I had one from the first batch and its still going strong. Went back for the service Alex was doing on them, and it came back like a new pole. I wash it through 1-2 times per week, and every time i put the pole back in the van, i wipe the pole hose ready for the next job. I haven't really noticed too much wear, and i maybe have to tighten up the top clamp every couple of days. I have been really impressed with the pole, its light, rigid, strong and you can do up's and downs with it. If it broke tomorrow i would buy another. I would probably be on my 3rd X-tel pole by now, so for me it was worth the £400.00.