What Should I Wear to SoulCycle?

What you wear to SoulCycle should help you feel comfortable and supported — not distracted. You don’t need special gear or a specific look. Breathable, fitted workout clothes that stay in place on the bike work best, so you can focus on the music, the movement, and the experience

The basics: what works best on the bike

Indoor rhythm riding involves a lot of movement. During a SoulCycle class you will come in and out of your seat and move with the beat of the music. Clothes that move with you make a big difference.

Most riders wear:

fitted leggings or bike shorts
a supportive sports bra
a lightweight, breathable top or tank

Fitted clothing helps prevent fabric from catching on the bike and makes it easier to move comfortably throughout class.

Why fitted clothing matters (especially your first class)

Loose or baggy clothes can bunch, shift, or feel distracting while riding. Fitted pieces:

stay in place during choreography and transitions in and out of the saddle
allow for better range of motion
wick sweat more effectively
help you stay focused on the experience

This isn’t about how things look — it’s about how they feel once you start moving.

What about shoes?

SoulCycle classes use clip-in cycling shoes, which attach directly to the bike pedals. If it’s your first class, renting shoes is completely normal. The studio team will help you clip in before class and explain how to clip out safely at the end.

You have two options:

rent cycling shoes at the studio
bring your own if you already have a compatible pair

SoulCycle bikes are designed for Delta-style cleats, which come standard on our rental shoes at the studio. Some riders use SPD cleats, but Delta cleats offer more surface area and stability, making them a comfortable option — especially for beginners.

If you have questions, the studio team can help you decide what works best.

Socks, layers, and sweat (the small details)

A few small things can make your ride more comfortable:

wear socks that cover your ankle to avoid rubbing
bring a light layer if you tend to get cold at the start
choose moisture-wicking fabrics if you sweat easily

Most riders warm up quickly once class begins.

What not to wear

A few items are best avoided on the bike:

long, loose pants or wide-leg bottoms
clothing with zippers or bulky hardware
slippery fabrics that don’t stay in place
heavy cotton that traps sweat

Comfort and function matter more than anything else.

Is there a “SoulCycle look”?

There’s no required look — and no pressure to match anyone else in the room.

That said, SoulCycle offers a curated retail experience designed specifically for the ride. Studios carry a mix of premium partner brands alongside Soul by SoulCycle, the in-house line created with movement, fit, and performance in mind.

Retail is available both in studios and online, and many riders appreciate having access to pieces designed for rhythm riding — especially as they settle into a regular routine.

What if I don’t have the “right” outfit yet?

That’s completely fine.

Many riders wear whatever athletic clothes they already own for their first few classes. Over time, people often learn what styles and fabrics feel best for their body and riding style.

There’s no expectation to show up perfectly outfitted — just ready to move.

Studio etiquette: helping the room feel like a sanctuary

SoulCycle studios are designed to be immersive, supportive spaces where everyone can focus on their ride. A few shared expectations help maintain that environment:

Keep shirts on during class. This helps ensure the studio feels comfortable and inclusive for all riders.
Silence and store phones before class begins. Phones can be distracting and break the shared focus of the room.
Avoid filming or taking photos during class. The ride is meant to be experienced in the moment.
Follow instructor cues and studio guidance. This helps keep the ride safe and flowing for everyone.
Respect personal space. Everyone rides differently, and that’s part of what makes the room work.

These guidelines aren’t about restriction — they’re about creating a space where people can show up, move, and be present without distraction or pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need special clothes for my first SoulCycle class?
No. Comfortable, fitted workout clothes you already own are enough to get started.

Can I wear shorts to SoulCycle?
Yes. Many riders wear bike shorts or fitted athletic shorts. Just make sure they’re snug enough to stay in place while riding.

Is it okay to wear a t-shirt?
Yes, as long as it’s not too loose or heavy. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics tend to feel best once you start sweating.

Do people dress up for SoulCycle?
Some riders enjoy expressing their style through workout clothes, others keep it simple. There’s no expectation either way — the focus is on the ride.

Can I buy SoulCycle apparel at the studio?
Yes. SoulCycle studios offer retail on-site, including Soul by SoulCycle and select partner brands. Apparel is also available online.

Ready to ride?

Wearing something comfortable and supportive is one less thing to think about — so you can focus on the music, the movement, and the experience. Book a class at your local studio and show up as you are. The rest comes together once you start riding.