THis is how it used to be done - when people would use toe-clips because they were looking for the ultimate performance. Serious bikers also had cycling shoes with a cleat that grabbed the edge of the pedal. This is really only practical for road biking as the need for quick dismounts when riding off-road can make tight toe clips dangerous.

Even with loose clips and straps I think clipless are safer and have more predictable release than toe clips.