Taking A Closer LookThe pad is available in a few different designs. These are "Cyborg", "Celtic Arms", "Asian Swords", "Special Ops" and "Works". Each of them are very pretty, however, due to the fact that I am a huge FPS fan, I chose the "Special Ops" pad. For those of you that do not like any of these designs, you are also able to order a custom Gaming Mat with the logo of your choice at an increased price.
The Gaming Mat has measurements of 8" x 10.5" x 1/16" (Height/Width/Depth). This is slightly smaller than its predecessor, the Everglide Giganta, which measures in at 9.5" x 11.5" x 1/4" (Height/Width/Depth). The pad also features a .012" textured vinyl surface which sits on top of a 1/32" rubber base. The vinyl layer covering the logo ensures that it will not wear off over time. It also allows easy cleaning of the pad with any ordinary cleaning detergent.
One of the first things I noticed when taking the pad out of its packaging was that it looks quite similar to the old but classic, 3M pad. However, you will be pleased to know that unlike the 3M pad, the rubber base of the Everglide Gaming Mat ensures that it will stay planted on your desk at all times during use.
The thing that plagued traditional mousepads was the fact that their cloth surface tended to collect dust, which then got stuck to the mouse ball and hindered smooth movement. Obviously though, people with optical mice would not be affected by this. Nevertheless, you will not have to worry about this problem with the Everglide Gaming Mat because it features a hard, ridged surface that doesn't collect dust.
One complaint I did have about this pad was that it is very floppy and thus, highly bendable. Without much pressure you can put a big crease through the pad. This however, is easily fixed after a night of pressure under a heavy object such as a phone book.
