The metal bands imo massively reduce wear but we've snapped about 3 or 4 metal banded sections now. Been using the X3 and wouldn't go back to an X2 now. Getting around 10-12 months plus out of a 22ft extreme i use daily with literally the only maintenance being a wash down IF it needs it. For the price they are and what you earn from them i class it as a throw away item now.
My WFP expenses have massively slowed down now as i no longer have to try brushes, water on/off devices, poles, chemicals, etc etc as i'm happy with my set up.
i still have an x1 extreme 47ft i use for commercial and solar panels. Its not as rigid as other extremes but i do take care on that one. Looks brand new still