After having ridden clipless for about 2 years the last time I rode (2 years ago), I got a new bike the other day and it had flat pedals. It took me all of two days to buy a set of clipless pedals. After riding clipless pedals, I just can't deal with flat pedals. I like the security of having my foot attatched to the pedal and the ability to both push and pull on the cranks to get more torque. If adjusted properly, they're a cinch to get out of.. just kick your heel outward and you come right out of them. And as far as non-clipless pedal shoes go, you're best off just going out and buying a pair of Timberlands, Airwalk, Vans, Skechers, etc. at your local discount store as opposed to paying a somewhat inflated bike shop price simply because they're urban/freeride shoes.