With regard to alternatives, you might take a look at some of the schwalbe tyres. They have various levels of puncture protection. Their marathon plus line is nearly indestructible, certainly the most puncture-resistant on the market. It rolls OK but is a heavy tyre. Of more interest to you might be the Durano, a high-pressure fast-rolling tyre that is pretty durable. And there's a Durano plus that is heavier, but very puncture-resistant.
I'm a fan of Schwalbe, I've had consistently good results with a number of their lines from racing tyres to expedition tourers. Haven't tried the Conti Gatorskins, though...