On a recent ride I was using baskets, two guys were using flats and one guy 'clipless'. I know I'm not up to clipless pedals on a mountain bike - I've tried it with bad results.

I noticed that I was getting some advantage over the flats guys on the uphills once I got going. However, it was a real nuisance to get started on the uphills - trying roll the baskets and insert my foot while maintaining balance invariably got me off to a slow, shakey start. I'm considering going to flats.

I've ridden flats on rental bikes from time to time. Still have the tattoo on my shin from the studs! What pedals do people ride and why?