1.)The metal pads will last the longest (I want one)

2.) The really cheap 20 dollar pads wear out quickly

3.) Getting the dance pads with the zipper in foam liner makes dancing way more comfortable

4.) Some of the better pads (around the 80 dollar price range) are so sensitive you will do better if you don't stand in the center of the pad, but balance between moves on the left and right arrows.

5.) No pad is effective when your dog is also trying to dance on the pad at the same time. (She just doesn't get it, it looks like so much fun, why can't she play also?)

Suggestion:

If you are not sure how much you will play start with a pad in the 30 dollar range that has zip in foam padding. If you find you will play it a lot, try to get a metal one.

Metal ones are the only ones to wear shoes with.