If it's an advantage is there for everyone to take. and I also don't see it as a gear grind because pvp is fun.

Here's what you're missing.. reward and advancement. Victories, strategy, gut and skill should be rewarded in pvp with pvp gear and maybe a ranking system. it's makes players thrive for refinement and perfection. Reaching a level of pvp where gear is not the winning factor but it contributes to pvp gameplay outcome, along with skill and strategy.

Pvp gear and a possible open world pvp server or area should not be feared or attacked by our pve community. Nonsupporters of morale or openworld pvp simply can simply not set foot in there, simple.