What one's opinion is, is probably created by what one is exposed to.

I happen to hang out with the crowd that thru-hikes the PCT, which has been the incubator for much of ultralight philosophy, starting with PCT luminary Ray Jardine.

Take the example of "Warner Springs Monty" Tam, whose base weight is famously under 5 lbs (not including food, water, hiking poles).

He has completed the 2,600 mile PCT four times. There has been NO weather condition that he has not encountered, and he has not had to be rescued, because he was PREPARED.

http://www.trailjournals.com/about.cfm?trailname=14986

Or "Flyin Brian" Robinson, who has completed the PCT, AT, and CDT, all in one year, over 7,000 miles of hiking.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Robinson_(hiker)

Now an ultramarathoner, he set the 2008 record in the insane event known as the Barkley Marathons:

"Since the race's inception in 1986, only fourteen runners out of about 800 have completed the 100 mile race" One year, 30 out of 35 did not make the first checkpoint, 2 miles.

http://www.metropulse.com/stories/features/barkley-marathons-toughest-race-youve-never-heard

How did he do this? He was prepared. I know both of these guys, and more prepared guys you've never met.