[mst]

I once learned in a different forum (or was it here?) that there are three main categories that define a tripod:

1. Strength/capacity
   
   
2. Low weight/Small size (folded)
   
   
3. Low price
   
   
   
   

You can choose any two, but not all three.



Personally, I went for the Gitzo Traveler (mine is a GT1541, the current one is called GT1542). It's good enough in the field regarding list item 1 (not recommended to fully extend the legs and the center with a long lens or in anything other than still air), certainly great regarding item 2 but doesn't really qualify for 3.



Note that it's just a tripod and you'd also need a good head. And maybe some sort of quick release solution (personal preference, though).



Some less expensive, but still high quality brands to consider as alternatives are Velbon and Feisol.



-- Markus