2 more cents.
Sneakers: I can't use them myself. Too used to hard soled cycling shoes. Soft soled sneakers don't provide enough protection from the pedal for me.
Toe clips may be antiquated, but I don't think they're particularly dangerous. Plus, I love my old quill pedals too much and don't want to replace all my old Dettos with expensive, synthetic, modern cycling shoes.
Strap routing: I don't believe I've ever seen them routed as above, Ron. But, if it works. I like the buckle down low, on the side of the foot.
Pull up on the strap end to tighten. Flip buckle lip down with thumb to loosen.