My first one was about 2 months, and Gardiners replaced it straight away, then the second section from the bottom split after about 3-4 months, but again Gardiners replaced that section for me. I have had to cut the 3rd section down by about 70mm as that had started to split also. To be honest, i rush around all day, and it does take a beating. So for the money in my opinion, they are worth every penny, great pole, light and very easy to use. If i had not ordered one of Alex's poles, i would of put it in the bin by now and bought another.