Originally Posted by itwonder
You do make a point, and from a cost standpoint a decent platform pedal with power grips costs about the same as the Crank Bros. Mallet C (from Ebay); which is a very nice clipless pedal with a platform. Off course, for the Mallet C, MTB shoes become mandatory
Another point, both straps and strapless* pedals have a "getting used to it" period. If this is a fresh user, a platform/clip combo. More importantly both take a while to learn how to "get out of them".
I would suggest that a strapless platform like the Mallet-C may be more appropriate. As far as cost goes, Pricepoint and Nashbar usually run combo deals where you can get both for $80-$100 dollars. And a "new pair of shoes" may be a real selling point to the wife ;-)
BTW, the specific benefit of the Mallet-C is that it's actually hard to ride the thing and NOT clip in. And if you go with the Mallets, point the cleat inwards towards the big toe to make getting out of the things easier. Once she's got the motion down, you can point them straight.
* All clipless pedals have clips. The difference is whether they use straps or not.