I have Time MTB pedals Havent put them on the cranks in Years ..

Release on time, depends on the cleat placement one has a star in its casting putting it on one shoe or the other is the release angle ..

Muddy shoes will engage the pedal better with them or crank Bros ..

Frog is a Bayonet like a camera Lens to a camera Body , the release is foot angle there is an easy float within that range..

I pretty much use Regular shoes and platform pedals for the Most part Now . Toured on toe clip and strap pedals so the shoes could fit loose and be comfortable

SPD shoes will come off your feet if as loose. I put in super comfortable insoles...