It's a personal preference. If you don't feel safe, don't wear them. I, however, would not feel safe with cages. And it's also dangerous to others when someone that has clips is riding them and keeps clipping out way too early in a panic. They slow the group down behind them and things can get sketchy.

On my road/racing bike I have SpeedPlay Light Action that I wear with carbon sole SIDI shoes. Do they make me faster? Well, I used to have SPD pedals and mtn bike shoes and I can say that they are more efficient. I go faster with less energy loss and foot fatigue with a pedal/shoe designed for racing.

I just put Speedplay Drilliums (SUPER BIG platforms with spikes!) on my Bike Friday. I use this bike for tooling around town and running errands. The wide platform doesn't lose as much energy and my feet don't hurt as much. I can wear any shoe type and be ok.

I do have Light Actions for that bike too. And for longer rides I prefer them. Do I feel safer in them? I do yes. But I like to be able to react quickly to something - bunny hopping clipped in is easier for me - and I just don't have to work as hard in clips. My pedal stroke is more efficient because I can pull up as well as push down.

I developed this preference as my ability and confidence grew. So do what you like and what you feel safe in. You can always change later.

Denise