They also feel very light and nimble for their size so there's that.
Sand laden soil is ideal for steel bases for both their abrasive qualities in keeping the steel clean, and not sticking to the metal.and retaining moisture in the metal.
Exactly what an alloy base does not need. I've seen photos of a VC Sports eroded right through because of sandy soil under the deck.

Ahh, if only victa had kept producing the thumblatch catcher series, they would be in better shape today!