+1 to the reasoning: cheap enough to replace when it becomes an issue, carry on.

I'm surprised you're making as much clicking / crunching as you seem to be describing. I'm using Sidi Dominators with Crank Bros cleats and it's not very noticeable. There are lots of different treads, cleat heights, and even shims out there. If this is to the point where you're changing your gait, you may want to investigate. Particularly since slipping and going down hard is a distinct possibility.