My 09 Specialized Roubaix Elite (bought used last year) is ready for some new rubber. Currently has 25's but it looks to me like 28's will fit.

I don't race or do high speed descents on twisty roads but I do ride backroads with plenty of patches, potholes, and sometimes loose bits, so looking for something that can absorb as much bumpiness as possible. Something with a decent life would be nice as well. I've had a couple of flats in the last year and a half but generally don't see lots of broken glass or other debris that can puncture a tire.

I'll spend money for quality but also like a bargain.

There are a couple of different directions you could go.

The Schwalbe Marthon Plus tires are a tough tire with pretty good traction, but they are HEAVY.
I've done reasonably well with the Gator Hardshells, although so far I've had one blowout, and believe the sidewalls are definitely a weakness. They do get good mileage if not damaged.

As far as "absorbing", that may be to a large part a function of tire size/pressure which might open you up to quite a wide range of possibilities. However, also keep in mind that not all 28mm tires are the same size.

It looks like Compass has both 26mm and 28mm tires. I haven't tried them, but some people really like them.
https://www.compasscycle.com/product...ts/tires/700c/

Terrific shock absorption and rolling characteristics.

Or.......

Long lasting/puncture resistant.

Pick one.

Panaracer GravelKings (just GravelKing, not SK)? Despite the Gravel tag, they're also designed for both rough and smooth roads so they are tough. Rolls amazingly well also (at least better than the Gatorskins that I used previously).

Conti GP4000's are about as nice as you can get for road. The 25's run big and might be all you can fit. I like Rubino Pros too - they measure true to size on my rims. Both those tires are light, supple and smooth to ride. For good measurable info rather than opinions check out www.bicyclerollingresistance.com

I love my Conti GP 4000 SII's. they're awesome in the dry and way better than my old gatorskins in the wet. that's my only gauge though is those two tires.

i will admit that i had some sidewall damage yesterday and i have to replace the tire which really sucks but i think its because it may have been underinflated. in any case - i might go with something else but its been a hard choice.

Thanks for all the replies. I've ordered up a set of GP4000SII's and we'll see how that goes. Hope it is a little smoother.