Shimano PD-A550 Pedal Question
 

What is the purpose of the raised metal area found where the clips meet the pedal? Can any shoes be used with these pedals? I hope this makes sense.

if i understand you correctly, that's the metal plate that holds the clips on, not any sort of clipless cleat or whatnot.

yeah can get a cleat that fits under the "arms" of that plate.. I think business cycles has em, but you've gotta be nuts to use clips and cleats on the street.