I initially got these sticks primarily for their colour, not knowing about the active grip technology back then. What I eventually got was a wonderful pair of drumsticks.
Pros:
1. The ActiveGrip: with prolonged playing and sweaty hands, I found that the sticks did not slip out of hands. The ActiveGrip technology actually works.
2. Thickness: I have bigger-than-usual hands, hence I usually go for thick 5B sticks. These sticks are not the thickest 5Bs out there, but, combined with ActiveGrip, I found the handling & playing quite smooth and the thickness very comfortable.
3. Tip: the acorn shape gives a good sound on the drums with a nice-sounding punch and attack.
4. Colour: maybe it does not matter to you, but the black-with-golden-yellow colour looks eye-catching.
5. Price: despite the technical upheaval, the sticks are not absurdly priced.
Cons:
1. Thin shoulder: to get the rebound, the shoulders/sleeves are deliberately kept thin, which makes playing hi-hats with the sleeve a little difficult.
2. Wear-off: after continuous usage, the stick starts wearing off, taking away with it the black coat. The stick then does not as glamorous as it was initially.
Conclusion:
I now have a pair of these every time in my stick bag. Would recommend to try out at least once!