I have a summit that about 13yrs old and still looks ok. I just let my friends use it. I think it has alot to do with the maker of it. The better built stands can last alot longer tha the cheaper ones. I cannot understand how some one would let some off brand or cheap climber take hes or her life in there hands. those $69.95 stands at wally world look like it. My life is worth more than just trying to save bucks. If u cant afford a higher price one put it on layaway. I`ll stick with a proven track record and the higher price ones.