Honestly, the best is to have custom piece of glass with a beveled edge made for your table top. It is pricey, but protects your table without having to conceal it with a table pad.

Having glass on wood does not allow the wood to breathe and can ruin it. I would always prefer the warmth that wood gives to a dining room, and being just a little bit careful does not seem like too high a price to pay. It really depends on what kind of table you'll feel comfortable with overall and will enjoy living with.