At least part of the reasons some hiking poles are more expensive are the craftsmanship and materials that enhance the weight to strength ratio. The lighter the poles, the better they feel over long miles.
I have used several makes and models of poles over the years and am currently using Black Diamond Alpine carbon fiber poles with the flick locks for years now. My old Lekis used to collapse during snow hikes but the flick locks have never budged.
A pair of poles makes negotiating the rough terrain and canyon country much easier, safer and faster. In those places where scrambling is necessary the poles collapse and ride on the side of the pack. They do take a lot of weight and impact off the legs and knees and add stability on the more precarious surfaces. The straps on the poles are used as much as the handles for locomotion and power.