universal boots?

[jabbalon]

lo all, just wondering what the consensus was on universal boots/gaiters? have burst steering rack boots and it seems to be a choice on around £70 for oem or £7 for universal. not expecting much in the way of longevity but if they do the job and pass the mot then surely must be worth the saving?

other problem is the breather pipe between left and right boots, how essential is this as the universal jobbies dont seem available with the fitting for the pipe. confused! any help appreciated.