Can't comment on those but bought 2 pair of the Nashbar Special Road pedals last summer. Planned to put a pair on my wife's road bike (so I could reclaim the M520s she stole off my MTB) and a pair on my road bike. She wasn't thrilled with giving up her (MY) SPDs so I put them on mine first. They do not release well. I can't get out by just kicking my heel out. I have to wiggle my foot and then kick out. I adjusted and lubed but no change. Obviously wouldn't do that to my dear wife so, when I purchased my new road bike, I put the other pair on it. Same thing. Have to do a little wiggle before kicking my heel out. I figure I'll keep them till I wear out the 2 pair of cleats and then pop for some decent pedals.