I've only ever ridden with clips and straps and never found them lacking. There is the knack of getting your shoe into the clip when starting out which isn't all that tough really. The only issue I have is in modern times, cycling shoes have these lateral velcro straps which completely interfere with getting clipped in, no fault of the clips. Next shoes I buy will have laces only, or longitudinal zippers, if such shoes exist.
A nice thing about clips/straps is, in a pinch, you can ride them quite comfortably and effectively in regular shoes, should the need arise.