You definitely want MTB shoes and pedals, not road. I prefer Crank Bros over SPDs because I like the float that they offer and their lack of a wall before clicking out. I haven't had a chance to try them, but I've always imagined that Time pedals would be my choice (I don't want to try them, because I can't afford to get a set for each of my bikes...). Also, I've never clipped out using either Crank Bros or SPDs.