Eggbeaters?

[SadieKate]

I use both the original style (on my XC mtb) and Candies (on my kinda-freeride mtb). The only difference is that the Candies have a platform that rotates around the eggbeater part. This means there is a more support and stability if you just need to slam your foot on the pedal and go, not worrying about getting immediately clipped in. I love them. I used Ritcheys before and the Eggbeaters are far superior for ease of clipping in/out, shedding mud, etc. I love the 4-sided entrance, lack of maintenance, blah-blah-blah . . .

I use Looks on my 2 road bikes and the tandem simply because I have for 20(?) years and it would be expensive to swap and I like the wide platform of the Look. Look cleats aren't friendly for stop and go road riding.

Regarding shoes, don't know what price range you're in but Sidi's fit a very high instep (at least the Dominators/Geniuses do) and are available in wide widths. That said, my hubby has wide feet and did not need to buy the wide ones. I have narrow feet and an incredibly high arch and instep and love my Sidis.