All the advice you're getting about toe clips/straps seems good to me. Though in a quick read I didn't see anyone ask what size shoe you are wearing and what type of shoe. Getting in and out of a toe clip in a big shoe can be an issue that's really hard to solve. Make sure you are using the largest toe clip you can, really loose (or no) straps and as small a shoe as you can get your big foot into ;).

How much real efficiency and/or speed you're getting out of this particular arrangement is also pretty iffy.

I recommend getting a clipless pedal that has a platform on one side and clipless grip on the other.

I use these on my commuter:

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes...07_20000_37503

A mountain biking shoe with a clipless pedal will give you a good substantial shoe and grip and if you want to wear any shoe while riding then using the platform side would always be an option.

POWER GRIP HAS A HANDS FREE STRAP-- i JUST GOT SOME X-LONGS TO USE W.BOOTS

Forgive me if someone has already pointed out that back in the day, quill pedals/toeclips/strips were used with a slotted cleat. A lot of track racers still use this system. I remember lining up for a crit around 1991, and being the only one in the race that was still using toeclips. I was surpised that I was MUCH faster getting clipped in than the competition...who were apparently all still learning to use their Look pedals.

You tap the pedal with your toe, it flips over and slide your foot home. It is one continuous motion. It is part of the action of taking off from a stop. You don't stop pedaling to get your foot into the toeclip. You flip the pedal over and slide your foot in WHILE you are pedaling. Accelerate up to 20 or so and then tighten the strap before settling into your spin.