But it will reduce your traction on pavement, especially at max pressure.


It depends on the trail surface. If you're talking about crushed limestone or smooth hard packed dirt, you're OK with a minimal tread -- something like the Panaracer Pasela would probably be a good tire to try. Probably the best place to start is to ride what you have on the paths and see how it feels. Get in an open area with no one else around and try some sharp turns to see how much the tires slide.

My biggest concern choosing a tire for city riding would be to get something with sufficient puncture protection. You can learn something about that with your current tires too if you're willing to change a few flats. How much puncture protection you need depends on your local conditions. Tires with too much puncture protection can be no fun to ride with.