It does suck. I think Patagonia has declined across the board, their stuff may be greener and more "sustainable," but the materials are nowhere as good as they used to be. I have a museum's worth of Pataguch in my closet, but I can't speak to their waders. Simms used to kick ass (come fish the Rio Grande gorge in Taos - we have serious rocks too), but as I mentioned, my beloved pair finally wore out. I haven't really beat down the new pair, but I don't doubt you guys about the quality. And I'm pissed about the boots - I went with new Korkers recently due to the Boa system and after reading about the stream tread fiasco, but they fit me like hell. I've always liked Redington actually - I have an older jacket that is still going strong. I have 2 pairs of waders (Simms) as well (one chest and one pants) and waders are a damn important piece of gear if you on a mission in the backcountry. I don't like dicking around with quality issues when I am paying top dollar for some gear.