My Epi cases never went on the road so they haven't been put to the acid test.
Latches & handles always seem to be the weak link, even on pretty good cases.
But as you say, usually when one of 'em goes the case is still usable.
About ten of my cases are pre-1980, and I think only one of 'em...
I've been pretty happy for nearly ten years with the closed-back AudioTechnica ATH-M50x.
The bass isn't hyped like consumer headphones these days, but they aren't thin sounding to me.
They seem to have fairly neutral mids and IMO the highs are well-defined but not harsh.
I got cooling gel pads...
I have one of the Eden LP cases - no leopard lining in mine though.
They look great but aren't especially sturdy, even compared to standard Gibson cases.
Perfectly good for home use, storage or occasional gigging. Just not built for working musicians.
I wouldn't want to trust a good LP to one...