Boyt's Comfort Strap has a patented "control-stretch" backing that helps reduce uncomfortable neck and shoulder pressure and fatigue

H.I.T's Backpack from the Geoffrey Beene Sport Group

(CNN) -- Conventional wisdom says there's no need to reinvent the wheel. But some in the travel industry are trying -- they're trying to come up with a concept as popular as putting wheels on luggage has been.

"Wheels revolutionized the travel-goods business. And aside from a bag being able to pack or transport itself, there's no new major industry-wide innovation that will jump-start the next revolution," says Michele Marini Pittenger, a vice president with Luggage & Leather Goods Manufacturers of America.

"There is, however, an amazing number of industry refinements that deserve much attention. Companies are focusing their efforts on making travel easier, more comfortable, and hassle-free for travelers."

In other words, luggage ergonomics are getting more advanced, and manufacturers aren't forgetting to make them stylish.

The most common luggage-related complaint by travelers, according to Pittenger, is that suitcases are too heavy. Aside from packing lighter, travelers have new options to reduce stress on the body.

"There's definitely a strong focus on luggage and accessories that work harder and eliminate hassle for the traveler," says Pittenger. "Today's bags are 'healthier' than ever before -- ergonomically designed to take stress off the user's back, arms and shoulders."

Atlantic's Infinity Upright Pullman

Linway Global's Upright Suiter

For instance, Atlantic's Infinity II Upright Pullman transforms the weight of the suitcase from the arm and shoulder to the floor, while Linway Global's Upright Suiter allows users to pull it beside the hip to let them walk naturally.

And travelers who suffer sore shoulders from cutting straps on their bags may be pleased to learn of new developments on that front.

"Shoulder straps on backpacks and business cases are more comfortably-padded," says Pittenger. "All redistribute the weight of the bag so transporting it is less taxing on the traveler."

Boyt's Comfort Strap by OP/TECH USA is designed to take the stress off the traveler's back, and H.I.T.'S Backpack from Geoffrey Beene Sport Group uses a special strap harness to distribute weight evenly across the back and shoulders.

Pittenger says manufacturers are also tweaking existing ergo-features.

"Not just wheels, but in-line skate wheels; not just handles, but ergonomically-correct handles; not just nylon, but tougher, heavier ballistic fabrics; not just pockets and compartments, but multiple and expandable pockets and organizational compartments," Pittenger says.

Manufacturers aren't forgetting the importance of style for today's savvy travelers. While the color craze from previous years continues, there's a new movement toward shades of gray.

"The new colors for 1999 include a strong gray influence, with pewter being the most popular shade we see," says Pittenger. "The fashion industry is calling gray 'the new black.'"

But Pittenger says most consumers will stick with basic black, leaving most changes in luggage on the ergo-features, which will continue to be altered for increased comfort.

"Wheels (on luggage) only got the ball rolling. It's the refinements and improvements, year after year, that will keep consumers coming back for more," says Pittenger.