If money is no object, Grovemade’s Wood Felt Studio Pad is the ultimate desk pad. It’s US$240, though it was being offered at an introductory price of $200 as I was writing this review.
The Studio Pad has a minimalist design that looks great even as it helps you organize your workspace As described by the gang at Grovemade, it’s made of Merino wool felt for softness and warmth, natural hardwood for “character and feel,” and an aluminum chassis that holds everything in place.
Integrated cord slots make it easy to manage your cords. The full coverage natural cork foot helps keep the Studio Pad from scratching your desktop. An aluminum lip, cushioned by the aforementioned Marino wool, holds your iPad, iPhone, notecards, etc, at a nice (though non-adjustable) angle.
The Studio Pad provides plenty of organizational space while fitting naturally at your desk in front of your monitor. In fact, it may be too big for some folks. At 38 inches wide and 14.1 inches deep, it may overwhelm some desktops. If you’re thinking you might spring for the Grovemade product, measure your desk space to make sure it’s right for you.
So why is the Studio Pad so pricey? The folks at Grovemade say that’s due to the Merino wool felt that comes from Germany and “is pure and natural, which means it’s a much more expensive material than most synthetic wool felts you’ll interact with.”
Most of us don’t need a $200-plus desk pad. If you do, or simply want one that’s ultra-elegant and classy, the Studio Pad may be calling your name.
Apple World Today rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★★
