Belted vs. Non-belted tires in 1/8 on-road

[simplechamp]

I am currently in the process of converting my Jammin X1 buggy into a Jammin X2 on-road GT car with carbon fiber chassis. I have just about everything I need except body and tires. I have been doing a bit of research into the different 1/8 on-road tires available and wanted to ask about the use of belts in these tires.

Playing/bashing around only, not racing, will have the car geared for 40mph as usual, MMP with 1512 size Castle or Tekin, 4S, nothing crazy. I have already decided to go with radials over slicks, as the areas I will run will be dusty, pebbles, grit, etc.

My main question is do I need belted tires? I have no problem spending $60-70 on a set of Sweep or Ipanema radials, but only if they are really worth it and will make a difference (mainly in the life of the tire, I am concerned with long wear more than grip). If stock un-belted Kyosho IGT radials will do fine for my application, then I'd rather get those and spend about half the money.