New tires?

[myrtle300c]

My conti tires are ready to be changed after 15k miles on stock 18's. Any suggestions on what to get. I live in somewhat warm SC, so don't need much in the way of cold weather stuff. Why did these things die so quick????
I tend to take off pretty fast, so that and the occasional burnout may explain it. Does that mean I should stay away from a softer performance tire that wears quicker??
my main concern is getting a good looking tire that will last at least as long and provide a smoother ride than the contis.
All that is irrelavant if I can hold out long enough for someone selling 20" rims and tires from an srt8 on ebay next month, but those will probably be bid up pretty high if any come available.