I like to run the same width tire front and rear.I have a set of Executioners (26x10) and it seems to work better in the snow,compared to my bro-in-laws AC with 10's on front and 12's in the rear.It may be different for other types of terrain,but the narrower tire works better in snow(doesn't float up on top).I've been in soupy mud to the top of the tires and had no problem,kept pulling through,but I wasn't in someone elses ruts.