Have used all 3 types of pedals (platform, cage, clipless) and I think (by far) clipless are the best. They are way easier to get in and out of than those horrid cages, your feet do not slip as on platform. I agree..practice in a soft spot and set on really light tension at first; actually I keep them fairly light. (I am not a real aggressive rider ) Also with clipless, you can spin a couple of revolutions without being fully cllipped in when you need to get going. Get some, you'll love them.