I've had great results with Kool Stops (salmon and black) and Jagwire black pads, for both my linear pull/V-brakes, and cantilever brakes. That includes frequent hard braking and long downhill gradual braking. Remarkably free of noise and fades.

Last night I was reviewing some ride videos trying to find a particular segment and found a video from last summer before I replaced my V-brake pads with Kool Stops. I could tell because of the grinding noise, squealing and poor braking. Made me wonder why I put up with those mediocre pads for so long.

If your budget is tight (mine often is) check out Amazon and others for prices on Jagwire and even some Shimano brand pads. They can often cost as little as half the price of Kool Stops.