I started on the Cranks, and switched to SPD-SL's. I am pretty used to them now...no falling. It's funny though, I am a hill slug, but I know it's mostly mental (even though I am in the lowest gear the whole way). I used to be afraid that I would not be able to unclip, and it made the uphills worse. But lately I am gettting more confidence and don't think about unclipping - I think about getting there. ps. I use the cleats with float (yellow trim).