I agree with Karen in Boise - clipless pedals are not just for "professional" riders. I don't blame the worry wart husband not wanting to see his loved one falling and getting hurt though!

My son is a bicycle enthusiast, does long rides like Hotter than Hell and RAGBRAI. And builds bikes. He is a big fan of eggbeaters clipless pedals. And he says that he has mountain bike clipless for his road bike. Road bike cleats aren't made for walking on, because they are made for those racers who are supported by a car on their races. Next year, after I get good use from these clipless pedals (Speedplay Light Action), I am going to get some for mountain bikes.

I went riding today again (31 miles - my longest ride!) and didn't fall once. I concentrated on unclipping the left foot as I approached my stops, then lowering the right pedal down to the 6:00 position so that I could stand up on that pedal to get off the saddle and move forward. Then I put my left foot on the ground. Still not totally second nature. But getting better!