DeadRinger,
not sure if you're just being sarcastic,but yes you can turn them around for different applications....the actual compound is'nt different when you turn them around,just the purpose of the tread design.I've never tried them in the "Intermediate" direction to see how they work....but they HOOK-UP bigtime in the soft direction,and there's several guys on here that agree.The soft direction has a similar design/purpose as the old Pirelli Laguna Cross,which in my opinion was THE BEST tire for Southwick.It has a hook design that just works awesome in soft terrain and sand.
I can take a picture of the sidewall if you'd like,so you can see the arrows pointing for "Soft" or "Intermediate".I will say though,if you've never tried them,you should give them a shot,providing you ride in softer terrain areas,it just comes down to personal preference,some guys like the Maxxis IT's cause they last along time,I personally don't think they hook-up anywhere near as good as the Millville in corners when track riding...but again,everyone has their own opinion.Another thing to consider is,what type of riding do you do?.If you're riding on soft tracks only like me,I choose the Millville for traction,but if you're doing fire road/trail riding,you may want to go with the Maxxis for a long lasting tire.
Do a search in here on certain tires you have an interest in,and see what the guys are saying about them,then weigh your options.
Foxx