now i'm using pvc with an aluminum yoke. i have broken two hotsticks. i ran over a friend in a laser when my last one slipped while i was trying to bear off behind him. the extension was cracked i think because i sat on it... my pvc extension is flexible so it doesn't break, its lightweight, it's water tight and floats with a pvc end cap. it doesn't conduct electricity. its more comfortable than aluminum. it extends forward to the shrouds (about 90" long) so its just long enough for me to steer from the trap. it has proven to be durable: i've been using it for a couple of years and i sail a lot- a couple of times a week, year round...But it isn't legal. i still have my old fiberglass 'legal' one.