Best Sticky Tires For Street Racing: Six Street-and-Strip Options

Best Sticky Tires For Street Racing

A strong sticky tire for street racing combines drag-oriented traction with the right fitment and clear street-use approval, making it suited to drivers who want to reach the strip on the same tires. The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P275/40R17 SL leads this selection with its R2 compound, redistributed tread void, tubeless construction, and DOT certification. The lineup also includes a street-legal Atturo drag radial designed for rear-axle duty, plus ET Street S/S sizes for 15-, 18-, and 20-inch rims.

One option, the ET Street Radial Pro, is explicitly race use only and not approved for street use, so it belongs at the bottom for this search. Confirm tire size and intended axle fitment before choosing.

The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P275/40R17 SL is the best overall match here for street-and-strip driving. Its R2 compound is specified for improved strip traction, while redistributed tread void aims to improve tread contact and dry traction. It is tubeless and DOT-certified for street use, giving it a useful combination of drag-focused features and stated road approval.

Choose it only if P275/40R17 matches your vehicle and wheel requirements.

Our Top Picks

Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 17-inchBest Overall

Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 17-inch

Its R2 compound, redistributed tread void, tubeless construction, and DOT certification combine stated strip traction features with street-use approval.

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Atturo AZ850DR 20-inchBest Rear Drag Radial

Atturo AZ850DR 20-inch

This DOT-compliant radial is built for rear-axle duty on street-driven cars, with a solid center rib and 315/35R20 fitment.

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Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 20-inch20-Inch Street Option

Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 20-inch

The 275/40R20 size suits a 20-inch rim, and its R2 compound, tubeless construction, and DOT certification support street-and-strip use.

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Compare the tires by size, intended use, and street approval

#ProductSizeRim SizeWeightLoad CapacityBuy
1P275/40R1717 in29.6 lb1653 lbView on Amazon
2
Atturo AZ850DR 20-inch2. Atturo AZ850DR 20-inchBest Rear Drag Radial
315/35R2011 in41.7 lb1060 kgView on Amazon
3P275/40R2020 in33 lb2039 lbView on Amazon
4P275/45R1818 in32 lb1929 lbView on Amazon
5P275/60R1515 in32 lb2149 lbView on Amazon
6
Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Pro6. Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial ProTrack-only launch traction
P275/60R1515 in11 kg—View on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best Sticky Tires For Street Racing

Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 17-inch

#1 · Best Overall

1. Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 17-inch

  • Size: P275/40R17
  • Rim Size: 17 in
  • Weight: 29.6 lb
  • Load Capacity: 1653 lb

Best for: 17-inch street-strip radial.

Why it ranks #1: Its R2 compound, redistributed tread void, tubeless construction, and DOT certification combine stated strip traction features with street-use approval.

The P275/40R17 fitment sets this ET Street S/S apart for drivers using a 17-inch rim, while its R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required. D.O.T. certification makes it a street-use option rather than a race-only radial.

The proven R2 compound is specified to improve traction at the strip, while the redistributed tread void improves tread contact and dry traction. Those features give street-and-strip drivers a clear focus on dry grip and launches. Tubeless construction supplies a leak-free seal without tubes, avoiding the extra tube-related hassle. The P275/40R17 size and 17-inch rim specification help guide fitment checks; wheels and tires are sold separately, so buyers must arrange the wheel independently.

Pros
  • R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required.
  • Redistributed tread void improves tread contact and dry traction.
  • Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes.
  • D.O.T. certified for street use.
Cons
  • Its listed load capacity is 1,653 pounds, a limit buyers should account for in their application.

Skip it if you need a higher listed load capacity; the MICKEY THOMPSON ET Street S/S P275/60R15 lists 2,149 pounds.

This version fits buyers seeking a street-legal ET Street S/S for a 17-inch rim and strip-focused dry traction. Check the 1,653-pound listed load capacity against the vehicle, and remember the wheel is sold separately.

Full product details
BrandMICKEY THOMPSON
Included ComponentsFunnel
Item Dimensions25.7 x 25.7 x 10.9 inches
Item Weight29.6 pounds
Load Capacity1653 pounds
ManufacturerMickey Thompson
Part Number255506
Manufacturer Warranty Description30 Days
Model Number90000024558
Rim Size17 inches
SizeP275/40R17
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description275/40R17

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P275/40R17 SL

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Atturo AZ850DR 20-inch

#2 · Best Rear Drag Radial

2. Atturo AZ850DR 20-inch

  • Size: 315/35R20
  • Rim Size: 11 in
  • Weight: 41.7 lb
  • Load Capacity: 1060 kg

Best for: Rear-axle street drag radial.

Why it ranks #2: This DOT-compliant radial is built for rear-axle duty on street-driven cars, with a solid center rib and 315/35R20 fitment.

A solid center rib helps the Atturo AZ850DR track straight in everyday conditions, supporting street driving between drag-strip runs. This 315/35R20 tire is a DOT-compliant drag radial specified for rear-axle duty on street-driven performance cars, so the listed role is not a front-axle fitment.

The finely sliced shoulder blocks reduce road noise for normal street driving, while the solid center rib is intended to track straight in everyday conditions. Those features make the AZ850DR more street-oriented than a track-only tire, and its DOT compliance supports legal street use. Atturo specifies rear-axle duty; its standard AZ850 is identified as the matching front tire. The 315/35R20 size and 11-inch rim specification help buyers assess fit before arranging installation.

Pros
  • DOT-compliant and street legal for enthusiast use.
  • Rear-axle duty is specified for street-driven performance cars.
  • Finely sliced shoulder blocks reduce road noise.
  • Solid center rib tracks straight in everyday conditions.
Cons
  • Atturo specifies this drag radial for rear-axle duty, not front-axle use.

Skip it if you need the front-axle tire; the Atturo AZ850 is identified as the matching front tire in this family.

Choose the AZ850DR for a street-driven performance car needing a rear drag radial in 315/35R20. Its shoulder and center-rib features support everyday driving, but plan for changing conditions with a drag-focused compound.

Full product details
BrandAtturo
Included ComponentsTire Only
Item Dimensions27 x 27 x 13 inches
Item Weight41.7 pounds
Load Capacity1060 kg
ManufacturerAtturo
Part NumberDR850D3KM0ATA
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionStandard Manufacturer Warranty
Model NumberDR850D3KM0ATA
Rim Size11 inches
Size315/35R20
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description315/35R20

Listed on Amazon as: ATTURO AZ850DR DOT Street-Legal Drag Radial Tire, 315/35R20 110Y XL

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Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 20-inch

#3 · 20-Inch Street Option

3. Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 20-inch

  • Size: P275/40R20
  • Rim Size: 20 in
  • Weight: 33 lb
  • Load Capacity: 2039 lb

Best for: 20-inch street-strip fitment.

Why it ranks #3: The 275/40R20 size suits a 20-inch rim, and its R2 compound, tubeless construction, and DOT certification support street-and-strip use.

A 20-inch rim specification sets this ET Street S/S apart for drivers seeking strip traction in a larger-wheel setup. Its proven R2 compound targets improved traction with little to no burnout required, and D.O.T. certification supports street use in the P275/40R20 XL size.

The R2 compound targets improved strip traction, while the redistributed tread void is specified to improve contact and dry traction. That pairing gives drivers a dry-road and launch-focused tread for street-to-strip use. Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes, simplifying the tire setup. The P275/40R20 XL size and 20-inch rim specification help identify fitment, and the listed 2,039-pound load capacity gives another concrete application detail to consider. Wheels and tires are sold separately.

Pros
  • R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required.
  • Redistributed tread void improves tread contact and dry traction.
  • Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes.
  • D.O.T. certified for street use.
Cons
  • Wheels are sold separately, so the listing is not a complete wheel-and-tire assembly.

Skip it if you use a 17-inch rim; the MICKEY THOMPSON ET Street S/S P275/40R17 SL is listed for that wheel size.

Choose this ET Street S/S for a street-and-strip car set up for P275/40R20 XL tires on 20-inch rims. Its R2 compound and D.O.T. certification suit dual use; account for the listed 2,039-pound load capacity and separate wheel purchase.

Full product details
BrandMICKEY THOMPSON
Included ComponentsPer Item Description
Item Dimensions28.7 x 28.7 x 10.9 inches
Item Weight33 pounds
Load Capacity2039 pounds
ManufacturerMickey Thompson
Part Number250595
Manufacturer Warranty Description30 Days
Model Number90000024577
Rim Size20 inches
SizeP275/40R20
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description275/40R20

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P275/40R20 XL

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Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 18-inch

#4 · 18-Inch Street Option

4. Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 18-inch

  • Size: P275/45R18
  • Rim Size: 18 in
  • Weight: 32 lb
  • Load Capacity: 1929 lb

Best for: 18-inch street-strip setup.

Why it ranks #4: Its P275/45R18 fitment adds an 18-inch choice to the DOT-certified ET Street S/S range, with the same R2 compound and tread design.

An 18-inch rim size distinguishes this ET Street S/S, while its R2 compound targets strip traction with little to no burnout required. The P275/45R18 is D.O.T. certified for street use, giving performance drivers a street-to-track radial option in a specific fitment.

The R2 compound is specified for improved traction at the strip, and the redistributed tread void aims to increase tread contact and dry traction. Together, those features address launches and dry-road use without making this a race-use-only tire. Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without the expense and hassle of tubes. Its P275/45R18 size and 18-inch rim specification help identify the required wheel size; wheels and tires are sold separately.

Pros
  • R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required.
  • Redistributed tread void supports tread contact and dry traction.
  • Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes.
  • D.O.T. certified for street use.
Cons
  • Wheels are sold separately, so buyers need a compatible wheel independently.

Skip it if you need a 15-inch wheel setup; the MICKEY THOMPSON ET Street S/S P275/60R15 is listed for that rim size.

This version suits street-and-strip drivers whose setup calls for a P275/45R18 tire and an 18-inch rim. Its D.O.T. certification and traction-focused features support dual use, while the separate wheel purchase means it is not a complete assembly.

Full product details
BrandMICKEY THOMPSON
Included ComponentsPer Item Description
Item Dimensions27.5 x 11.5 x 27.5 inches
Item Weight32 pounds
Load Capacity1929 pounds
ManufacturerM.T. DRAG
Part Number250791
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionMICKEY THOMPSON TIRE AND WHEEL STANDARD LIMITED WARRANTY
Model Number28443
Rim Size18 inches
SizeP275/45R18
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size DescriptionP275/45R18

Listed on Amazon as: M.T. DRAG ET Street S/S P275/45R18

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Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 15-inch

#5 · 15-Inch Street Option

5. Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 15-inch

  • Size: P275/60R15
  • Rim Size: 15 in
  • Weight: 32 lb
  • Load Capacity: 2149 lb

Best for: 15-inch street-strip radial.

Why it ranks #5: The P275/60R15 size fits a 15-inch rim and offers the R2 compound, redistributed tread void, tubeless construction, and DOT street certification.

The proven R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required, making the ET Street S/S P275/60R15 a street-legal option for drivers who want drag-strip grip. Its D.O.T. certification supports street use, while the 15-inch rim size gives buyers a specific wheel-fit starting point.

Mickey Thompson pairs the R2 compound with a redistributed tread void, which is specified to improve tread contact and dry traction. That combination suits drivers seeking a street tire they can take to the strip without relying on a substantial burnout. Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes, simplifying the tire setup. The P275/60R15 size and 15-inch rim specification help narrow wheel compatibility; wheels and tires are sold separately, so the wheel is not included.

Pros
  • R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required.
  • Redistributed tread void improves tread contact and dry traction.
  • Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes.
  • D.O.T. certified for street use.
Cons
  • Wheels are sold separately, so this listing does not provide a complete wheel-and-tire setup.

Skip it if you need a different rim diameter; the listed size is P275/60R15 on a 15-inch rim.

Choose this ET Street S/S for a street-driven drag car needing a D.O.T.-certified tire in P275/60R15. Its R2 compound and dry-traction tread suit strip use, but check that the 15-inch rim size matches your wheel setup.

Full product details
BrandMICKEY THOMPSON
Included ComponentsTire Only
Item Dimensions28 x 28 x 11 inches
Item Weight32 pounds
Load Capacity2149 pounds
ManufacturerMickey Thompson
Part Number315105003
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionNo
Model Number315105003
Model Year1995
Rim Size15 inches
SizeP275/60R15
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description275/60R15

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P275/60R15 SL

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Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Pro

#6

6. Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Pro

  • Size: P275/60R15
  • Rim Size: 15 in
  • Weight: 11 kg

Best for: Track-only launch traction.

Why it ranks #6: Its R2 compound and reduced tread pattern target maximum traction, but the listing says race use only and not approved for street use.

A reduced tread pattern targets maximum traction, making the ET Street Radial Pro a race-focused choice for launches rather than street driving. Its next-generation construction is specified to take more power for better launches, while the R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required.

Mickey Thompson combines a reduced tread pattern for maximum traction with next-generation construction designed to take more power for better launches. The R2 compound also targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required, creating a feature set focused on track launches. The P275/60R15 size and 15-inch rim specification help identify the required wheel fit. Crucially, this tire is marked race use only and not approved for street use, so it is not a drive-to-the-track option.

Pros
  • Reduced tread pattern targets maximum traction.
  • Next-generation construction is designed to take more power for better launches.
  • R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout required.
  • P275/60R15 size is specified for a 15-inch rim.
Cons
  • Race use only; it is not approved for street use.

Skip it if you need a street-legal tire; the MICKEY THOMPSON ET Street S/S P275/60R15 is D.O.T. certified for street use.

Pick the ET Street Radial Pro for a track-only build prioritizing launch traction and a P275/60R15 fitment. Its explicit race-use-only status is the key boundary: it is not approved for street use or driving to the track.

Full product details
BrandMICKEY THOMPSON
Included ComponentsPer Item Description
Item Dimensions28 x 28 x 10.9 inches
Item Weight11 kg
ManufacturerMickey Thompson
Part Number90000001536
Manufacturer Warranty Description30 Days
Model Number3754X
Rim Size15 inches
SizeP275/60R15
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description275/60R15

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Pro P275/60R15

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Street approval does not guarantee wet-road grip

A DOT or street-legal designation does not establish that a drag-focused tire will perform like an everyday all-season tire, especially in changing conditions. The ET Street S/S listings describe improved dry traction and, for the broader model description, improved hydroplane resistance; they do not provide wet stopping distances or a wet-grip rating. Atturo says the AZ850DR is street-drivable by design, with sliced shoulder blocks intended to reduce road noise and a solid center rib for straight tracking, but it also advises planning ahead when conditions change.

That makes weather and driving conditions a real selection factor, not a detail to infer from street legality alone. If you expect rain, check the tire maker’s guidance for your exact size and drive cautiously.

The ET Street Radial Pro is a different case: its listing expressly says it is not approved for street use, so do not treat it as a road-going alternative.

Match the listed size before comparing compounds

A tire’s traction features matter only if its specified size and rim diameter suit the vehicle. This group spans P275/60R15, P275/45R18, P275/40R17, P275/40R20, and 315/35R20, so the products are not interchangeable simply because several share the ET Street S/S name. The Atturo listing describes rear-axle duty and a 315/35R20 size; it also identifies the standard AZ850 as the suggested front-axle match, which is not one of the six products here.

Check the vehicle placard and wheel specifications, and verify clearance and axle suitability with a qualified tire professional before ordering. Pay particular attention to the product’s exact size rather than just its rim diameter: the width and aspect ratio differ across the options.

The supplied data does not establish fitment for a particular vehicle, so confirm compatibility independently.

How to Choose a Street-and-Strip Tire

Street-use approval

For a tire you plan to drive on public roads, look for explicit street-use approval rather than assuming a drag tire is road legal. Five options in this group are described as DOT-certified or DOT-compliant: the four listed ET Street S/S sizes and the Atturo AZ850DR. The ET Street Radial Pro is expressly labeled race use only and not approved for street use.

That distinction should outweigh its traction-focused R2 compound and reduced tread pattern for anyone who needs to drive to the track. Street approval still does not provide a wet-weather performance guarantee, so consider your driving conditions separately.

The road-going options suit drivers who need a stated street-use tire; the Radial Pro suits only a buyer whose use stays within its race-only designation.

Size and rim match

Start by matching the complete tire size and rim diameter to your vehicle, then compare traction features among compatible options. The ET Street S/S choices cover 275/60R15, 275/40R17, 275/45R18, and 275/40R20, while the Atturo is 315/35R20. Their listed rim sizes range from 15 to 20 inches, and the Atturo listing gives an 11-inch rim size.

The range favors buyers who already know their wheel fitment: a 15-inch setup can consider the 15-inch Mickey Thompson, while a 20-inch setup can compare the 20-inch ET Street S/S and Atturo. Do not pick by diameter alone; width and aspect ratio vary too.

Have fitment checked for your vehicle before purchase.

Load capacity and tire weight

Check the listed load capacity against your vehicle’s requirements, and treat tire weight as a separate practical comparison rather than a measure of traction. Among products with a stated load capacity, the ET Street S/S 15-inch lists 2,149 pounds, the 20-inch lists 2,039 pounds, the 18-inch lists 1,929 pounds, and the 17-inch lists 1,653 pounds; the Atturo lists 1,060 kg. The Radial Pro provides no load-capacity figure in the supplied specifications, so this data cannot support a comparison for that model.

Listed weights range from 29.6 pounds for the 17-inch ET Street S/S to 41.7 pounds for the Atturo, with the other options around 32 to 33 pounds. Favor the option that meets vehicle requirements, not simply the highest or lowest number.

Which sticky tire fits my street-and-strip use?

For a street-and-strip tire with stated DOT approval and an R2 compound, choose the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 17-inch if its P275/40R17 size fits your vehicle. If you need a 20-inch rear drag radial and want a product specifically described for street-driven rear-axle duty, consider the Atturo AZ850DR 20-inch; check its 315/35R20 fitment carefully. Drivers committed to an ET Street S/S can select the 15-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch version according to their wheel and vehicle requirements.

The Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Pro is not the road choice: its listing states race use only and not approved for street use. Confirm fitment and driving-condition suitability before buying any drag-focused tire.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I check whether a drag radial will fit my car and wheel?

Start by matching the tire’s complete size designation to your vehicle and wheel requirements, including the wheel’s diameter and width. Check the vehicle and wheel manufacturer’s guidance, and confirm fitment with a qualified tire professional. Do not assume that a matching diameter alone means the tire will fit or be suitable.

How does a drag-focused tire behave on wet roads?

Do not assume a drag-focused tire will perform well in wet conditions. The supplied listings do not establish wet-road performance, and street approval is not a wet-traction guarantee. Check the specific tire’s guidance and adjust driving to conditions; avoid using a race-only tire on public roads.

Do I need a matching front tire when using a rear drag radial?

Not necessarily, but the front tires must still meet your vehicle’s fitment and driving requirements. A rear drag radial does not by itself establish which front tire is appropriate. Check your vehicle manufacturer’s guidance and consult a tire professional about compatible sizes and the intended street-and-strip use.

What does DOT street approval tell me about a tire?

DOT street approval indicates stated road-use approval for that tire, but it does not establish that the tire suits every vehicle or driving condition. Confirm fitment and follow the product’s use guidance. The ET Street Radial Pro listing, by contrast, states race use only and says it is not street approved.

How should I choose between the listed ET Street S/S sizes?

Choose among the 15-, 17-, 18-, and 20-inch ET Street S/S versions according to your vehicle and wheel requirements, not diameter alone. The 17-inch P275/40R17 is the editorial pick for street-and-strip use when it fits; verify each size before buying, as the versions are not automatically interchangeable.

Final Words

For a street-and-strip choice, start with the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P275/40R17 SL: its stated R2 compound, tread-contact design, and DOT certification align with that use, provided the size fits your vehicle and wheel. Consider the Atturo AZ850DR if you need a 20-inch rear drag radial and its 315/35R20 size suits your setup. Avoid the Radial Pro for street driving; its listing says race use only and not street approved.

Confirm fitment and conditions before buying.

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