For the application you have (the OP, that is), it's pretty hard to argue with SPD mountain bike type or compatible.
You really shouldn't worry about toe clips vs clipless arguments. If you want to pedal with your foot more attached to the pedal, go clipless. It's everything toe clips with straps are but in a much more convenient package... and I'm telling you this as a very old toe clip user from way back. As I've recommended many times before, if you decide on a Shimano pedal and a Shimano shoe, not only will you not have any worries about how the shoe works with the pedal, but you can and should choose the multi-release cleat, and you should back off on the tension adjustment almost all the way back to loosen the tension. It's really hard to imagine anything could be more child's play than riding on pedals set up that way. The multi-release cleat and looser tension on Shimano SPD pedals makes all the difference in the world.
It's one thing to be nostalgic about the past, but clipless pedals are one of cycling's best among more recent inventions.
Last edited by Longfemur; 04-10-09 at 08:05 PM.