Generally, +1 on the stiffer shoe recommendation. Even if you are not ready for clipless, you an get mountain bike shoes, and at prices well below $100 (check performancebike.com, for example, but you can find a pair in your LBS). If later you decide to go clipless, you already have shoes that can take the cleats. I have several friends who took this route.

I use mountain bike shoes on my road bike to be able to walk in relative comfort (relative to road shoes...). Initially I had some numbness in my toes, but quickly found a good insole from Specialized and have not had a single problem since.

By the way, several TErs swear by Power Grips as an alternative to clipless pedals.