...for those who poo poo low gearing, there is very much a macho htfu thing that comes into play, but you'll be easier on your knees and it's pretty damn simple, if you don't need first gear, shift up, it's that easy--BUT all of us who tour self supported with full gear,we know there is the odd time when it's just really nice to have low gears, and you're going to be stronger and faster overall if you don't lug down your legs....
it seems with the technology level for deraillers and gearing, if you're gonna be in the mountains AND carry a heavy load, you're not gonna easily be able to get a range with reasonable steps that has a super-low AND a super high gear. you gots to make a choice.
it's not that you have to choose between pedaling uphill or cranking downhill. the actual choice is PUSHING uphill OR coasting down.