Interesting observations. I've seen/talked to other hikers, and while the majority still do carry big-brand, big-weight packs and bombproof nalgenes, some people are at least aware of "those ultralight people". We're usually seen as those weirdos who pitch tarps with hiking poles. I do notice that chain sporting goods stores (like REI) mostly carry standard-weight gear, but will sometimes have a few token lightweight items for us who are in the minority of weight preference. A year ago I even saw a small line of "lightweight" hunting packs from Cabela's. At least we're on the radar.