After a head on collision with a tree last night resulting in a snapped brake lever, i've decided to change brakes. Currently using older saints which have been great but are looking a bit tired now. LBS reccommended hope tech m4 (well they would at that price) which are tempting, but after seeing i could get some SLX or XT brakes at just over half the price of the hopes, i'm not sure.

Are the hope's that much better?
Anything else i should consider?

Original saints are ace, who cares what they look like.

They have been great brakes but the lever has snapped at the bar clamp. Might try and get hold of a replacement lever instead. Doubt I'll get one to match though.

Other.

Namely, XTs from ribble cycles.