WOW, this is quite a thread. There is a whole lot I could say, but how about this for one thing (in addition to what has already been said)...

OK, you say you are friends ALSO with the wives of these guys (or aquiants etc.)? Umm, what happens if the WIVES start talking to you ALSO or mention something, ask your opinion, etc.

That is where the guys reaaally need to get a big dose of stfu medicine. If they have any brains what so ever, any respect for you as a friend/aquiant, etc. they ***should*** understand if you mention how ackward/uncomfortable this topic would be if presented by their SO...

Like... are ya suppose to lie for them? Tell the truth? Fumble the question... and maybe have their wives brains start working overtime as to why you are having trouble answering?

Ahh, yea... that's got all kinds of possibilities to it *shudders*.