This is the shoe I personally use for Downhill. Shimano SH MP56L shoes are designed to be used only with Platform pedals and are not SPD/cleat compatible. These shoes have a standard rubber sole. They're not sticky rubber. (Thank goodness). I can't ride sticky shoes. These Shimano shoes allow you to reposition your foot on the pedal. The rubber flap and black finish has a Batman look to it. The flap is not removable. It is there to keep your laces tucked away and it also prevents your laces from ripping and or contamination. These are, by far, the best DH shoe I have ever owned. The 09 is identical other than the nasty bright white and green color scheme. Looking for this shoe in an SPD? Check out the SH-MP66L. Size wise, I normally take a size 9 and ride these in a size 42 euro. The size 43 euro will fit riders with a slightly larger than US 9 foot. You're probably good for the Euro 43 if you normally fit into a US 9.5. The Shimano box has printed: "Euro 43, US 9". Personally I feel it should say "US 9.5". I guess they run a half size big.
