you need to consider the actual design of your mouse skates as well if your using a softer pad like the ARTISAN 'soft'.
For example, larger skates will distribute pressure over a larger area, making the pad able to resist more downward force relative to how far the skates will 'dig' in. Some of the new mice come with skates that are really small and will do the exact opposite. Another factor with a really soft pad is the bottom of your mouse, if your skates are 1mm thick then you will understand as you play the bottom of the mouse will also rub on the pad more. If you have thicker skates, they will simply dig in more and create further resistance.
Again, all this really depends if you can always play with a light hand. I cant, so it's not for me.
A quick note on the GSR, the surface is really slick, it allows your hand to glide over the pad just as well as the mouse. A PLUS in my books. I hated the GSR originally (the very high static friction) however i started using my favorite 'cleaner' on it. Mr Sheen, it contains all kinds of chemicals that make things shiny and repel dust! You just spray a LITTLE on a microfiber cloth and wipe it over. You will instantly see it feels completely different, i actually use this on all my pads.