Cheryl, here's a summary of my experience with clipless pedals. During a mountain biking class I took as a newbie, the instructor constantly encouraged us to try clipless. After awhile, I got tired of my bear traps dragging and snagging on rocks before I got the pedal flipped over. This was really messing me up on the rocky Phoenix downhills. However, I had learned early on that without something to hold your feet on the pedals, you could have a nasty, painful experience when bounced off the pedals. So I bought the TIMES, which the teacher had extolled and others at MTB.com said were so great. However, even after a year, I didn't feel they loosened up much, and I still was having occasions when I ended up on the ground because I couldn't get unclipped in time to save myself. A friend with a similar shoe size offered to let me test drive his Shimano clips, and I was amazed at how easy it was to get in and out. I went straight to the LBS and bought shimano pedals, and have rarely had a problem since. Now I can ride through rock gardens clipped in on both sides, which gives me better control. (I had been unclipping one foot, in anticipation of not being able to unclip in time.) The difference between the Shimano and the TIMES is that the Shimano pedals have adjustable tension, whereas the TIMES do not. If you ride in the mud alot, maybe the TIMES are worth getting used to, as they are good at shedding much and don't get so clogged up. However, if you live in a dry climate, you might consider making the switch if the TIMES don't work for you. Don't give up on the clipless! The power and control that they provide is worth the effort of learning to use them. Good luck, and have fun!