I grew up in the midwest and have used clipless in snow without problems but for commuting, I prefer to wear boots when it snows. You never know when you'll have to hike it. And while there are some good clipless compatible cycling shoes that are boot-style, I prefer traditional boots for when things get really deep and nasty. In that sence, I'd opt for platforms or toe clips. My suggestion would be to get either the Winwood Decksters or Winwood InSteps for those times you want/need to ride with traditional footwear. They're made of plastic and won't be the epitome of efficiency but they will permit you to use big clunky boots.