I know, I know... yet another tire thread.

So, I made the mistake of traveling HWY 101 bike route this last weekend. Got a good sized slash from the center of the tire down the side wall, probably 2-3 mm wide and 20-30mm long and deep enough to see the tire threads. I am not sure what it was I ran over, it didn't make it through (didn't puncture), but I am assuming it may need to be replaced sooner than later. I not going to bother posting photos, it is already patched with shoe goo to make sure it lasts until I can replace it.
The current tire is the Maxxis re-fuse, I am very happy with it, but would love to try another tire. (I like trying different stuff and eventually settle on one). My budget is $45 max, my priorities are: Puncture resistance, wet weather traction, somewhat fast feeling, and I am most comfortable with either 24,25,26 widths. Since I have a 15% discount offer from universalcycles, I want to purchase from there. (they are also local to me)

Some tires I have already tried so do not bother recommending them.
Conti. 4-seasons
conti. gaterskin
Vit diamente pro
vit. rubino
maxxis hyper???
Kenda kontender