[denverpete]

Downshifting just to save your brakes is stupid. Downshifting because you like to downshift is simply your perogative. If you choose not to downshift, you definately need to time your stops. Shifting into neutral isn't necessarily a good idea (well - at least in Colorado in the Mountains). Downshifting is certainly acceptable on the hills where you can save your brakes from overheating by using engine braking to hold your speed.

I grew up on the whole "work the gears and downshift thingee" and I haven't seen extreme clutch wear with previous vehicles. However, the Boxster does seem to eat clutches quite a bit more than any other vehicle I've had. Perhaps it's that insanely long "take-up".

Bottom line is it's your dime. If you enjoy it and you don't mind the potential cost -who cares?