The 63 Schwinn Varsity I got in 1964 had toe gages with leather straps. It was always debatable (if I remember correctly) as to how much efficiency they afforded an average cyclist (not that any of us were only average). But they kept my feet from slipping off the pedals, and on the tough climbs I could always pull with my legs when pushing was about worn out.

I ride mostly contemporary bikes. And I enjoy "clipping" in with my "clipless pedals" (stupidest reference in cycling). But I own and sometimes ride an old vintage bicycle or two as well. And on them I like cages.... like the old days. And they still work fine, too.