Unisex cycling shoes can work for women, but it depends on your foot shape. Unisex shoes are built on a neutral last that typically follows men's sizing and proportions, meaning they tend to have a wider forefoot and higher overall volume than women-specific designs. If you have wider feet or a higher-volume foot, a unisex shoe might actually fit you better than a women's model.
The most common issue women run into with unisex shoes is heel slip. Women's feet typically have a narrower heel relative to the forefoot, and unisex lasts often don't account for this. If your heel lifts while pedaling, you'll lose power transfer and risk blisters. Women-specific shoes address this with a narrower, more tapered heel cup.
The best approach is to try both. Start with women-specific shoes since they're designed around typical female foot proportions, but don't rule out unisex options if you have wider feet. Focus on how the shoe actually feels—secure heel, comfortable forefoot, no pressure points—rather than the label on the box.