After much searching, we ended up buying our luggage at Costco...two 26" Kirkland expandable trolleys (pullman's). Supposedly 20% lighter than they used to be. We also bought two Ricardo rolling duffle bags that I have my doubts about. The handle seems a bit flimsy. TJ Maxx had High Sierra and Victrolix (sp?) duffles but Alan liked the Ricardo one. If it breaks, I can say "I told you so" ;) .

We looked at better pullman's but it seemed that the nicer they were, the heavier they were. Bought a lightweight Travel Gear from TJ to compare with the Kirkland one. No comparison. The Travel Gear was very lightweight but not well made so back it went.

I know what you mean about misfit luggage. None of ours matches anymore. Wouldn't matter anyway. Alan puts colored masking take all over our checked bags. We can sure tell when our bags are on the carousel. Not pretty but works good!