If you want wide tyres for off-tarmac use, then look for something with cantilever brakes and enough clearance for at least 32mm tyres. For your stated use, be cautious of bikes with dual pivot brakes as there can often be limited clearance for fatter tyres and mudguards.
The feel and stopping power of DP seems better than canti to me. Some models have enough clearance for 38mm tyres & mudguards, eg. Alhonga Deep Drop. It does help to deflate tyre before fitting/removing wheel.
