Howdy,
I have been riding with K&N filters on my bikes (3) for many years 10+. Learn to maintenance them (filter cleaner) and get an even coat of oil post cleaning (thats the key to maximizing the filters capacity). I had my first bike for five years, rode the crap out of it, literally, and sold it with a clean concience. The filters are superior to foam (my group of riders opinion). Maintenance is required, and they are paper, keep that in mind. If you ride in mud all day, it might not be the best idea. It has been shown that K&N filter allow for greater flow, this is not a question. The question is the protection provided. With that said, I ride the dunes almost exclusively. I do not cross through water unless it is with caution. I do ride the beaches and pass across wet surfaces occasionally. I dont run any air box, Straight clamp on, less impedence to flow. This is quite common with sand riders. If you ever get a chance to head to the dunes, feel free to ask people. >75% will run K&N
Enough of my opinion. I had read the post and figured it was worth my time to offer my two cents.