Originally Posted by Jeff Wills

True- but most clipless pedals have adjustable tension. Putting them at minimal holding tension will prevent falls, but they make inadvertent releases easier. Ride mildly until your "release" maneuver becomes second nature, then start increasing tension.

Also, Shimano offers "S" and "M" cleats for their SPD pedals. That's "single release" and "multi release". Single release holds better, multi release releases better.

FWIW: I see a lot of "vintage" riders with Shimano SPD pedals on otherwise immaculate all-Nuovo-Record bikes. If it's what keeps you riding, do it.