As for the ship name thing per slot. thats dumb. Its still the same ship with a different loadout. Its like a username for every class and preset.
That is dumb. It is not the 'same ship' to everyone, any more than everyone flying a Spire has the same Spire, even though they are identical. This plays into the suspension of disbelief. If it is not the way you play, well, that does not matter. Most people are not you, don't play like you, and don't buy like you (as you have proven).
Also, people having a different opinion and wanting to buy other things that you don't like is not dumb, and saying it is is insulting.
The more cosmetic and unique something is, the more reason to make it purchase only. That is how a good economy works.
I am not a completionist. I get what I want. Since I already had what I want (through winning and buying), I did not even turn in the free items for the VIP games. I think I had six or so coming. If there were items that could only be bought, such as slots, poses, and tool skins, I would be spending more money on the game. If they were winnable, I would be more likely to try to get them that way. Personally, I have a different name for each of my ship builds, and would likely buy at least 3 extra slots for each ship (other than Pyra. Rarely fly that.) It would be very easy to see at a glance what ship loadout you have. I like that convenience, and would pay for it.