I've made plenty a jump in retention, starting with single gates, to double gates, to Hold Fast straps, and now recently clipless. I never enjoyed cages, the were too clumsy for me. The Hold Fasts were loyal to me, I love them and still have them. Now I use my Crank Brothers Candy SLs and a pair of DZR Strasses. It feels so natural to me, very comfortable, and pretty easy to get use to. Still mastering clip entry but it's nothing frustrating. I just feel secure in the feet, and don't have any regret.