Originally Posted by
kmcrawford111
I've used standard Schwalbe Marathons (27" and 16"), Marathon Winter (26"), and Marathon Plus (26"), all extensively. Not a single flat with any of them. Ever. They are so good that I'm thinking about not carrying a patch kit or tube any longer.
I wouldn't recommend that. I ran a pair of Marathon Plus tyres for 5000 miles (they've still got plenty of life in them but I want to try lighter tyres) and got a flat when a half-inch hawthorn spike went straight through the protective sheathing. Curiously that was in central London, so you can't even assume that just because you're in an urban area you're safe from nature's spiky threats.
I've had other "puncture resistant" tires made with Kevlar that have gotten shredded in the same conditions. For your situation I'd go with Marathon Plus. Once you get the things on, which can be an ordeal, it's like a new world free of worry. They aren't the fastest tires, but how fast are you stuck on the side of the road doing repair? They also can last up to 10,000 miles. That has to be considered in the total cost of buying tires. They have reflective sidewalls too - a nice safety bonus.
They're certainly great for durability and great for puncture protection.