My perspective is good gear means lighter gear. Does it make up for the fact, that I only get the time too backpack twice a year? Well, being as I am not in great condition! I wont say bad but not great! The good gear weighs less, and has definatly made backpacking more enjoyable too me! Last year i felt much better hiking with 8 to ten pounds less gear than the year before. Good gear is expensive. Myself, like most people cant afford to do it over night. As I have slowley acheived good gear, I appreciate and desire to use it even more. Make up for skill? I am sure it helps. I do feel at work or at play there is no replacement for experience!