I have the extreme 35 an 47, I use the 47 quite a lot, I read above about the clamping points and the first time I used It I thought the same, this only lasts for the first day as u adapt to it no probs, orange band is half way an the red band is fully extended.
I do really like these poles and anyone who isn't happy with there's ....... I will take it off them at second hand prices.