I always use a mouse pad with gel wrist rest and I have never had any wrist pain. The reason I returned the Staples brand pad is because it was about two-thirds the size of my current mouse pad and I like the larger pad space. I always try to use the Staples brand products but this mouse pad was just a little too small for my needs.
I was looking for a mouse pad that would not leave marks on my desk and also comfort. I found it with this mouse pad. The gel is comfortable and doesn't make any disconmfort whatsoever.
The gel wrist rest is so comfortable. But the fact that its attached to the mouse pad and the traction underneath keeps everything in place takes this over the top! Also got the keyboard gel arm rest to match and it's an absolute game changer!