i think,, that a lot of , tyre performance is down to hype, and folk law
i am currently running the "wrong" tyre for the conditions it's a conti twister semi slick ,, ended up running it as i couldnt be bothered to change it when i changed wheels
the last ride out was realy very muddy and i was the only one on the ride with a rear wheel that still turned,, as the mud wasnt sticking to it, even on the chalky stuff we have here still had more traction than fitness the problem was trying to brake on grassy wet slopes
i used to run 1.5 conti cross country tyres a few years ago and still think these are good,,
does the compound make any difference in muddy conditions?
does tyre pressure make more difference than tread pattern,,
it's like being 10 again trying to get your mum to buy shoes with the best grip and a compass hidden inside