Shimano PD M535 LX

Advantages: Control, power transfer, efficiency etc
Disadvantages: You might fall off once or twice....

...platform types exist like the shimano m646's that can be good for all disciplines! There are two main players in the mtb emporium; these are Shimano who make the spd (shimano pedal dynamics) & Time who make the Atac. But I've seen loads of other makes I hear you cry - sure the list is endless, VP, Ritchey, Wellgo etc etc but at the end of the day they are all shimano copies & are usually adequate but not as good as the real thing! They are generally ...
...have a set M535 (LX) shimano pedals as well as a set of cheap M646 platform copies from wellgo. On the shoe front I use Northwave arctics in the winter (the only shoe to have in the cold; Northwave use a shimano sole with their own upper), Specialized comp in summer & a set of Lake "skate stylee" shoes if I gotta walk anywhere in them! ... Read review

Advantages: great value and functionality
Disadvantages: might fall off once or twice whilst learning!

The Shimano M535 pedals are my pedal of choice these days, I’ve used other pedals and even other manufacturers but I have found that for value for money and ease of use these cannot be beaten. At first, using clipless pedals can be daunting but its not really an option when riding cross country as the added power and control are more than worth the effort of overcoming the fear and the odd bumps and bruises that you might get during the learning ...
...the top of the range Shimano units (which I would highly recommend) at a cost of around £120 but these are by no means the only option as compatible shoes can be picked up for as little as £20 to £30. Back to the pedals, they’re reasonably light, easy to maintain, set up and use and even manage to look pretty good. At a price like this I don’t think they can be beaten. Highly recommended… ... Read review