Quote Originally Posted by SadieKate
To the novice, Shimano, Ritchey, Wellgo and Eggbeater cleats could all look the same. Yes, be sure your cleats are made for your pedals. Also, worn cleats will be easier to use - just a fact of life. This also means they come unclipped a little easier and sometimes when you least expect it.
I've had a similar exeperience to SouthernBelle with "clone(i.e. Wellgo,Nashbar,etc.)" cleats in Shimano pedals and vice versa. Have also heard about the same thing happening with Look -type pedals and cleats. If I remember right, the genuine articles have "SHIMANO" Stamped on the cleat.