The days of finding a HARD shell suitcase seem to be gone.  When I first got the suitcase, I was extremely disappointed with the "thin" plastic.  However, when you fill the suitcase with clothes, it seems strong enough.  On the plus side, with today's airlines charging fees for overweight items, at least the suitcase itself minimizes the risk of going overweight.  Also, I was impressed by the improved locks/latches.  I bought this suitcase because TSA broke both the lock and the latches in my old Samsonite.  Over all, I hope it holds up, and the latch on the "underside" may cause you to reach for it a few extra times.