You would have heard me say the exact same thing couple years ago. Not any more. I sprung for a pair of Simms Guide weights two a year ago, and let me tell you, there IS no more important fishing gear than light, dry, confortable waders.

I'd never been able to fish an entire season without leaks. I beat the crap out of my Simms and they have yet to develop a leak or shown any signs of wear. I was a LITTLE more careful than usual after laying down $365, but not much.

You can amortize the cost to see if they're worth the money. 5mm neo's will set you back about 70 bucks. Mine never lasted a year without breaking out the goop and climbing in the tub to find the leaks. Screw that crap. If that 350+ bucks keeps me warm and dry for three or more years, then I'd say that was money well spent.

You can get cheaper than the Simms Guides, but I don't think you can get better.