Probably true to a point. We are getting "softer" as civilization advances. But taking the argument further, Nelson's "iron men" and Napoleon's Old Guard were wimps compared to someone like Hernan Cortes, who conquered the Aztec empire with just a handful of conquistadors. And neither would compare favorably to Leonidas and his 300 Spartans...

I'll be the first to agree that we're getting increasingly reliant on technology in general. Probably far too much for our own good. But idealizing the past is not the solution either. I don't think it would be a smart decision to deliberately deprive oneself of the advantages offered by new technologies, gear and materials.

Case in point, I'm sure the traditional bedroll has many uses. But realistically, I fail to see what benefits it has to offer over the more modern solutions. A modern sleeping bag provides better protection from the elements overall. As far as a means of load carrying, I'd much rather haul my gear in a proper backpack, which allows me to carry more weight more comfortably, in a more organized, easily accessible manner and in a pretty much waterproof package.

I'm sure 19th c. grunts were tough mean bastards - but if I have any choice, I'd much rather stick with a proper sleeping bag and backpack these days as opposed to the good old greatcoats and bedrolls. And I'm probably not alone here - when push comes to shove, how many of us would honestly prefer the Brown Bess musket to a modern centerfire rifle, or a flint and steel to a ferro rod (or even a butane lighter)?

I believe it's a great idea to experiment with traditional gear, simply to test its strenghts and limitations. That said, the idea of spending $300 on a bedroll makes me cringe. Looks like somebody is making a good buck there, never thought the "traditionalist" outdoors market could be so lucrative.