I go OEM filters all the way (and spark plugs! ) -most of the time they are within a few dollars of the after market and sometimes cheaper. -And in most cases they fit better and therefor perform better.
I like Purolator oil filters but the other day I tried to replace my Mustangs's air filter (K&N from previous owner) with a Purolator Pure One. I spent at least a half hour trying to lock the Air Box and the intake tubing with the Pure One installed in between. So frustrating I put the old filter back in, drove back to Advance Auto Parts and returned the Pure One for a Motorcraft (Ford OE) - it snapped back together instantly. Perfect fit, no gaps so unfiltered air could get in, 5 minute job. It was also $6 cheaper
As far as "High Flow filters" such as the K&N
I find it hard to believe they filter "better" and allow more air into the engine. -All other factors being equal (ie the size and volume of the intake plumbing) its impossible.
The K&N in my Mustang had very little usage, yet if you held it to the light you could see clearly gaps- Also, I found the screen that is right in front of the MAF to be slightly oily.
These are my observations, your experience may vary.