Indoor cycling has expanded and innovated over the past few decades. However, for all the virtual trainers and terrain simulators, it's understandable to miss having a bit of a breeze to cool you down.
A good quality cycling fan can answer your (gasping) prayers. They're an essential for anyone putting in the miles on a turbo trainer or spin bike, helping to keep your body temperature down and reduce the risk of heat exhaustion.
If you're looking to invest in a fan, we've listed some picks below, with something for every budget and training requirements.
These options have been chosen based on in-depth research and analysis of consumer reviews.
Best fans for indoor cycling
Vacmaster Cardio54
This fan from Vacmaster is designed to replicate the kind of wind you experience outside, with the ability to reach as high as 33mph, according to the brand. It’s stated to have a low operating noise, so you can focus on your workouts without annoying your neighbours too much. At 3.45kg, it should also be portable and easy to move around.
There are three speed settings of 21, 27 and 33mph to ensure the speed can match the intensity of your workout.
If you want to change the speed midway through a session, a remote control allows you to adjust the speed without getting off your bike, which can be strapped to your bike’s handlebars.
There are also three angles to adjust the fan, so you can target the airflow to suit your needs.
Honeywell TurboForce Power Fan
Honeywell’s affordable power fan is stated to be powerful enough to provide a substantial airflow from up to seven metres away.
Small and compact in size, it should be a portable option that can double for use around the house.
Given its convenient size, the airflow could be channelled when rested on different surfaces, such as a shelf or chest of drawers, or the wall-mounted attachment could be used to direct the air at your upper body or torso.
It features a design which is said to ensure low noise, while there are three different speed settings to control the intensity of the airflow.
It might not be the most powerful option and it doesn’t come with a remote control, but this could be a good option for anyone on a budget.
Dyson Pure Cool Purifying Fan
Dyson’s creation could be a worthy investment for any cyclist wanting high-end cooling as well as air purification. It projects a stream of air that can be angled to cool you down and bring some coolness to an intense session.
It also uses Dyson’s Air Multiplier fan technology, which generates circulation power to draw pollutants into the machine and project purified air throughout the room. The power can be controlled via a remote control.
There is also a 360-degree filtration system, stated to capture 99.95% of allergens and pollutants to keep the air quality as high as possible. With no blades or grilles, it should be easy to keep clean.
Wahoo KICKR Headwind Bluetooth Fan
Turbo trainer specialists Wahoo’s Kickr fan is designed for adding realistic wind to your indoor training experience. It takes information from your Bluetooth smart trainer, speed sensor and heart rate monitor, using the data to adjust the speed and power of the airflow to the optimal level.
The targeted airflow is said to be able to specifically mimic your body shape and riding position. The strength and speed can also be manually controlled using the Wahoo app or on the fan itself, maxing out at 30mph.
Lasko U12104 High Velocity Pro Pivoting Utility Fan
This multi-purpose utility fan is designed for use in workspaces and basements in order to provide fresh air in tight spaces.
In terms of cycling fans, it can pivot through 360-degrees, allowing users to direct the airflow with precision. The fact that there's no remote control could become tiresome, but the easy grip handle and 3.4kg total weight ensures it should be fairly portable.
Lasko 20” High Velocity Fan
The most traditional option on this list, Lasko’s metal floor fan features 20-inch metal blades and a motor to provide what should be a powerful stream of air.
It features three speeds with a pivoting fan head to spread air around the room. Its size means it won’t be the most portable option, but the metal cage is said to offer durability.
Lasko says this fan can be assembled quickly without needing any tools, plus it includes a bracket to convert the fan from a floor stand to a wall mount, so you can get a direct air flow from just about any corner of the room.
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