Originally Posted by
coasting
nonsense. the rubber bits don't lock into anything. they are for walking on.
This. If you're still clipping in and out just fine, I'd keep using the cleats and not worry about it.
The more you walk on them without the rubber bits, the faster the cleat will wear, so be forewarned.
If you're really that worried about them, perhaps try some plastidip:
http://www.plastidip.com/