If you're looking to soak up things like craters/potholes/large bumps...which is what I picture when you say winter road damage; then a material change isn't going to do that. Some materials and subtle changes in tire pressure will soak up the "noise", but for actual significant bumps, you either suck it up, or go to a CX frame with 35mm+ tires at low pressure. Or a MTB with a front suspension.

A road bike over actual holes and bumps though is going to jar you no matter what. That's just the nature of it. Find smoother roads, or get a bike equipped for that kind of cratered and semi-technical terrain.