I recently decided to take up the exercise known as 'Nordic walking' which uses trekking poles. I did a lot of research before purchasing the Trail Buddys. I looked at low to high priced poles 19.99 - 89.99. Price wasn't the only factor in ultimately selecting the Trail Buddys. I did consider reviews, tips included, type of grips, warranty etc. I am VERY happy with these poles. The cork grips are comfortable, the mechanisms for shortening/lengthening are very well made and easy to use, a good variety of tips although I'll only be using the rubber tips for Nordic walking. I really like how lightweight they are, so easy to manipulate while walking. But one of the very best things I love about these poles is the customer service from this family-owned business. They contacted me within a couple of weeks after the purchase to see if I was enjoying the poles and to ask if I had had any problems, or had questions. I was really wowed by the personal touch, don't get enough of that these days. I've been using the poles for around 6 weeks now, couldn't be more pleased with my purchase.