Well there's a bike show in 2 weeks, and i'm deciding to get pedals / shoes. In shoes, what am i looking for apart from comfort? I have tried on 2 shoes, LG and Answer, and the LG had a soft bottom sorta like a hiking shoe, and the Answer had a TOUGH bottom. Whats the difference? Harder shoes more energy efficient? (Btw, my price range is about/around $150 CDN.)

Also, for pedals, what is a good brand and how do the cleats work. I hear this SPD thing, and it's by shimano, but is that the cleat or pedal type? I'm looking for something easy to clip in/out and doesn't require a lot of maintenance...like something that clogs a lot with dust/mud. Do pedals like, LOOK, Ritchey use SPD too? How would i know what shoe is compatible with what pedal? (Sorta lost on this issue)

Last thing, is it easy to assemble pedals on the bike? Since i will be buying it at a bike show, i will have to put them on myself, or bring them to a shop. Though doing it myself would be nicer, since i would learn something.

Thanks for the help guys!

Matt