If there is one piece of gear where I prefer the cheaper models to the more expensive ones it is poles. The Joystick Spicolli Pole is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to a cheap pole. Other that the baskets being a little on the small side they are perfect. Made from 6061 aluminum with a handle grip that is shaped just right for your meat hooks the Spicolli is both cheap and durable. They also have a good balance and swing weight to keep your turns looking sweet.
The reason I prefer cheap poles is that the expensive ones are usually made from carbon fiber and they have too much rebound when you make a pole plant. This causes your arm to spring backwards, for you to lose balance and for you to look like a beater. Another reason expensive poles suck is that they are broken, lost or stolen just as easily as the cheap ones. So unless you are some fancy racer I would recommend buying the Spicolli Pole. They come in a wide variety of colors including Green/White, Black/White and Yellow/ Red.
Check them out here: Backcounty.com
