If you prefer to ride flat pedals, that is your business. But your retro grouchy reverse snobbery re clip less pedals doesn't necessarily translate to good advice for a rider looking to come into the 21st century.

there is a benefit to some sort of foot retention system, even for non racers. The benefits are, less risk of feet slipping off the pedals, facilitates a better pedal stroke, safer than clips and straps, and finally, cycling shoes are better suited to cycling than tennis or running shoes and reduce foot fatigue over rides of an hour or longer.