I love presta valves...buy decent quality tubes (I get the cheapest ones from Jensonusa.com or Pricepoint.com, they are heavy but durable) and have had ONE valve rip out, entirely my fault for not being more...gentle
I have been using them for 9 years now, and only like them more each time. Just push in the valve core first before pumping to break the valve seal so you dont break a pump (I love lifetime warranties on pumps!).
I actually hate schrader valves on bikes now. I have one bike that takes them and it will be given to my dad if he wants it.