We stopped over at Bike World in Urbandale to check out the selection. Two pairs were priced at $250 and were immediately crossed off my list. So I tried on two other pairs. The Pearl didn't fit my foot correctly thanks to my bigger arch and general foot size. The Shimano fit very well and could accommodate my arch with its three straps; the Pearl only had two straps.
Right after purchasing them for $115 plus the $35 cleats to clip-in to the pedal, I went for a ride. I spent about 5 minutes in the parking lot practicing clipping in and out of the pedals. You have to twist your heal to the outside to unlock the cleat. It's not super easy so I wanted to make sure I felt comfortable before speeding off. Fortunately, I didn't need to unclip for the entire 12.5 mi ride. Within minutes, I could tell the difference in my riding. These shoes allow you to go faster than when you're just wearing tennis shoes because you can use the push down and pull up motion on the pedals. I was able to maintain about 2-3 mph faster than I usually do. In a race, that will make a difference.
Now all I need is my very own road bike... and the $1000 or so to buy one. Donations welcome!