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Step 1
Determine your riding style. If you have a relaxed, cross country style you should consider clipless pedals. On the other hand, if you have a more aggressive freeride/downhill style you will want to stick with flat pedals.
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Step 2
Consider clipless pedals. Clipless pedals require a compatible shoe designed to click into the pedal. This design provides much more pedaling power and efficiency because you will be pulling the pedals upward as well as pushing them down; your energy is put to better use. Clipless pedals also keep your feet from slipping off the pedals, potentially saving cuts and bruises. The downside to clipless pedals is that they can be difficult to get in and out of, particularly during an unexpected fall. You may find yourself unable to dismount in time during a crash. Consider how often that you may fall or crash. SPD is the primary clipless system that you'll find, but other systems like Look are also available. Clipless pedals are more expensive than flat pedals and also require the use of compatible shoes.
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Step 3
Consider flat pedals. Some disciplines of riding require more freedom and bail-out capability. If you spend a lot of time hitting jumps in the bike park or simply riding trails aggressively downhill, you may not want to be locked into your pedals. Some tricks require movement of your feet. Pedaling efficiency is also less important in downhill/freeride mountain biking.
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Step 4
Consider a compromise. If you like the efficiency of clipless pedals but want to enjoy a more versatile set-up, consider getting a clipless pedal with a platform. This is essentially a flat pedal that is SPD-compatible. This way you'll have the option of clipping in or free pedaling and can meet your different ride needs.
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Step 5
Consider toe clips. If you don't want to spend the money for clipless pedals and shoes, but would like to get more efficient pedaling, you may want to try toe clips. Toe clips are an attachment to flat pedals which you strap your feet into. They provide much the same benefits and disadvantages of clipless pedals. Toe clips are less expensive and don't require specific shoes, however.
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Step 6
Discuss pedal options when you purchase a bike. Many times shops will allow you to switch out pedals during the time of purchase for little or no charge.
