I'm reawakening this thread, because I have the same problem.

New WTB clipless pedals, new specialized MTB shoes. I can't get the things to clip/click/cleat in. I haven't actually tried riding yet, but in the garage both wearing the shoes and trying to attach by hand I cannot get shoes to attach to the pedals. The hope was to practice attaching / detaching in the safety of my own yard and/or garage before braving the treacherous streets.

Does the toe go in first? Or the back end? I've been figuring toe then heel, but tried both ways without much luck.

thanks,
brian