Reversible City Tire
 

I'm looking for a good, tough 28c tire that doesn't have a direction-specific tread since I flip my back wheel between fixed and freewheel depending on my mood.

I'll be riding them in Seattle, for whatever that's worth.

Even in the rain, the amount that "directional" tread matters on the road is extremely close to none.

^^^^ This.

Get a tire with slick tread and stop worrying.

Another agreed. I only noticed tire directionals when riding mtb.

That's great new, guys. Good to know I don't have to limit my choices. Now to comb though the bazillion threads on which is the most bomb-proof city tire.

Gp4ks?

I don't even pay attention to directional tires. I think it's just marketing hype.

As others have said, don't sweat it.

Schwalbe Marathon Plus, I have the 32c version on one of my bikes and its a badass tire, over 2000km on them and not a single flat so far, and if you can go wider then 28c on your city bike I recommend doing it. I went from riding 25c Gatorhardshell tires pumped to 120psi to the 32c marathons at 70psi and the improvement in comfort was amazing. It did slow me down but it wasn't anything too significant.
Another great option is the Panaracer RIBMO, had the 28c foldable version on another bike of mine and only got one flat when it was extremely worn out.

No, he better sweat it, if he doesn't follow the directional marking. It will be the end of all of us!

I have been really happy with the michelin pilot city commuter tire I have on the front as well as Serfas Drifter I have on the rear (though that's a 32c)

Seattle! A number of us are in Seattle. Come say hi!

So I've noticed. It's comforting to know I'm moving to a bike-friendly city. I don't drive (hey, I'm from Manhattan) so I'll be spending a lot of time on two wheels until I get a hang of riding (gasp!) the bus. I haven't stepped foot on a bus since grade school.

Bike all the city! I don't drive much aside from going to work. Driving (parking) here sucks!

What part of the city are you living in?

Capitol Hill. I'm basically doing the same thing people do when they move to NYC -- get a pricey apartment in the middle of town then find my way to someplace more reasonable once I know the city better.

I prefer the RibMo. The almost slick tread gives better ride quality and less rolling resistance than the Marathon Plus.