I use the gr9's with retro-gression double straps and origin 8 toe clips. I have "medium width feet" according to Zappos (wear boat shoes while riding for fun) and I feel like the GR9's work the best with soft soled shoes (like them boats) due to it's flat surface. Haven't slipped in the rain before when riding with my Sambas. I ride 5 miles everyday to school and have never felt numbness in my feet. Just make sure your clips are the right size for your feet to prevent the numbness. I got a medium size and my shoes vary from 9-11 (depending on what kind of shoe I wear).