The staggered tread elements and the high void ratio work together to eliminate mud, snow and rocks from the footprint. These tread elements prevent mud and snow from packing between the tread elements and blocking the surface contact. On the other hand, rocks are also ejected from the footprint, before they can drill into the tread elements. By ejecting rocks, the tire does not allow stone retention from shortening the service life. As a result, the self-cleaning nature of the footprint promotes a safer driving experience.