Best Drag Racing Tires for Strip and Street Use

#1 · Best Overall

1. Mickey Thompson ET Drag 28.0/10.5-15

• Size: 28.0/10.5-15
• Rim Size: 15 in
• Weight: 23 lb
• Dimensions: 28 x 28 x 12 in

Best for: 15-inch slick racers.

Why it ranks #1: This dedicated 28.0/10.5-15 slick is engineered for maximum traction and consistent ETs, though its listing says it is not approved for street use.

The Mickey Thompson ET Drag 28.0/10.5-15 combines a race-focused slick format with a stated requirement for little or no burnout. Its multiple-compound and size range serves varied drag applications, while this particular 15-inch tire gives racers a defined size for planning a dedicated strip setup.

The 28.0/10.5-15 size and 15-inch rim specification help racers assess whether this slick matches their wheel setup. Mickey Thompson describes multiple compounds and sizes for varied drag applications, with maximum traction as the aim. Little or no burnout is required, which can make staging preparation less involved. The manufacturer also cites consistent build quality and performance testing; the tire is explicitly race-use-only and not approved for street use, so it belongs on a dedicated racing vehicle.

Skip it if you need a street-certified tire; the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P255/60R15 is D.O.T. certified.

This suits drag racers seeking a 28.0/10.5-15 Mickey Thompson slick and a preparation routine that may need little or no burnout. It is not a street tire, so use it only for race applications.

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Drag 28.0/10.5-15

#2 · Best Race Radial

2. Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Pro

• Size: P275/60R15
• Rim Size: 15 in
• Weight: 11 kg
• Dimensions: 28 x 28 x 10.9 in

Best for: RWD strip launches.

Why it ranks #2: Its P275/60R15 size, R2 compound, and reduced tread pattern target strip traction; the listing specifies race use only.

The ET Street Radial Pro pairs Mickey Thompson’s R2 compound with a reduced tread pattern, targeting strong strip traction with little to no burnout. Its next-generation construction is intended to take more power, making this P275/60R15 radial a focused option for drivers prioritizing launches over road use.

The R2 compound and reduced tread pattern work toward greater traction at the strip, while the product description says little to no burnout is required. That can simplify staging preparation when a lengthy burnout is not wanted. Next-generation construction is specified to take more power for better launches, so the tire is aimed at higher-power race setups. Its 15-inch rim size and P275/60R15 dimensions provide concrete fit parameters; this tire is race-use-only and not approved for street use.

Skip it if you need a tire approved for street use; the ET Street S/S P255/60R15 is D.O.T. certified.

Choose this radial for a race-only car where launch traction and the stated power-oriented construction matter. Check the P275/60R15 and 15-inch rim specifications against your setup, and keep it off public roads.

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

#3 · Best Bias-Ply Slick

3. Mickey Thompson ET Drag Racing Bias Tire

• Size: 28.0/10.5-15S
• Rim Size: 15 in
• Weight: 24 lb
• Dimensions: 28.1 x 28.1 x 12.5 in

Best for: Air-retention-focused slick racers.

Why it ranks #3: The 28.0/10.5-15S bias tire is compounded for maximum traction and lists improved air retention, suiting a dedicated race setup.

Improved air retention is the specific update highlighted for Mickey Thompson’s ET Drag Racing Bias Tire, alongside a compound aimed at maximum traction. In 28.0/10.5-15S sizing, it also requires little or no burnout, combining a defined race slick fit with a simpler stated staging routine.

The improved air-retention feature addresses pressure retention, while the maximum-traction compound focuses the tire on drag-strip performance. Its little-or-no-burnout requirement can reduce staging preparation. Mickey Thompson also describes the slick as engineered for consistent performance and cites construction and compounding intended for nearly every drag-race application. The 28.0/10.5-15S size and 15-inch rim specification help check wheel fit. The supplied information identifies a tire only, so plan the rest of the wheel setup separately.

Skip it if you need a 13-inch rim slick; the Mickey Thompson ET Drag 24.5/9.0-13 is listed for that rim size.

This fits racers seeking a 28.0/10.5-15S bias tire with stated air-retention improvements and little-or-no-burnout operation. Verify the size against your wheel setup; the listing is for the tire only.

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Drag Racing Bias Tire – 28.0/10.5-15S

#4

4. Mickey Thompson ET Drag 26.0/10.0-15

• Size: 26.0/10.0-15
• Rim Size: 15 in
• Weight: 22 lb
• Dimensions: 26 x 26 x 11.6 in

Best for: 26-inch drag slick buyers.

Why it ranks #4: This 26.0/10.0-15 race-only slick is designed for maximum traction and consistent ETs, making it a useful alternative size for drag applications.

The ET Drag 26.0/10.0-15 pairs a clearly specified 26-inch slick size with Mickey Thompson’s little-or-no-burnout requirement. Its multiple-compound range targets varied drag applications, while the stated race-only status makes it a focused choice for drivers building a dedicated strip setup.

The 26.0/10.0-15 dimensions and 15-inch rim size let racers compare the tire with their wheel and vehicle requirements. Mickey Thompson describes multiple compounds and sizes for a variety of drag applications, targeting maximum traction. Little or no burnout is required, potentially simplifying staging preparation. The product is also described as engineered for consistent build quality and tested for performance results. Because it is race-use-only and not street approved, plan a separate street tire if the vehicle also needs road use.

Skip it if you want D.O.T.-certified street use; the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P255/60R15 carries that certification.

A sensible match for racers whose setup calls for a 26.0/10.0-15 drag slick and who want little-or-no-burnout staging. Its race-only status rules it out for street driving.

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Drag 26.0/10.0-15

#5 · Best 13-Inch Slick

5. Mickey Thompson ET Drag 24.5/9.0-13

• Size: 24.5/9.0-13
• Rim Size: 13 in
• Weight: 16 lb
• Dimensions: 24 x 24 x 10.5 in

Best for: 13-inch drag slick setups.

Why it ranks #5: The 24.5/9.0-13 ET Drag offers a smaller 13-inch rim fitment and is explicitly engineered for drag-strip traction, but is not DOT certified.

The ET Drag 24.5/9.0-13 brings Mickey Thompson’s little-or-no-burnout approach to a compact 13-inch-rim slick size. Multiple compounds and sizes address varied drag applications, while the product is explicitly not D.O.T. certified, making its race-only role a key part of choosing it.

The 24.5/9.0-13 dimensions and 13-inch rim size give racers a specific basis for checking wheel and vehicle setup. Mickey Thompson says its multiple compounds and sizes serve a variety of drag applications while targeting maximum traction. Little or no burnout is required, which can reduce staging preparation. The description also cites research and development, consistent ETs, and superior construction and compounding. However, this tire is not D.O.T. certified, so it is limited to race use rather than street driving.

Skip it if you need a street-certified tire; the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P255/60R15 is D.O.T. certified.

Choose this slick when a 13-inch rim and the 24.5/9.0-13 size suit your drag car. Its lack of D.O.T. certification is a firm boundary: it is not the choice for street driving.

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Drag 24.5/9.0-13

#6 · Best DOT Street Radial

6. Mickey Thompson ET Street R

• Size: P305/45R17
• Rim Size: 17 in
• Weight: 28.5 lb
• Dimensions: 27.8 x 27.8 x 11.9 in

Best for: Street-legal wide radial launches.

Why it ranks #6: This P305/45R17 tire is DOT-certified for street use and has an R2 compound and minimal tread void for strip-focused street cars.

The ET Street R combines an R2 compound with minimal tread void to promote strip traction and excellent tread contact. D.O.T. certification allows street use, and its P305/45R17 size gives performance-car owners a wide radial option for cars that travel to the strip under their own power.

Mickey Thompson says the R2 compound improves strip traction with little to no burnout, while minimal tread void promotes excellent tread contact. Together, those features target launches without requiring a separate race-only tire. Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes, simplifying the tire setup. D.O.T. certification supports street use, and the 17-inch rim size and 2,271-pound load capacity help assess compatibility and load requirements. The P305/45R17 specification remains the key fit check for the vehicle.

Skip it if you need more than 2,271 pounds of listed load capacity; the ET Street S/S 305/45R17 lists 176 pounds, not a higher alternative.

This suits street-driven performance cars seeking a wide, D.O.T.-certified radial for strip launches in P305/45R17. Match its size and listed load capacity to your vehicle; it is sold as a tire only.

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Street R P305/45R17 SL

#7

7. Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P255/60R15

• Size: P255/60R15
• Rim Size: 15 in
• Weight: 12.84 kg
• Dimensions: 27 x 27 x 10.2 in

Best for: Street-and-strip 15-inch fit.

Why it ranks #7: The P255/60R15 ET Street S/S is DOT certified, tubeless, and described as providing excellent strip traction with dry-road tread contact.

D.O.T. certification separates the ET Street S/S P255/60R15 from race-only slicks, while its R2 compound targets improved strip traction with little to no burnout. Redistributed tread voids promote contact and dry traction, making this a street-approved option for drivers splitting use between road and drag strip.

The R2 compound targets improved traction at the strip, and the tire’s stated little-to-no-burnout requirement can simplify staging. Redistributed tread voids are intended to improve tread contact and dry traction, giving the street-and-strip combination a defined focus. Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes, avoiding that additional component. D.O.T. certification permits street use, unlike race-only choices. The P255/60R15 size, 15-inch rim specification, and 1,885-pound load capacity help frame fit and load planning.

Skip it if you require more than 1,885 pounds of listed load capacity; the ET Street R P305/45R17 lists 2,271 pounds.

A fit for drivers wanting one D.O.T.-certified tire for street use and strip traction in P255/60R15. Check wheel dimensions and the listed load capacity against the vehicle before choosing it.

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S P255/60R15 SL

#8

8. Shinko Hook-Up Drag

• Size: 190/50ZR-17
• Rim Size: 17 in
• Weight: 14 lb
• Dimensions: 24.48 x 24.48 x 7.48 in

Best for: DOT motorcycle drag setup.

Why it ranks #8: This 190/50ZR17 rear tire is designed for motorcycle drag racing, with a flexible carcass, aramid belt, and DOT approval.

A lightweight, extremely flexible carcass is the Shinko Hook-Up Drag’s defining feature, paired with a tread pattern and profile shaped for drag racing. This DOT-approved radial is sized 190/50ZR-17, giving motorcycle racers a specific rear-tire option rather than a general-purpose car slick.

Shinko describes the flexible carcass as lightweight, while the drag-specific tread pattern and profile address the demands of racing launches. An aramid belt and DOT approval combine construction details with a defined road certification; the listed description also identifies Shinko’s softest available compound. The 190/50ZR-17 size and 17-inch rim specification help assess wheel compatibility, and the stated 805-pound load capacity is another setup consideration. The supplied facts establish a motorcycle rear tire, not a universal fit.

Skip it if you need a 15-inch car slick; the Mickey Thompson ET Drag 26.0/10.0-15 is listed for a 15-inch rim.

Consider this for a motorcycle drag setup requiring a 190/50ZR-17 rear tire with DOT approval and an aramid belt. Its listed size and 805-pound capacity remain important fit and load checks.

Listed on Amazon as: Shinko Hook-Up Drag Rear Tire (190/50ZR17)

#9

9. Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 305/45R17

• Size: 305/45R17
• Rim Size: 17 in
• Weight: 33 lb
• Dimensions: 11.9 x 27.9 x 27.9 in

Best for: Summer street-and-strip radial.

Why it ranks #9: The 305/45R17 street-oriented radial is described as offering dry traction and improved hydroplane resistance, but its listing provides less drag-specific detail.

Radial construction and a tread compound are identified as the ET Street S/S’s basis for dry traction and improved hydroplane resistance. This 305/45R17 tire is described for street drivers heading to the drag strip, with summer, high-performance positioning and a 17-inch rim specification.

The product description links its tread compound and radial construction to dry traction and improved hydroplane resistance, giving street-oriented drivers two relevant operating considerations. Its summer season and high-performance classification further define its intended category. The 305/45R17 size and 17-inch rim specification provide fit information, while the listing identifies it as a tire only. The description positions the ET Street S/S for street tires used at the drag strip; it does not provide a D.O.T. certification statement, so do not assume one from these supplied facts.

Skip it if you require explicit D.O.T. certification; the Mickey Thompson ET Street R P305/45R17 is listed as D.O.T. certified.

Consider this for a summer high-performance setup in 305/45R17 when the stated dry-traction and hydroplane-resistance benefits fit your use. The listing does not specify D.O.T. certification, so that boundary matters for street use.

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S 305/45R17 Tire

#10

10. Mickey Thompson ET Front 24.0/4.5-15

• Size: 24.0/4.5-15
• Rim Size: 15 in
• Weight: 11 lb
• Dimensions: 24.2 x 24.2 x 5.8 in

Best for: Lightweight front drag tires.

Why it ranks #10: This lightweight 24.0/4.5-15 race-only tire is designed for the front and reduces rolling resistance, so it is not a drive tire for launch traction.

An ultra-lightweight design is the ET Front’s defining advantage, with reduced rolling resistance as its stated benefit. This 24.0/4.5-15 tire is a race-only front option for cars, dragsters, and land-speed racers, and it can complement Mickey Thompson ET Drag drive tires in a complete race package.

The ultra-lightweight design is intended to reduce rolling resistance, supporting a front-end role in drag and land-speed applications. Tubeless construction provides a leak-free seal without tubes, which removes the need to add that component during installation. The 24.0/4.5-15 size and 15-inch rim specification help narrow fit checks, while the manufacturer lists other popular sizes for varied fitments. This is a front tire, not a drive slick, and it is race-use-only rather than street approved.

Skip it if you need a rear drive slick; the Mickey Thompson ET Drag 26.0/10.0-15 is a listed drag tire for that role.

Pick this for a race vehicle needing a lightweight 24.0/4.5-15 front tire, including cars, dragsters, or land-speed racers. It complements ET Drag drive tires but is not approved for street use.

Listed on Amazon as: Mickey Thompson ET Front 24.0/4.5-15