We have had both types over the years and have used our awnings in some pretty bad conditions - each supported the awning without problems. The only advantage to aluminium is the lack of weight - disadvantage is the additional cost
------------- hawk
"Laugh and the world laughs with you, snore and you sleep alone"
I have the body of a greek god - its in my freezer
Alloy every time for tents and awnings. Only one bent pole in 40+ years, and it was easily fixed till replaced.
Our first frame tent was a Black's Safari Emperor with an alloy frame - exactly as used as base camp in Everest expedition in early seventies. Good enough for me.
Strong, lightweight, no rust - no contest
Jim
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Thanks so much everyone. I'm really grateful for all the replies. I've got another question about awnings now, which I'm about to post. But meantime I think we'll go with the steel poles.