Have bought loads of Brodex in the past, expensive, heavy but long lasting, i have a pole which is now 5 years old and still ok, doesn't get used much now though as its a pig.
Recently went over to Gardiners poles and have to say, I wish i'd done it sooner, still expensive but the lightness and stiffness of the poles is nothing short of amazing and the aftersales, advice and non pushy sales (yes paddy, i know if I don't buy it today i'll miss out.) is a breath of fresh air.
So Gardiners it is for me.
Steve a