I prefer balance over light weight, so I like a full grip. Weight behind the reel seat doesn't inhibit the blanks performance like adding weight out to the tip would. It just makes it a little heavier. But anyone who has ever fished with a 5 ounce rod that's really tip heavy, and a 7 ounce rod that's balanced will tell you the 7 ounce rod feels lighter in hand. I will take hypalon every time for it's durability. The guys who don't like foam say it looks cheap. I like the look, and don't really care what anyone else thinks about my rods. I palm my reels and don't really tuck the butt in my armpit like other guys, so that could have something to do with my preferences.
Grant