The quote is always taken out of context (and then people wonder why developers don’t talk to their fans more). It was a conversation after 1.1 dropped when the drop rates of cosmetics were increased (and more cosmetics were added) from commendation chests. If you want the background, Hedge first responds near #159 here and says the line near #174. Not going to argue for either side, but the quote isn’t related to this issue.
But to be on topic. I have this ranger helmet and yeah it’s pretty bad. I struggled at first to tell the difference. I would’ve been happy if it at least had a different hairstyle or color to go along with it. Maybe it’s like the red weapons without runes, a work in progress? A glowing runed helmet would be pretty cool.