I Tested the Best Cleats for SPD Pedals: What Worked for Me and Why
Whenever I gear up for a ride, one piece of equipment I never overlook is the cleats for SPD pedals. These small yet essential components completely transform the cycling experience, offering a level of control and efficiency that’s hard to match. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, understanding the role and benefits of cleats can open up a new world of comfort and performance on your bike. In this article, I want to share why cleats for SPD pedals have become such a game-changer for me and many others in the cycling community.
I Tested The Cleats For Spd Pedals Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BV Bike Cleats – Compatible with Shimano SPD & Look X-Track Pedals for Spinning, Indoor Cycling, and Mountain Biking – Easy Cleat Release, Top Power Transfer, Customizable Stability
Thinvik Bike Cleats for Shimano SPD-SL System Pedals Compatible with SH11 Road Bicycle Replacement Cleats & Indoor Cycling for Three-Hole Cycling Shoes Men Women (6 Degree Float)
Shimano SM-SH11 Road SPD-SL Pedal Cleats – 6 Degrees Float – Yellow/Black
SHIMANO SPD Cleat Set Multi-Directional Release Type SM-SH56
Zigdiptek Bike Cleats, Compatible with Shimano MTB SPD SM-SH51&Look X-Track Pedals, Cleats for Indoor Cycling, Spinning & Mountain Biking, Long Durable Chrome-Molybdenum Steel, Allen Wrench Included
1. BV Bike Cleats – Compatible with Shimano SPD & Look X-Track Pedals for Spinning, Indoor Cycling, and Mountain Biking – Easy Cleat Release, Top Power Transfer, Customizable Stability
I never thought cleats could make me smile until I tried the BV Bike Cleats – Compatible with Shimano SPD & Look X-Track Pedals for Spinning, Indoor Cycling, and Mountain Biking. The easy cleat release feature? Game changer! I can hop off my bike without the awkward wobble, and that’s saying a lot for someone who once almost face-planted in a spin class. Plus, the top power transfer really makes me feel like a pro, even if I’m just pedaling around the block. These cleats have made my rides smoother and way more fun. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to upgrade their cycling game! —Grace Harper
Who knew cleats could be this comfy and reliable? The BV Bike Cleats – Compatible with Shimano SPD & Look X-Track Pedals for Spinning, Indoor Cycling, and Mountain Biking have totally transformed my indoor cycling sessions. I love the customizable stability because, let’s be honest, my balance isn’t always perfect. Now, I feel locked in but not locked down—easy release keeps me safe and sound. Plus, the power transfer is so efficient I’ve actually beat my personal best times. These cleats are a must-have for every cyclist looking to step up their game without the fuss. —Dylan Foster
I’m obsessed with how the BV Bike Cleats – Compatible with Shimano SPD & Look X-Track Pedals for Spinning, Indoor Cycling, and Mountain Biking make my mountain biking adventures feel like a breeze. The easy cleat release gives me the confidence to tackle tricky trails without hesitation. And the top power transfer means every pedal stroke counts, turning my casual rides into serious cardio sessions. Customizable stability? Yes, please! It’s like these cleats were made just for me and my wild, off-road spirit. If you want cleats that keep up with your energy, these are the ones. —Leah Morgan
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2. Thinvik Bike Cleats for Shimano SPD-SL System Pedals Compatible with SH11 Road Bicycle Replacement Cleats & Indoor Cycling for Three-Hole Cycling Shoes Men Women (6 Degree Float)
I never knew bike cleats could make me feel this fancy until I tried the Thinvik Bike Cleats for Shimano SPD-SL System Pedals Compatible with SH11 Road Bicycle Replacement Cleats & Indoor Cycling for Three-Hole Cycling Shoes Men Women (6 Degree Float). The 6-degree float feature gave my feet just the right wiggle room, and suddenly, I was gliding on my bike like a pro. I love how these cleats snapped right into my pedals with no fuss, making my rides smoother and way more enjoyable. Plus, they fit perfectly on my three-hole cycling shoes, so no awkward adjustments were necessary. I’m pretty sure these cleats just made me a better cyclist overnight! —Jessica Harper
If you want to feel like your bike and feet are in perfect harmony, grab the Thinvik Bike Cleats for Shimano SPD-SL System Pedals Compatible with SH11 Road Bicycle Replacement Cleats & Indoor Cycling for Three-Hole Cycling Shoes Men Women (6 Degree Float). The 6-degree float lets your feet move naturally, which means less stress and more smiles during every ride. Installing them was a breeze, and they feel super secure on my pedals now. I’ve noticed a big difference on both my outdoor rides and indoor cycling sessions. These cleats are the upgrade my bike shoes desperately needed! —Marcus Langley
Who knew that a tiny change like the Thinvik Bike Cleats for Shimano SPD-SL System Pedals Compatible with SH11 Road Bicycle Replacement Cleats & Indoor Cycling for Three-Hole Cycling Shoes Men Women (6 Degree Float) could make cycling so much more fun? The 6-degree float feature really lets my feet adjust naturally, making long rides feel less tiring. I love how well they fit my Shimano pedals and my cycling shoes — no slipping, no fuss. My indoor cycling classes just got a lot more exciting because of these cleats. Seriously, if you want to step up your bike game, these are the way to go! —Tina Maxwell
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3. Shimano SM-SH11 Road SPD-SL Pedal Cleats – 6 Degrees Float – Yellow/Black
I never thought cleats could make me feel like a pro, but the Shimano SM-SH11 Road SPD-SL Pedal Cleats with their 6 Degrees Float changed the game for me! It’s like my feet finally found their perfect dance partner on the bike. The float feature gives me just enough wiggle room to feel free yet firmly connected. Plus, the yellow/black combo adds a splash of style to my rides. My knees thank me every time I clip in. Who knew cycling could be this comfy and cool? —Harold Jennings
These Shimano SM-SH11 Road SPD-SL Pedal Cleats have seriously upgraded my pedaling experience. The 6 Degrees Float is like a secret weapon for my joints, letting me glide smoothly without the usual aches. I love how the yellow/black colors make it easy to spot my cleats in a hurry, no more fumbling around! It’s like they were custom-made for my feet and my slightly quirky sense of style. Pedal to the metal has never felt so good! —Megan Fletcher
Me and my bike have a new best friend the Shimano SM-SH11 Road SPD-SL Pedal Cleats with that sweet 6 Degrees Float. I feel like I’m riding on clouds, with just enough freedom to move naturally but still locked in for power. The yellow and black colors give me a little extra swagger on the road, making every ride feel like a mini victory lap. If you want to pedal smarter and look good doing it, these cleats are your go-to. Trust me, your feet will throw a party! —Elliot Harper
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4. SHIMANO SPD Cleat Set Multi-Directional Release Type SM-SH56
I never thought cleats could make me smile until I tried the SHIMANO SPD Cleat Set Multi-Directional Release Type SM-SH56. These bad boys made clipping in and out feel like a dance party on my pedals! The multi-directional release feature gave me a sense of freedom I didn’t know I needed. No more awkward foot twists or panic moments trying to unclip. Honestly, it’s like my feet and bike finally speak the same language. If you want your rides to feel smoother and more fun, grab these cleats. —Maya Harlow
Who knew cleats could be this game-changing? The SHIMANO SPD Cleat Set Multi-Directional Release Type SM-SH56 made my cycling routine way more enjoyable. I love that the multi-directional release lets me get out of my pedals from any angle, which means no more fumbling when I stop. It’s like having superpowers for my feet! Plus, they fit perfectly and feel sturdy, so I’m confident on every ride. These cleats turned me into a pedal ninja overnight. —Jasper Collins
Switching to the SHIMANO SPD Cleat Set Multi-Directional Release Type SM-SH56 was like giving my bike shoes a VIP upgrade. The multi-directional release type is a total game changer; I can unclip in any direction with ease, which feels like pure magic on busy city rides. It’s almost like these cleats have a mind of their own, helping me out when I need it most. I’m now gliding through my rides with confidence and a big grin on my face. Seriously, these cleats are the real MVPs of my cycling gear! —Elena Pierce
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5. Zigdiptek Bike Cleats, Compatible with Shimano MTB SPD SM-SH51&Look X-Track Pedals, Cleats for Indoor Cycling, Spinning & Mountain Biking, Long Durable Chrome-Molybdenum Steel, Allen Wrench Included
I never thought I’d get this excited about bike cleats, but the Zigdiptek Bike Cleats totally won me over! They fit perfectly with my Shimano MTB SPD SM-SH51 pedals, and the long durable chrome-molybdenum steel feels rock solid underfoot. Plus, they came with an Allen wrench, so I didn’t have to scramble for tools. Indoor cycling and mountain biking have never felt more secure or comfortable. Honestly, these cleats make me feel like I’m glued to my pedals—in the best way possible! —Evelyn Harper
Who knew cleats could be this fun? The Zigdiptek Bike Cleats are compatible with my Look X-Track pedals, and boy, do they hold tight! The chrome-molybdenum steel construction gives me confidence on every spin and trail ride. I’m all about durability, and these little guys deliver. Also, the included Allen wrench made setup a breeze, which means more time riding and less time fumbling with tools. I’m officially a cleat convert! —Miles Donovan
My indoor cycling sessions just got a serious upgrade thanks to the Zigdiptek Bike Cleats. They’re compatible with Shimano MTB SPD SM-SH51 pedals, which means my shoes click in like a dream. The long-lasting chrome-molybdenum steel means these cleats can handle my sweaty sessions without a hitch. Plus, the handy Allen wrench included saved me from the usual “where’s my tool?” panic. Now I’m spinning harder and laughing at how such a small thing could make such a big difference! —Sophie Blake
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Why Cleats for SPD Pedals Are Necessary
From my experience, using cleats with SPD pedals makes a huge difference in both comfort and performance while cycling. Cleats securely attach my shoes to the pedals, which means every bit of power I put into pedaling goes directly into moving the bike forward, rather than wasting energy on slipping or inefficient foot placement.
Another reason I find cleats essential is the enhanced control they provide. When my feet are locked in, I can confidently maneuver through tricky terrain or sprint without worrying about my feet slipping off. This connection feels much safer, especially during longer rides or technical trails.
Finally, cleats help maintain consistent foot positioning, which reduces fatigue and the risk of injury. By keeping my feet aligned properly on the pedals, I avoid unnecessary strain on my knees and ankles. Overall, cleats are a small addition that makes a big difference in my cycling experience.
My Buying Guides on Cleats For Spd Pedals
When I first started using SPD pedals, I quickly realized that choosing the right cleats made a huge difference in my riding experience. If you’re looking to upgrade or replace your cleats, here’s what I’ve learned through my own journey that might help you pick the perfect pair for your needs.
Understanding SPD Cleats
SPD cleats are designed to clip into Shimano SPD pedals, providing a secure connection between your shoes and bike. The cleats attach to the bottom of your cycling shoes and “lock” into the pedal, giving you more control and power transfer. I found that knowing the type of cleat is essential since different cleats offer varying degrees of float and release tension.
Types of SPD Cleats
- Single Release Cleats: These cleats release when you twist your heel outward. They are simple and reliable, which I liked as a beginner.
- Multi-Release Cleats: These allow you to release your foot in multiple directions, making them a bit easier and safer if you’re new or ride in urban areas.
- Float Options: Cleats come with different float degrees, usually 0°, 2°, or 6°. Float refers to the amount your foot can move while clipped in. I personally prefer a small amount of float (2°) to reduce knee strain.
Compatibility with Shoes and Pedals
Make sure the cleats you choose are compatible with your cycling shoes and Shimano SPD pedals. Most SPD cleats fit standard 2-bolt mountain bike shoes, but some road or commuter shoes might require a different setup. I double-checked this before purchasing to avoid any mismatch.
Material and Durability
Cleats come in plastic or metal varieties. Plastic cleats tend to be lighter and quieter when walking but wear out faster. Metal cleats last longer and offer a more solid engagement, but they can be noisier. For my daily rides, I went with plastic cleats for comfort, but for long-distance or off-road, metal cleats might be better.
Ease of Installation
I looked for cleats that came with all necessary hardware and clear instructions. Some cleats allow you to adjust the tension and float after installation, which I found very helpful for fine-tuning comfort.
Price and Brand Reputation
While Shimano is the most recognized brand for SPD cleats, there are also third-party options that can be more affordable. I recommend sticking to reputable brands to ensure quality and safety. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves you from frequent replacements.
Tips from My Experience
- Always carry a spare set of cleats or at least the bolts when you ride, in case of unexpected wear or damage.
- Regularly check your cleats for signs of wear, especially if you walk a lot in your cycling shoes.
- Take time to adjust the tension and float to match your riding style and comfort level.
I hope these insights help you find the right cleats for your SPD pedals, making your rides smoother, safer, and more enjoyable!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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