I've always used clipless pedals for mountain biking and gravel riding. I'm currently using CrankCandy's on my Gravel bike. I just got a full suspension MTB and will be riding easy to difficult trails.

I noticed a lot of mountain bikers (Salida, Co area) are using platform/flat pedals. This includes a lot of experience riders at the LBS (Subculture Cyclery).

Up to now, I was under the impression that all experienced riders rode with clipless. Now I'm considering trying platforms/flats (Precision Innovations Catalyst).

Who's using platform/flat for mountain biking and why?