I'm pretty much on the same page as you. I use my poles on (1) steep grades (up or down), (2) rough ground and (3) river crossings. Sometimes those 3 conditions make up most of a trip, sometimes less than half. It all depends. Sometimes the poles will ride in my pack for hours but they're usually my shelter poles as well.

I would be curious to know where that guy's 3 sets of cheap poles failed.
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If you only travel on sunny days you will never reach your destination.*

* May not apply at certain latitudes in Canada and elsewhere.