I like the pole; however, the pole bent while experiencing winds less than 45 mph. I normally take it down on any type of windy day but did not have the opportunity on this particular day. The piece (second from the bottom) had to have the bend cut cut out of it in order to slide the other pieces through due to the bend in the pole. The pole was less than three years old. In order to repair it, I had to purchase a new piece and pay shipping for it. Luckily, I have the equipment and experience to fix it myself. Most people would not have the tools to repair it.