+1 with ccnyc.

If you crank down the screws on cleats onto your shoes, there is a slight chance to bind the tension/pin/spring which is exposed on the "bottom" side of the cleat. The side that mates to the shoes. And when they bind between the sole of your shoes and the cleat, its nearly impossible to release.

Sometimes the difference is only a quarter of a turn on the screw. I would also highly recommend that you use the non-permanent kind of lock tight goop thingy. I'm not a car mechanic so I don't really know what it is called. Anyway, your husband should know what it is.

Give it a try with the zero/light... with backing out the screws by quarter of a turn. At most 1/2 a turn.

I've been happy with all my speedplay pedals. And I've been using them since when they first came out. Can't afford to switch over to zero cause all my bikes have X3 speedplay and my shoes all have X3 cleats. Have no intention of spending nearly $1000 to switch over.

I really love my speedplay. Phenominal cornering clearance. Sole of the shoe is about as close to the spindle center unlike other pedal system. And they are ultra light weight (if you are a weight weenie). I also love the fact I don't have to worry about which side is up.