New weight-actuated clips and other fastening and tightening techniques are disclosed. In one aspect of the invention, plate-style weights include a self-contained clipping system that, preferably, is reversibly weight-actuated, and therefore requires no additional clipping step to use—a user need only load a weight-actuated, self-clipping weight. In other aspects of the invention, a lateral tightening mechanism in the direction of loading is also provided, eliminating lateral play. In still other aspects, a user may rapidly and selectively shed weight from a weight-loading member. The weight-actuated tightening aspects are also applied in the context of sporting garments, such as running shoes, allowing a user to put on well-fitted shoes quickly, with easy entry, and no need for separate lacing or binding steps.