Bought some of this on a lark last summer during a period of extreme boredom. For starters, it is not soft nor squishy, as some refer to gel bar tape. It's firm and it dampens out the ride and get rid of vibration (for the entire bike). I did not use the pads for the drops as I don't think it's needed. It is relatively easy to apply, but it's easier if you tape down the pads with some electrical tape, otherwise it might shift while you are wrapping. If you are leery of gel tape but want something to take away the rough roads and smooth out the vibration, this is your huckleberry...note-I suggest you don't use the Fizik Glossy tape as I experienced my hands getting sweaty while climbing. Could be a problem if you have to make a fast change in hand position to avoid an obstacle of pot hole, try the Fizik Soft Touch instead. The big plus is it changes the shape of your bars. Might be a cheaper way rather than going to Deda 35.