is it a good idea to learn omaha 8 by playing with much better players?

I used to think that it was not a good idea as I dealt to the players that have been playing the game for 40 or more years. However, I have since figured out that it made me a better omaha player by playing against people that could easily be pros. What do you think about this?

stick to dealing to them... when you've learned enough to beat softer players, then you can consider playing the tougher ones.

Can't hurt to try out the waters if you are only risking a VERY small % of your BR. I just wouldn't think about playing them daily until I was sure I could beat them.

No. Learn from them by asking questions and watching. Learn to beat the fish