I do love these sticks. They are impeccably balanced and play nicely on mesh pads without "yellowing" them like wooden tipped sticks can. However, even though I don't sweat when playing, my hands end up black after a few hours bashing the drums, and the black doesn't come off with soap and water, I have to use a scouring sponge to get it off.
Interestingly enough though, I had a pair of Ahead 5A sticks around 15 years ago and they didn't blacken my hands, so perhaps they've changed their formula?
But, this is a minor quibble and certainly one I can live with, but thought I'd mention it all the same. Well worth the money for sticks that will last "forever".