In some ways, they make more sense than clips and straps for street FG - they tighten and loosen based on the angle of your foot so you can get a very positive connection to the pedals without tightening/loosening the straps (although it's not like you could, you adjust them with a wrench).

When your straps are tight enough to really attach your feet to the pedals, AFAIK, you shouldn't be able to take your feet off without bending down and loosening the straps. Otherwise you can just ride with loose straps which is also okay, but still imperfect in its own ways.


SPD's were not invented in a vacuum.