I remember a similiar argument over spending $15 for a crankbait when all the new Japanese lures hit the market many years ago. Heck it started with the hooks! People were shocked that someone like Gamakatsu would charge that much for hooks! I heard things like...why they are crazy they won't make it. Lol look at it now.

IMO...Loomis will do just fine with this. Look at the bright side maybe Shimano will get some of the old GLX technology sold for less?? They have it made, put Loomis high dollar stuff out there and then offer the cheaper stuff (great stuff!) through the Shimano name.