I've got a different take on the Speedplay Frog:

While the RELEASE is heel-out only, I don't think it's accurate to describe the float as heel out only. You can set the inner float stop wherever you want by changing the orientation of the cleat on the shoe, all the way to the point of hitting your cranks with your ankles, if you choose. (I set the cleats so that my ankles just miss the cranks.)

Second, I think the fact that Speedplay makes it so easy to service the pedals gets mistaken for the pedals requiring more service. The bearings in all of these are pretty similar. But with Speedplay, you can regrease then by unscrewing a little bolt that covers a grease port, and injecting new lubricant. I relube mine a couple times a year. They don't need it anymore than my other pedals, but since it's so easy, why not?

Finally, running three sets for several years, I've yet to see any problems with the elastomers in the cleat, or any other "frailty" issues. Perhaps the plastic bodies don't hold up to smashing against rocks? I've also never had an accidental release.

The ONLY negative I've experienced is that the Frogs don't do well in mud and grit. But that's not much of a factor for me, and if far outweighed by the free float. Obviously, I like these pedals a lot.

Jack