anyone know about hip resurfacing v hip replacement?

[gfred]

I am scheduled for hip replacement surgery on 3/5/07. I'm a 59 year old man who is very active and likes to hike, bike, swim, rollerblade, lift weights and garden...I've heard that hip resurfacing is for people 55 and under but I think my activity profile fits that category more - does anyone know about the pros and cons of this procedure as compared to a minimally invasive total hip replacement surgery? Also, if I have the total hip replacement, I can't decide between the new crosslinked plastic or metal prostheses, and my surgeon has left the decision up to me. Anyone have an opinion on either one?