I have a pair of Orvis breathable Pro-guide waders (bit beyond the budget mentioned in post #1) and they have taken all the abuse I've slung at them on rivers, lochs, float tubes and in boats without issue. I like them hugely.
I still have a pair of Greys 'G' series breathable waders which are a good buy
if you accept that they
will eventually leak. Mine 'went' (started leaking) after less than one season. However, I wasn't exactly kind to them.
I have yet to repair the Greys, but they would probably repair OK. Why mention the Greys waders
They were cheap and deals on that range with boots can still be found -simples
Both of my breathable waders (and indeed my neoprenes) are stocking foot. Much more practical and comfortable for 99% of what I need waders for.
If you're not going to do much fishing between now and the new season, I'd suggest you keep a watching brief on the January sales and end of season clearances for a bargain. However, the advantage of buying something from the Orvis range is customer support - that you can seldom get in a sale from some of the larger retailers if they leak or something goes awry.
Hope that helps
H