adj. misleading name for a pedal-and-shoe system where the clips or cleats clip onto the soles of special shoes. Called "clipless" because they replaced toe clips.
A type of pedal and matching shoe in which the shoes lock into the pedal. The clips cannot be seen when clipped in, hence "clipless."
A type of pedal and matching shoe in which the shoes lock into the pedal via the sole of the shoe. The system does not use the old "toe clip" (toe strap) style; hence "clipless."