I wouldn't get to into the ultralight backpacking. My base weight is around 16lbs, which for me is light weight backpacking. At that point the only real area i can cut weight is in my pack/tent/bag/ misc items. My pack weights 3lbs and the bag is 2.7lbs with a tent just under 2lbs. I could see that advantage if you were thru hiking because one could carry more food for longer hikes and still be at a very light weight.

For me i like my weight, all the gear is durable and i have everything i need to hike. Plus i mostly hike in to fish so i am not moving camp day by day. Part of gear choice(has been said) is all about your hiking "style"? If you up camp every day, maybe the simpler lighter gear is a better fit.

I would say it is super easy to get base weight down to 20lbs, biggest areas i cut weight in was bag/tent/pack/stove. Another big part is figuring out the misc gear to take.

Anyway its all a personal thing.