I know I am going to get some flak for this but... I see a lot of good reviews on gatorskins, I suspect Conti. is shelling to some extent. They are good but not as good at the rave reviews indicate. Even with the gatorskin hardshells, the PRB (puncture resistant belt) is only shoulder to shoulder of the tread. In other words, there is no sidewall protection. If you are getting flats 3 times a month, I would seriously look at the marathon Plus for full protection. Another tire to look at is the Panaracer Ribmo, it is bead to bead protection as well.