Out of the packaging it had a terrible smell but not noticeable while in use the next day. It is very comfortable and I wonder why I didn’t upgrade my mouse pad years ago. Just make sure you have room for the support beside your keyboard. My old flat mousepad was partially under my keyboard and had to be moved over.
Had to settle for this pad. It was the only one in the store. The wrist rest is described as "gel" but its hard to tell. My last pad had a much more softer gel wrist resting area. Still looking to buy a different mouse pad. Would not recommend for comfort; but better than nothing. Price was right.