10-mans are being designed to last an hour, and the badge and pvp gear go a long way to alleviate the need for raids.
That said - those that -do- have the time and inclination to work to the 25-man raids should have the best gear, there can be no argument about that. You can still get very good gear and never step foot in a raid.
An example for warlocks but it's the same for all classes.