I've never used latex tubes (except when they are part of my Vittoria tubulars) so I can't comment too much on their functionality. I did switch for a while from using Conti Race 28 tubes to the Race 28 Light version and did notice an increase in punctures and blowouts and couldn't really feel any performance difference (ecept for my wallet being a bit lighter as they were nearly twice the price). I've switched back to the regular Race 28s now.