Pirelli Mt44 has a bunch of Traction. My favorite tread pattern. It's sort of a broken paddle design that's directional. Cup-shaped nobbs. It is great when new, but doesn't last as long as KENDA tires. I use Washougal and Budd's Creek here in Indiana. They have good traction, hold up well, and are priced right. I have heard of some issues with nobbs being torn off, but have not had any on mine. Stay away from hard terrain tires, if you ride sand, clay and mud. I always look at intermediate patterns.
A local bike shop showed me a stamp on the sidewall that indicates the date of manufacture. Old tires don't last and are too hard to hook up, so you have to watch out on the "good deals".