So...how helpful is it REALLY to use clipless/toe clips/Power Grips?

[Jolt]

These are the shoes I bought (not from this site - just example) and they are perfect for my needs.
http://www.artscyclery.com/Giro_Wome...age-GIWWS.html

Hard enough to be able to push. Perfect gripping on flat pedal to avoid slipping and fit perfectly in the toe clips I have. Perfect to walk around once stopped.

You could also use them with some clipless models cleats later on as they have holes under but does not interfere with walking.

I love them.

Those look like they might work well too...but I'm not a big fan of that pink. Not really my style, why can't they just make a plain black or gray, or at least pick a better accent color?

[Helene2013]

At the store I went they only had those and they did fit with my bike colour (then). Maybe they have different colours too. But if I'd have to look for something again, I would tend to look for such shoe design. The grip is just perfect (not too spiky, nor flat), etc.

[Jolt]

Just went ahead and ordered the Keens from JensonUSA...a lot of reviews said they run a half size big so the size 6 should fit, and it was hard to pass up such a good price. I think I got the last pair. Hopefully they will work. I could have ordered the Powergrips from the same site but would feel better about ordering those through my LBS.