My thoughts on my Aquatech housing for my 1D:
+ clear back piece so I can see the o-ring and see the inside the housing to check for water leaks
+ there's a water sensor that beeps if it senses moisture
+ buttons on the back allow me to adjust 90% of all the settings on my camera
+ multiple different lens ports can be attached so I can shoot with a 15mm, 70-200mm, etc
+ I can attach a pole w/ shutter release to the bottom and a flash housing to the top
+ floats
- expensive
- heavy (though my opinion may be skewed since I shoot w/ a heavy camera)
- accessories are expensive
- buttons on back can be bent if it isn't stored/transported with care
- rated for 30 feet depth so you can't dive with it
Yes, Aquatechs and SPLs and other high end housings are expensive, but they're worth it IMO if you're going to use your camera in the housing a lot. I really like the piece of mind in being able to see inside the housing and see the o-ring. That way if there's ever any water that gets in I'll know pretty quick and I might be able to save the camera.
Another option would be to have a housing made by Jim Bailey at
www.waterhousings.com. He seems to have good prices and he's made gear for some of the pro wake photogs. This might be a viable option for you if you want a housing that will be usable and wont break the bank. Perhaps someone with one of his housings will chime in.