do you have to use the spd's? I use a cheap pair of BMX pedals on one of my bikes which makes a nice wide platform for my winter boots. Personally, I wouldn't go through the hassle of trying to outfit cycling shoes w/ warm clothing, but then I live in NH and have to deal w/ lots of snow, ice, slush, and crud in addition to the cold and I wouldn't want to be on my bike w/ anything less than heavy duty big thick waterproof boots.