I decided to buy the Swix Elite Poles because I needed a tougher pole that would hold up in the backcountry. recently I was on a pretty tough trail and I punched thru the top layer and bent the pole. I fully expected to pull the pole out and have it broken. To my surprise it was only bent and when I tried to straighten it the pole had already corrected. This aluminum alloy is an amazing material, it seems to have memory and upon distortion will return to the original shape. I was impressed. Having a pole break in the backcountry half way on a 12 mile loop is a little more challanging than what I enjoy. The straps are very comfortable and they detatch when you need to take a break. I love these poles.

Poles and baskets are good, the straps looked good but lasted for only three ski's, (about six hours) and pulled apart from the retainer clip. Perhaps I received a defectve pair ??? They also are apparently made for midgets because the largest size is tight for me, even barehanded, and I'm not oaf-sized.
I do like the WR400 baskets which have almost as much flotation as the round powder baskets without dragging as much snow or snagging of brush and branches.
Good poles, good baskets, great 'Barbie' straps.

I bought the Swix Elite poles because I live in the pacific northwest and spend as much time in the backcountry as I do on groomed trails. (My dog loves snow and unfortunately dogs aren't allowed on groomed trails.) I'm also a heavier set guy when it comes to cross-country. Collapsible poles just don't cut it when you're trying to push off or right yourself. (They collapse.) Cheaper poles sometimes snap in half - or the plastic grips and wrist strap just becomes uncomfortable by the end of the day. The grips on these is awesome! And the innovative new wrist straps are super comfy and disconnect with a push of a button on top of the grip. I don't have to fuss with the straps - just tighten them once and then you can pop the poles on and off at will. Overall the poles are super light and as far as I can tell pretty strong. I'll update you if I manage to break them.