Trust me, I had my doubts as well.
I should probably clarify a bit, on the track my white wheels turn to grey in something less than 2 laps. On the street, the pads only dust slightly more than my Stoptech Sport Compound pads I run normally, but not to the point I'd call it excessive. I am probably more acceptable to dust than others as I know it's a by-product of a good pad.
FWIW, I'm pretty newish to the 370z and this forums, but have competitively campaigned Subarus in rally for several years. On that car I've tried many many pads (Hawk DTC 60, Carbotech 10/12, Cobalt ZR2, Carbone Lorrane CL-6/8, and some Performance Friction). I have no problems ranking the Powerstop Track Day Specs solidly among those other products which cost significantly more. As a matter of fact, if Powerstop had the fitment for my rally car available, there would be a set of the track day spec pads in there to try further. Yes, my favorite pads still carry a hefty price tag (CL Brakes) but sometimes throwing ~$500 for a full set isn't in the cards for a consumable item on a street driven car which sees lapping or time attack.
Just like wine, spending big dollars does not always guarantee something exceptional. I'm sure we've all enjoyed excellent bottles for $8. Sometimes big dollar price tags are very much a part of marketing strategies. The same way that providing good parts at fair prices can be a strategy. We usually find the good, bad, and hidden gems by way of reviews and recommendations from family, friends, competitors, or sometimes forums
