I used both spinning and bait casters today and I really like the stuff.
It feels a bit tacky Jack plus the X configuration is slightly raised, especially on the red/black. Curt I haven't had them we yet but they can be any slicker than wet cork, plus the are going to be a lot easier to dry off and to clean.
I have taken a couple of reels off in the past. I have just heated it and rolled it up. Then when the reel is back on I just rolled it back heated it again and it shrunk back to shape.