I own both. I get my high-end Gore Tex from a reputable shop that will exchange them if they fail. My friend returned his Orvis several times in 4 years and they always gave him a new pair, no charge. In winter, I like neoprenes because they provide warmth and also about 9 pounds of floatation, about half as much as a PFD. Two folks I know capsized a raft in January and were stranded on a rock. The one wearing neoprenes lived, the other died of hypothermia. Finally, they are fairly inexpensive. So, I think each has a place.