To be fair, Crumpler don't fall apart either, and they actually look nice unlike most "proper" photo bags.
It depends really on your expectations - an amateur may well want something that looks sexy, and is a nice bit of luggage to boot, whereas a "pro" will of course have different priorities.
They don't fall apart, but they don't wear well compared to the better quality stuff (I say this from experience), sure they are better than your generic cheapy budget stuff from Jessops or whatever, and for what it is crumpler stuff is ok. I have a crumpler laptop semi hard (ooh er missus) shell case thats been alright, but the main thing for me is, I think the level of protection they offer is somewhat lacking compared to the higher quality brands.
Plus my Kata bag is supremely comfortable, amazing soft memory type foam stuff in the straps, with breathable lining, plush padded back, etc etc..
I haven't tried anything that comes close apart from other Kata bags, in terms of comfort.
As you said it depends what you want what your priorities are etc, for me its all about the function, durability, and I couldn't care less how it looks as long as its black/another generic dark colour, protects my gear, and lasts a long time.
But thats just my perspective, and opinion if you want a sexy piece of luggage then you probably don't need the tank like durability, and functions etc that I am going on about, so just ignore me and get whatever you think looks nice
