I totally agree with you, having about 20 full & part-time years as an outfitting pro, fit, fit, fit & load distribution is the most important. NOT the color or the recient trend nor the lightweights. Personally would not trade my old Lowe Contour IV or my Vaude Terkum. And......I have never ever used a scale to pack what i carry on my back...my brain is the scale and common sense is my forte.