Directional vs. nondirectional tread

[MrShorty]

Been thinking of getting tires for the Suburban. Some nice, aggressive MT's. Over the years, I've noticed some directional MT's (like the Pro Comp Xterrains or the new style Kumho Venture MT's). I like the looks, and I've seen some good reviews, but I was wondering what your opinions are. Advantages of a directional tread? How much traction do you lose going backwards (like when you get started in and decide you need to back out)? I saw a trail rig at a neighbor's house the other day, and he had directional tires on his, the back tires rotate correctly, the front tires are on backwards, and I'm guessing it's so he doesn't lose as much when he goes backwards.

I'm not looking so much for someone to say, "just get the (favorite tire mfg)." I'm really looking for some discussion of directional tread vs. non -directional tread.

[Steve]

I've had both directional and non-directional tires. I wasn't sold on the concept of having directional tires. I guess I don't really even think about it much when I go to buy tires.

The ride didn't necessarily seem like mch better, althought I suppose it could be designed for better off-roading, etc.

[TrailLeadr]

I used to do a lot of off roading, but it was the poor man's off roading. I never really spent any money on the equipment, I just went and did it.
If I were to start up again, I wouldn't go with directional tread. To me it seems more like a gimmick that isn't worth it's weight. I know it has advantages, but like you said, it becomes a question of how much can it help you in a situation that is not ideal for directional tread.

Your neighbor probably has the right idea, with his setup, but I guess you'd have to ask yourself what kind of off road traveling do you experience, Mostly rocky, muddy, soft sand?

For me, I'd be more concerned about mud, than anything else. I'm not so sure directional tread would help me much in that situation.