Question: Is it possible to use regular trainers/shoes (i.e., withou cleats) with clipless pedals?

A friend of mine mentioned he does this all the time. However, I cannot imagine how this would work. Surely the area of grip would be far too small to get any kind of purchase on the pedals.

We both have [Shimano PD-R540 SPD](https://bike.shimano.com/en-EU/product/component/tiagra-4700/PD-R540.html) pedals.

Answer: 
UPDATE: I use Fly Pedals now when I want to convert my clipless pedals into regular pedals. They are made of machined aluminum, light weight, and lock together so you can put them in your pocket. They cost $50 plus cleats.

[enter link description here](https://www.flypedals.com/products/fly-pedals-version-2)

[![enter image description here](https://i.stack.imgur.com/vNgzo.jpg)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/vNgzo.jpg)

[This company (started on Kickstarter)](http://anykicks.la/) makes flat platforms with straps on top and cleats on the bottom. They convert clipless pedals into toe clips. A pair runs $55 without the actual cleats.

![](https://i.stack.imgur.com/Pclzo.jpg)
![](https://i.stack.imgur.com/LrhvU.jpg)
Yes you can. No it's not going to be comfortable. You're more likely to slip off the pedals.

One alternative is to get double sided pedals where one side of the pedal has an SPD mount and the other side is a flat pedal. 

I've been running Shimano M324 pedals on my commuter so I can hop on with casual shoes or use my cycling shoes for more power on longer rides. It's the worst of both worlds, so you'll find yourself trying to flip the pedal from time to time, but it's a doable option that gives you flexibility without having to swap pedals all the time.

![enter image description here](https://i.stack.imgur.com/y1DlK.jpg)

Unfortunately, I don't know of any other type of shoe / cleat combination that works with dual sided pedals. It seems that only shimano mountain SPD seems to offer this option. If you're already sold on road pedals, then it's probably not going to work like this. You might just want to invest in a set of flat pedals and swap your pedals when you want to ride without clipless shoes.