I don't think it matters which hardware you use to mount the cleat to the shoe. Chickwhorips said that she used the cleat hardware, so I would go with that.

If you only want one winter shoe, I would suggest the Lakes. The Sidis have a hard plastic sole - think of this on a COLD day - not at all flexible, and likely to conduct cold (although maybe I am wrong). Plus, you said the Lakes were cheaper .

Let me know how you end up liking them if that's what you decide.

SheFly

p.s.
A picture is always worth a thousand words!