ARTISAN SHIDENKAI (Snow White/S) [FX-SK-XS-S-W] FX XSOFT (Japan Import)

This is the smoothest feeling non hard pad I have used so far.It is much faster than the Hien. I feel like that it is actually as fast as a hard pad but with the added benefit of control. You don't get the kind of stopping power you have on the Artisan Zero or the Artisan Hien but I feel like it has a more consistent feel than other "fast" pads I have tried.Other notes:This item is the real deal. It ships flat in a cardboard mailer. I like how they treat their product with respect without trying to hide an inferior product with dressed up packaging either.Shidenkai is a cloth infused surface material that is smooth feeling to the hand. Whereas the Hien pad has a coarse texture weave, this pad has none of that. It will not irritate even the most sensitive of skins.Other note:The black rubber surface underneath is extremely grippy. The pad will not slide on my solid walnut desk. If I could make a suggestion before placing it:1. Wipe down the area of dust2. Use microfiber cloth to dust first3. Use distilled water (can buy a gallon at supermarket for a buck) and dampen a microfiber towel and wipe down the surface again. By not using solvents or tap water, there is no residue or anything left behind to affect the rubber on the mouse pad4. Wait until completely dry and place the mousepad on the area5. The pad will not move, when you try to lift a corner it sounds and feels like peeling off a sticker...Artisan mousepads are very expensive but I believe in the product and I believe in supporting the company so I think they are worth it. They add enjoyment and thus value every time I use it (and I use my computer a lot so....)If you can afford the luxury, upgrades in inputs (keyboards, mouse, mousepad) are often overlooked but worth it because it is what we touch and use every single time we interact with our very expensive machines.Plus this seller was very fast and I love how it SHIPS FLAT (the edges won't be curled) and well protected!