Giottos carbon fiber tripod any good?

I purchased a Giottos carbon fiber tripod a few months ago (without ever trying one). After using it for a week of shooting, I have to say that I do not like it. The legs do not telescope easily .... and they are impossible to extend or retract if they are damp (from fog or mist). Plus, the Giottos ballhead is tedious to use ... two turn knobs have to be used everytime you want to adjust the camera.

Did I go wrong? Or is there a way to deal with these issues? Or should I look at replacing it with another brand at some point in the future?