Originally Posted by KrisYYC

I have been working on the ramp for over 20 years for a major airline so I've see all types of luggage from all brands. The only brand I've never seen break, tear, or lose a wheel is Tumi. All the brands you listed are quite good as well and should be fine for most people. And you're right to avoid clamshell because when they blow open they REALLY blow open. I personally prefer soft shell because if they get damaged it's usually cosmetic or repairable. When hard shell cases get damaged it's more often than not a complete shattering of the exterior or the whole suitcase blows up and the contents spill out.

Tumi, Briggs and Riley make the best soft sided suitcases in my opinion. The Aluminum Rimowa's are tanks too. Downside to all these of course is price and weight (quality materials weigh more).

Also Rollaboards are much more robust than Spinners.