I've seen Bric's at Macy's but the one in your picture seems to indicate there's no shell at all although it says soft-shell.

The older and discontinued Bric's always seem to be sold at significant discounts but, looking at them, I personally decided against it. I felt the build quality just wouldn't last. Although much of their line is premium priced, the build quality/materials didn't seem to match.

As for your requirements of 16 long-haul flights over a few months, I'd suggest something a little more sturdier or something with a rock-solid warranty.