I voted "somewhat important". Personally, I'd like to get out of the bars and out into the open world a little more. IC dungeon runs, IC hunts, or just running around in the world in character. Being a higher level lets you go to more dungeons and safely navigate other places without the threat of death. I'm level 41 now, and while I'm a little tired of being a Coerthas errand boy for the Scions, I've also been able to go to some amazing places in the game that I wouldn't have been able to explore without being clobbered.
I wouldn't judge anyone based on their gear. I personally don't have the patience or desire to do extensive grinding for any gear, and I tend not to like endgame gear in any game because it's often pretty over the top.
I wouldn't judge anyone based on their gear. I personally don't have the patience or desire to do extensive grinding for any gear, and I tend not to like endgame gear in any game because it's often pretty over the top.