Heck, there's even some fairly decent gear on sale at Marshalls and Costco - I've heard rumors (tho have yet to see) Patagonia or Smartwool at Ross Dress for Less.

It's just like every other consumer product out there - you can save money if you shop carefully and do a little research. And buy gear that's off brand but just as functional.

I could have bought trademarked Goretex fabric to sew together - I bought a waterproof breathable non-branded clone of it instead, for a lot less money. All it took was calling the customer service at OWFINC and asking questions.