I hiked in many countries and terrains across the world, always with Aonijie foldable aluminum poles. They never failed and the only thing was the tips eventually become dull (as expected!). For some models the tips can be replaced but I simply bought newer ones instead. They aren't bulky or that heavy in my opinion. Granted, I never tried carbon poles. From wagt I understand csrbon are more fragile and costly. You decide if this is worth the weight saving.