I was thinking toe-clips (a plastic whatsitz bolted to the pedal that is strapped to your foot with a nylon or leather strap).

I find these very convienient for winter riding because they offer you the choice of a wider variety of footware. They also work very well no matter how much mud, slush, or gunk they accumulate.

They are also good for utility rides, where you are on and off the bike alot. Dedicated cycling shoes are not so good as general purpose footwear.

Last (and least) they provide me a way to get a little more use out of my running shoes when the cushioning is shot and they can't be used for running anymore.

regards
Dan