So I am looking for a durable yet comfortable 700 x 25 folding tire to use on my S&S coupled bike. I've been leaning towards the Continental Grand Prix 4 Seasons or the Bontrager AW3 hardcase tire for its durability and wet weather performance. I've also considered the Gatorskins, Gator Hardshell or Bontrager AW3 Hard case lite. I already have GP4000s tires on another bike and love them but am not considering them for the S&S bike. My only gripe about the conti durable tires is the ugly Red Cross hatching on the sidewalk from the dura skin and vectran layers. This why I am also considering the Bontragers which also have good reviews.

I have a couple questions.
1) When I fit the wheels in the S&S case. I'd prefer to only deflate the wheels to get them to fit inside rather than removing the tire off completely. Since some of the tires have reinforced sidewalls, would this make it more difficult to squeeze the tires in the case? I know it's easy to take it off completely. But I am wanting to make things as easy as possible. This is probably the question I'm most interested in getting answered.
2) What is the Bontrager AW3 hardcase comparable to in the continental line up? Similarly what is the AW3 HCL comparable to?
3) Has anyone ridden these and give a comparison opinion on them to each other? Protection, ride suppleness, wet weather performance?
4) Are there other similar durable, comfortable, wet weather tires I should consider?

Thanks!