My 13 yr old son races BMX and we are looking to change over to clipless pedals/cleats. I don't want to spend hundreds on an entry pair if possible and there are so many that I am lost. If anyone can provide any recommendation or suggestions it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Hard to go wrong with Shimano products -- kind of depends on what kind of shoes you want to use --- If youre using legit racing shoes with super stiff carbon or plastic soles, then a cage is just in the way , but if using a rubber soled clone of a conventional BMXish looking shoe (5-10, DC and the like ) - a pedal with a cage would be better --- The Saint pedals are high endy but are among the best and last forever

I use an old BMX DX pedal with a red cage I scored off ebay oon my DH bike

like these
https://www.ebay.com/itm/SHIMANO-DX-...62ec294ce581bb



But there are a lot of good choices


https://www.jensonusa.com/Shimano-PD-M540-SPD-Pedals

https://www.jensonusa.com/Shimano-PD-M545-Pedals

https://www.jensonusa.com/Shimano-SL...PD-M530-Pedals


https://www.jensonusa.com/Shimano-Sa...Pedals-en.aspx

I picked up clips when I was around 14-15, honestly I wish I had never tried them. It's nice to be able to adjust and reposition your feet especially when jumping. I feel like my riding became more stiff and unnatural after using them. Just my 2 cents, though...