In a nutshell, toe clips are almost obsolete. Go to your local bike shop, sporting goods store or even an online catalog to see how many new bikes feature toe clips nowdays. In fact many mid-high end bikes are sold with no pedals at all due to the huge variety of cleat/pedal systems available.

Yes you can still buy toe clips and they will always have their niche but cleats are much more efficient. Believe me, if you switch to cleats and proper cycling shoes you will see a HUGE difference in performance. But there is a learning curve and you must choose your shoe/cleat combination carefully.

The main difference in switching to cleats is not just the pedal/shoe interface but the shoe itself. "Real" cycling shoes have a very stiff sole. Flexion is detrimental to an efficient pedal stroke. That stiffness will feel foreign at first until you get used to it. It may even result in numb toes until your feet adjust.

On the plus side, clipless pedal systems spread the load over your entire shoe instead just the clip and strap so they are far more comfortable. That difference will manifest itself even more after several hours in the saddle.

You will be facing several decisions, mainly what cleat system you prefer. That will dictate which pedals and which shoes will work for you. Not all cleats work with all shoes or pedals. Most will accommodate your left foot issues because they adjust 10 degrees or so in or out. Some systems "float" to allow your foot different angles during different parts of the pedal stroke. These will feel really strange at first until you get used to them.

Have a look at online vendors such as Performance Bike or Bike Nashbar. That will get you started. For someone in your situation I strongly recommend either the Look system or Shimano SPD. Both offer the best variety of shoes and cleats.

One more thing......cleats are much harder to get out of than toe clips. After years of using the latter you will instinctively pull your foot back when you are nearing a stop. That won't do you any good with cleats. You have to twist your foot to release them. We used say there are two kinds of riders who switch to cleats: Those who have fallen down because they couldn't release in time, and those who will fall down because they couldn't release in time <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> Many pedal designs allow adjustment for the amount of pressure needed to release. Make sure yours are on the loose side. But don't make them too loose or your foot will release when you least expect it. A quick shot of spray lubricant also make release easier.

Trust me. Once you adjust to cleats on a long ride you'll never go back to toe clips.