I think having a rule against considering lifetime warranties is taking it too far. If a company believes in its product to the extent they offer lifetime replacement, it stands to reason that consumers can "buy it for life".
Sure there will be schemers who offer this deal to make short-term money, knowing full well they plan to fold. That's why I think it's important to look at both the product and company history before shelling out on something, and all of that makes for good discussion around here.