Neoprene versus Polyester Stocking Foot Wader and Waterproof Top

I have been trying to figure out what type of weather gear to purchase for my future kayak fishing excursions.  I settled on  waders with a dry top because I want to be able to use whatever I purchase later on for salmon fishing the rivers and surf fishing (wading).  I was hoping that for those who use either of the two options (neoprene or polyester), that I could get your input as to why you purchased what you did and what are the preferences in purchase of each/either.

If you have a specific brand or type of combo wader dry top you prefer that would be helpful also.  I have been looking at Caddis, Hodgeman, FroggTogg, etc.  I am skinny, 5'11" and about 170 soaking wet.

Thanks in advance and appreciate your help. 

I used nylon chest waders in the kayak for a while because you can layer underneath them, as you would with paddling pants or a dry suit, and chose the chest-high waders because I knew how much I scoot around in the seat and didn't want to be shooting plumber's cracks at anyone nearby... Not really: I wanted the waterproof chest pocket.

In my experience, Caddis doesn't match socks to wader sizes very well, and you definitely want to try them on before making a purchase.  Heck, even the company president couldn't steer me towards the correct size and my first purchase left me with HUGE trash-can-liner sized socks and baggy drawers (I was able to take them back and trade for the right size).

I haven't used the other brands, but Caddis makes a good product, you just want to try them on for size.

I use breathable waders w/drytop. I like the breathable waders because I can regulate the temperature much better than I could with neoprene waders. Mine have neoprene feet, which keep my feet plenty warm, especially if I wear heavy socks underneath. With the neoprene feet, I have discovered that I need to wear footwear two sizes larger than normal. I usually wear size 10 boots, but have to wear size 12 with the waders.

I bought Frogg Toggs because they were inexpensive. They are still going strong with 3 seasons of use, including using them for bank fishing. No complaints with them. I have an OS Systems Gore Tex drytop which is great. Good quality and good price. (Bought at Andy & Bax in Portland.) My only warning on OS is that their sizing is inconsistent - you will need to try it on to figure if it fits you.

Thanks Tinker and Sherminator, appreciate your response.

Charles