Asking for opinions on going clipless could bring some interesting replies! I don't want to convince you one way or another. I can, however, share my experience. I ride with cleats almost on all rides. I've got good shoes for SPD cleats that make walking a breeze, but I really like riding in my road shoes with cleats better. The walking in these shoes, even with cleat covers is not cool. However, I'm fortunate that I haven't had to walk much. When I do have to walk, I take a bike with the SPD pedals on it. My commuter has SPD pedals. I sometimes get the urge to simply jump on one of my bikes and just go without wearing cycling specific shoes. This usually results in me taking off the pedals that require cleats and putting on platform pedals. I've probably done this six or seven time in that last four years. The platform pedals only last about three rides before I end up saying to myself "What was I thinking?" Then I put the other pedals back on. So, as you might gather at this point, I really like riding when I'm clipped in. I don't know if I'm more efficient, but my pedaling stroke is more consistent, and I just like the feeling.

I'd encourage you to get over the club Tombay fear. Should you make the decision to go clipless, practice clipping in and out while your bike is on a trainer. If you don't have a trainer, practice with you and your bike in a doorway where you can support yourself on either side with your hands. Once you get over the initial awkwardness, clipping in and out becomes second nature...like putting on and taking off your seatbelt in the car.