It sounds like he got tires with a kevlar bead. The bead is what actually holds the tire onto the rim. The only advantage that I know of to a Kevlar bead is that it can be folded so if you're touring it makes it easy to carry a spare tire. I don't think the bead has any impact on flat protection.

Are you getting pinch flats - these usually have two little holes one on either side of the tube like snake eyes? You can avoid pinch flats by making sure your tires are inflated properly before each ride. Or is it debris on the road?

Veronica