You could also go with Rivendell Roly Polys or Ruffy Tuffys -- which are the narrower versions of Jack Browns -- if you don't mind using 28s. Personally, I prefer nice ride quality and low rolling resistance over extreme flat protection. The roads are pretty good on my commute route, but there are a lot of hills, and I don't want to lug heavy slow tires around. On the other hand, I am reluctant to plunk down $120 for a pair of Grand Bois tires that could get ruined by one shard of glass. You actually would have a lot of good options for fairly lightweight, nice rolling 28s - Vittoria Rubino Pros, Clement Strada, in addition to the Rivendells. You've already tried the Conti GP 4 Seasons, and I have the same complaint about them -- they are much narrower than their specs.