Photocraig

Some quick thought modifiers here.
1. I think you're underestimating your camera/lens weight. Check your numbers. But I get the idea that your rig is modestly mid weight.
2. I have found that with similar up and down limitations that using the twisty screen and Live View--or the phone remote app, I can get some pretty low angle shots, while tripod mounted. AND, even full leg height shots using the screen to look down rather than through the eyepiece.
3. For a tripod mounted camera, I find that using the eyepiece is limiting and distracting. In full daylight, do an Ansel Adams/ Ed. Weston imitation and throw your jacket over your head and really see your composition.

This will allow a lower cost smaller tripod, that is still stable, and, hopefully more thoughtfully composed and framed images.

Note: it is a battery burner, so get a couple of spares--a good investment, anyway.

cam.79 Loc: Gray, GA

I bought this one from Amazon, and I think it is pretty good. $120

Neewer Carbon Fiber 63"/160cm Tripod Monopod with 360 Degree Ball Head,1/4"Quick Shoe Plate,and Bubble Level Including Carrying Bag for DSLR Camera,Video Camcorder,Load Capacity 33lbs/15kg

GrandmaG Loc: Flat Rock, MI

I just finished reading the first article and although I didn’t quite go through the number of legs and heads mentioned in the article, I just bought my third tripod. My choice is over the OPs budget; but this will be my last tripod. I made two trips to the camera store before I was satisfied.

I ended up with Sirui carbon fiber legs (or sticks, as the salesman called them) and a ProMaster (store brand) ball head with Arca Swiss plates. Total cost? Just over $500. I considered Gitzo legs and a RRS ball head, but balked at the price, easily double what I paid.

I will be selling my Manfrotto 190 as soon as I take pictures of it to post.

rick_n_wv Loc: Charleston WV

Unless you are going to be seriously hiking forget the light weight stuff. Mobility issues means trouble walking on uneven ground, up and down or just getting around. I purchased an Manfroto 3021 in either 2006 or 2007. I went through knee problem, then surgeries and now even clumsiness. I have used it to go up/down banks, as a aid in getting up and something to catch myself when falling. It is heavy but you just can't hurt it and I am sure it has saved me injury on multiple occasions. I don't worry about hiking with it because I couldn't anyway. Short hikes are ok but it is heavy. After 12-14 years of heavy use with a fat old man using it as a prop it is still going strong. Meanwhile my grandson in his twenties goes through one every 2-3 of years, some were much more than you are talking about. But then he hasn't tried carbon.

LittleBit Loc: St. Louis, MO

I'm not a professional photographer. I purchased the Zomei(M3)Professional Tripod off Amazon. I caught mine on sale for $59. It's on sale now for $77.XX and if you apply for an Amazon credit card you can get it for $29.XX. Regularly priced at $89.XX. It has a maximum capacity of 33 lbs., Maximum Height 62.5", Lightweight Aluminum Alloy, 360 degree Ball head, Monopod, Quick Release Plate, two bubble levels, Carrying Bag, for Canon/Nikon/Samsung /Phone and Camcorder. You can check it out and see what you think.