete control. No dodging cars, no waiting for green lights, no fuss. And for those new to cycling, it’s a safe space to get comfortable with the basics, from clipping in and out of pedals to practising out-of-saddle efforts, all without the pressure of an open road.

But before you dive in, you’ll want the right gear. As the spin class Melbourne loves, the Cycle Collective team can help make sure you get the most out of every ride.

Any old t-shirt will do? Wrong.

Technically, you could wear your regular gym top, cycling jersey, or whatever breathable gear you already own. But if you’re getting serious about indoor training, investing in a quality indoor cycling T-shirt can make a big difference to your comfort and performance.

Indoor cycling is a sweat fest. Without the cooling breeze, you’d get outside, and the heat builds up fast, leading to an uncomfortable, clingy workout. A good indoor training T-shirt is specially designed to handle this by wicking moisture away from your skin and maximising airflow. Hence, you stay cooler and more comfortable throughout your ride. These tops are usually made with ultra-light, highly breathable fabrics that let heat and moisture escape — keeping you drier and reducing that post-ride sogginess.

Some indoor training shirts are styled like road jerseys, with features like a full zip for even more airflow, while others are simple, looser-fitting tops that feel more like a gym shirt. No matter which style you go for, this piece of gear will make every sweaty session a bit more enjoyable. Plus, if you’re dedicated to indoor cycling, having the right kit makes the whole experience feel a bit more purposeful and motivating.

Planning on making indoor cycling a regular thing?

A good sports towel or sweatband is more essential than you might think. As we’ve noted, indoor training can get sweaty fast, and without a breeze to keep things cool, you’ll need a way to manage that sweat. That’s where a quality sports towel or sweatband comes in handy.

A sports towel is a bit of an MVP for indoor cycling. Unlike a standard towel, it’s usually lighter, easier to handle mid-ride, and designed to dry quickly, so it doesn’t get too heavy. This will help you stay comfortable by soaking up the sweat and keeping that salty moisture off the bike.

For those who prefer a low-maintenance option, a sweatband is a great alternative or addition to your setup. It’s small, easy to use, and perfect for quick touch-ups during intense rides without disrupting your flow. The towel and sweatband let you focus more on your workout and less on wiping down mid-ride, making them worth having close by for any dedicated indoor cyclist.

Indoor training shorts for comfort and practicality

Unlike traditional bib shorts with straps for added support on long road rides, indoor training shorts skip the straps and extra fabric, making them perfect for shorter, high-intensity indoor sessions where less really is more.

The design of indoor-specific shorts keeps it simple and functional. They’re usually made from lightweight, breathable fabric that quickly wicks away moisture, helping you stay cool and comfortable as you sweat. Since indoor rides don’t typically last for hours, these shorts don’t need heavy-duty padding or extras like gel inserts. Instead, they focus on providing the right balance of cushioning and flexibility, letting you move freely while preventing that dreaded soggy, overheated feeling, making each session feel a lot smoother. You’ll get the comfort and freedom to focus on your workout without dealing with any extra, unnecessary bulk.

Choosing the right shoes for comfort and performance

Unlike outdoor cycling shoes, indoor training shoes are often more minimalist, designed to handle the unique demands of a stationary workout where breathability and moisture management are key.

Good indoor cycling shoes are usually made with lightweight, mesh uppers that fit snugly like a sock. This design promotes airflow, keeping your feet cool and helping to wick away moisture, so you can say goodbye to that uncomfortable, sweaty-foot feeling mid-ride. Many indoor cycling shoes skip the fuss of laces or dials and use a simple Velcro strap, which is super convenient — just slip them on, strap up, and you’re good to go.

If you plan to cycle indoors regularly, investing in a pair of shoes designed for it will make every session feel smoother and more enjoyable. With less bulk and more breathability, these shoes let you focus on your ride, not your feet.

A few extra essentials

Hydration is key: two water bottles are ideal for longer or intense rides to avoid any mid-ride refills or dehydration. You may even want to consider an energy drink or pre-workout for extra endurance.

Wireless Bluetooth headphones are also a great addition. They let you enjoy music or podcasts tangle-free, and if you’re using virtual cycling apps, you can even chat with friends using models with built-in mics. These extras might not be strictly necessary, but they can give a touch more comfort and motivation!

Join the indoor cycling class Richmond loves today

Training at Cycle Collective in Richmond is all about maximising your fitness in a supportive, inclusive environment. Whether you’re aiming to boost your cycling performance, improve endurance, or simply stay fit, Cycle Collective’s structured sessions use proven, science-backed methods that work for every fitness level.

Our approach combines individualised training zones and RPM (Cadence) measurements so each session meets your specific needs. You’ll see real progress fast with non-impact, effective workouts that build strength, power, and speed. Plus, the group setting adds energy and motivation, making each ride productive and genuinely fun.