i have gatorskins and the first time is very hard but it becomes much easier after that. Depending on how far you get with the tire I try use my hands:

put the bike wheel in your lap with the part of the bead that won't go over away from you and sort of roll it on with the palms on your hands. it takes some time but if you don't want to use your tire irons or don't have the thumbs this usually works out.