I have a pair of Asian (Chinese or Taiwan) panniers now, that aren't super-cheap but are obviously not all that large nor built to last for many years.

I have a custom rear rack made this summer of welded titanium tubing (Black Sheep Bicycles in Ft. Collins, Colorado) that's super-durable and light as a feather. In fact, I had a friend who weighs over 300 lbs. sitting on the titanium rear rack the other day and not a creek or squeak. So, I know I can hang some serious weight back there. Now just to find panniers that can carry the load without ripping out or tearing... And to build the legs capable of powering the load up some hills!

Have any of you had any problems with your panniers failing during a road trip?