djaustin, I got the impression they were intended more for touring bikes, where I’m sure they’d be ideal.
Maybe I just got a bad pair, but I didn’t treat them any differently to pedals that have lasted 2+ years. My biggest issue was setting off where there was a climb or imminent technical section. I’d get the first foot in, but then ended up faffing for the second. I think mud/ice must have been a factor in the pedals being unpredictable.
Anyway I’d maintain that I wouldn’t like to recommend them for mtb. Flats are best as they can give a large platform on to which your foot is easily and quickly located and once on with the right shoe/pedal combo feel more secure than spd’s. There are also none of the accidental unclip issues.