Nope - think even winter ruling states two layers but no hoodies or thick layers now
I's scale the boards for a pair of pants a couple of seasons old, pick em up for beans, that way you wont be scared of putting holes in the knees etc
as for manufacturer thats completely up to you, its just like going the gym and seeing some guys in nikes n some in adidas, buy what you like the look of its all made for the same purpose, increase bounces and to get covered in ****. although id stick with the more common names like dye, empire, proto or eclipse.