I wear PI Lobster Claws with liners for temps under 20, without liners for temps under 35. I also have a pair of mid-weight gloves from Avenir for temps between 35-45ish and another pair of heavy gloves from Canari for 40-55ish. The Canaris aren't as heavy as the Avenirs but they're heavier than the usual long-fingered cycling gloves. I hated the Lobster Claws last year - they felt awkward but this year I don't seem to have any issues and man do they keep my hands warm. I've worn them down to 0 with liners without any problems.
and we don't have salt/slush issues here so I can't help you with that one - but I'll bet Denise can!
Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, champagne in one hand, strawberries in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming: "Yeah Baby! What a Ride!"