IGGY - I wholeheartedly agree with irrealised - it shouldn't be so stressful to ride; just fun. After a really bad first day with clipless on a new mountain bike in 1995, I swore them off for 10 years (due to a terrible fear of falling) but still had lots of fun and got much better at biking anyway. I finally tried clipless again 2 years ago and have been generally fine, despite some trepidation and a few tip-overs. Don't be bothered by peer pressure; it's totally fine to ride the way you feel most comfortable. I found the mini-clips to be the most effective alternative (easy in/out; some stability & power). Check these out: http://www.amazon.com/Eleven81-Mini-.../dp/B001D4S9QO