One advantage of clips and straps is that when you get off your bike you can actually walk if you want to.
I've used SPD pedals with pleasure, however; the recessed cleats allow normal walking---BUT...
...if you use clips and straps you can be a lot more creative about what shoes you wear! If I do get back into cycling I will take a look at the soccer shoes, and also the Payless ones Cambronne was kind enough to point out. There's a Payless store just one glass-strewn, pothole-rich mile from where I live.