Road shoes/pedals vs mtn bike shoes/pedals

I have "Tri-shoes" with Look Keos and also a variety of Mountain shoes with mountain SPDS cleats.  The main reason I keep the "Tri-shoes" is they slip on easily, I don't need to wear socks, and they have a single closure.  GREAT in a race.  For that reason, I put up with the awkward walking, etc.  I don't find the Keos to be too too bad for walking, although I can slip if I'm on the wrong surface.   So, I wear them because  I prefer to stick my wet foot in this style of shoe.

My "fun" bike (an old roadie)l, which I ride places I don't trust the carbon bike and also commuting, is equipped for SPD mountain shoes, as is my mountain bike. I have sandals and shoes and wear them for everyone but serious riding.

In the past I used to race with my mountain shoes with yankz laces.  Since they had laces and a single velcro strap, it was fine. That was mostly for duathlons, though.

I see no value in "road shoes" for a triathlete or casual rider.   If you're planning to get off your bike and walk much, road shoes are a bad choice.   Hard to get on wet, usually need socks, too many buckles.

If you prefer the mountain bike shoes, and don't mind losing a minute in transition, then I think you should go ahead and switch.  But if you've not tried a real "tri-shoe" I recommend it.  It's worth the slight inconvenience.

Smaller pedal platform for MTB pedals can cause hot spots, less power transfer.

I have had road pedals/shoes/tri shoes for years and never had that I'm going to slip and fall feeling. I have spds on my cross bike.

I'd check out your pedals/cleats that you are using now to see if there are any adjustments that can be made.