Funny you should ask. I worried about that the whole time I was using them...but brother, if my 230 didn't wear out those joints on some pretty rough terrain, then they should last a while.

I like the shock absorber function, kept me from jarring my shoulders on the step downs. Yes, the compass is cheap, but hey, it's better than starring at your palm and trying to determine which way is north.

I think you'll find they are well worth the money. I was certainly glad to have them on that trip and they will go on the next one.

I did notice that my buddy has the same poles. Many hikes later, one of the joint tighteners has a small crack. Probably from overtightening, so you might watch that. He breaks his poles down after each hike, I got mine set at the height I like, so I'm leaving them there. Less chance for overtightening...and I don't have to get them set up again for the next hike.

An extra one in each vehicle might come in handy? hmmmm something to think about.