Thigh guards last ages though if you look after them correctly. I'm sure Steve has spoken of pro's having had his thigh pads for 10 years+ and bear in mind they'll practice more often than any of us regular folk. Strippers from using them don't seem the most robust piece of gear.
If you have $160, want a good product and one that's last Remfry seems a good option. I've only seen one set belonging to a friend who plays ICL cricket, but the quality seemed very good.