Before TSA, I bought with a Samonsite hardside case when checking luggage for longer trips (5-15 day international trips, mostly for vacation). Weighs nearly 16 pounds empty, but aside from a few scrapes and TSA breaking the locks, it has held up very well.

I've been looking for a new checked bag, seems like hardsides have entirely fallen out of favor? Are the new zip-close synthetic fabric bags really up to the rigors of long-distance long-duration travel, or do they still get chewed up by baggage handling systems? Nothing worse than being halfway through a multi-nation trip and having your suitcase come off the plane in two pieces (been there, done that, got a free t-shirt for my trouble).

We have Samsonite & Travelpro outlets (no sales tax), any other brands I should check out in person before buying? Delsey? Any "value" brands that even come close in durability to these?