i have double staps that i have to wiggle my way out of (i really tighten them down). This allows me to pull back without coming out and apply power over the entire stroke. I cannot make the claim that my street shoes are as stiff as cycling shoes or as efficient, but i don't like the idea of having a stiff heel of a cycling shoe since i'm going to be skidding and applying pressure to one area (only on the pedal itself).