I have the Shimano SH-M225 MTB shoes and I love them. I find them extremely comfortable and durable, with a very stiff sole. The only draback I'd say is they're a bit heavy, compared to the competition. They're probably a step above what you might call "middle of the road", as they're Shimano's highest offering for a MTB shoe. I'd recommend the Shimano SH-M180 ($140), which is very similar to the M225. I like having the ratchet buckle for the top strap. Other than Shimano, I'd say something from Sidi, like the Bullet Mesh, or the Dominator, if you can afford it.