[JSMC]

what is best to get out there?

brodex / extel or any others.

downside to brodex is large closed length

[LWC]

CLX hands down. I used a CLX 22 other day and i really liked it, i think i may get one. The 22 will be ok for you with your reach which is 26ft. I think its about £150 with brush and everything and really light.

http://www.gardinerpolesystems.co.uk/acatalog/CL-X.html

[JSMC]

do these poles not wear out in no time?

gotta admit i like my 17ft extel and has served me well

[LWC]

Im not sure mate, its carbon fibre and glass fibre, cant see it wearing any different to other poles...and extels are crap lol 

[dazmond]

22ft clx is fantastically light and a great short closed length!GET ONE!!its so much better and user friendly than the xtels!YOU WONT GO BACK TO THEM!!!

i have the brodex 25ft hydra as well.its also a great pole but not for use all day every day as the closed length is just over 6ft and its heavy!but its great for some higher work ive got or on windy days!!