The learning curve for clips and straps is similar to clipless. You just ride the underside of the pedals unitl you can flip them using the little tab. I try to keep my straps at a tight enough tension where I can easily slip in or out with my trusty Sambas or whatever else shoe I have. The only thing I don't like about clips and straps is the small loss of pull on the upstroke that you get with clipless pedals.