I don't agree with using sword and board fury all the time but I do agree that it is highly under rated.
It goes along with people gearing for max damage while leveling, it's a horrible idea. Make sure you are wearing mail and plate after 40 with some stam on it. Try to avoid items that are only strength or strength/agi. The extra survivability helps a TON.
If you kill something 10 seconds slower but can live for 20 seconds longer, you are way ahead.
I always have my tank gear and my DPS gear. If it's going to be a tough fight (multiple mobs or an elite) then I put on a bit more tank gear. If it's going to be easy (single mob pulls, 2-3 levels lower) then I go full DPS gear.