I've been commuting with toe clips for 26 years. I've been using skateboard style shoes with a firm, flat sole. In my latest pair I put in a firm insole to give it more stiffness. Also, I look for "Vans" or traditional "Converse" style shoes where the sole doesn't stick out wider than the foot, and the "collar" at the heel is low. A stiff upper material works better for me, like leather...and man-made plastic-based uppers have not fared well as both metal and plastic toe clips have cut into the material rather quickly after a few rides. Canvas uppers work well, but leather, or suede uppers work best (although suede will scuff quickly, but holds up well).

The "blockier" the shoe and it's sole, the more difficult it is to slide in and out of the clips. That may be a plus for competitive riding, but not for commuting.

FWIW I keep my toe clips on the loose side of firm, especially in the winter, where blood circulation in the feet is important (so I keep my shoes a little looser then too).