recommend a pedal for a clipless noob

Hi all,

I'm thinking about making the leap to clipless (I've got some fresh rat 
trap scars on the back of my leg, because I don't have either good 
pedals or good shoes at the moment) but am not sure what I should try
first.

Most people are telling me to go SPD, but the guy at the LBS closest to 
my house tells me I really want Looks for more float (makes sense.)  I 
don't think he's trying to make a sale because he's got a bucket full of 
used pedals of both types, and he doesn't sell shoes at all.  I was 
hoping to be able to walk in whatever shoes I ended up getting but that 
seems to not be an option for either?  Also, what about the new SPD-SL?

Also, any recommendations on shoes?  I've just been wearing some old 
soccer shoes on platforms and I can tell they're not stiff enough, my 
toes feel a little weird after about 10 miles or so.

I'm not looking for "the best" just something that will work well, 
although I don't mind spending money if there's a real value in spending 
more.

Most of my riding will be on roads, FWIW...

nate

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