Is Armada going to last? Is Line going to last? Is 4frnt, Ninthward, Libery, Faction, and the rest of the new upstart ski companies going to 'last'? Who really knows. I really hope they do, and you know you do too. I agree a 'pole is a pole' in the basic sense, but there are many different models, materials and forms of a 'pole'. If you are going to buy a pole, and plan on getting a stronger, nice and light durable, good looking, rubber gripped pole you will be paying the same price, or more. (Unless you are a penny pincher that must search for the best deal, or harass sales people like you are in tijuana for a special 'deal') These poles are the same price, so get over that. Unfortunately, they cannot go around producing many models of poles because the cost is too much, it is much easier to produce mass amounts of one thing, rather then a few(which actually makes it a bit cheaper for you). But wait, they want to produce a pole that is better looking, that is durable, that has a lightweight feel, that has very good rubber grip for grabbing rather then creating crap for you, yet you must hate. I am not saying GO BUY JOYSTICK, but your words make no sense. I much rather work the extra few hrs, and put a few bucks in the pocket of a person and company that is putting ALL of the money back into the sport you love, directly affecting the pros you all die to watch on the screen, at competitions, and in your little magazines. Why talk like you are too cool for the sport you love being a part of?