As to Skidlids, I have always somehow used the basic Military SPH-xx (Gentex) whatevers. Sent my last one to Flightsuits.
www.flightsuits.com and they redid the Mike and Eearphones for a reasonable price. ANR is great but it costs more, I cant hear doo-doo anymore and never did listen to what I was told.
Had a friend here throw a sweet paint job on
www.smokinpaint.com and got a neat liplight from
www.seitzinc.com
It will outlast my flying career....
There are lots of SPH's out there on the internet and with a little love can be like new cheaper.........notice I said cheaper than buying New.
Start by looking on
www.ebay.com I have seen a few there from time to time...........Buyer Beware.