Slippery? Not really. They are textured with a diamond pattern. They are relatively high-maintenance and cannot stand up to excessive pressure. if you see them bulge at all you must decrease the pressure or they spring leaks. However, since each panel is only 2'x4' they are easy to change out.

I've changed my system to separate the panels into two separate systems. This allows both to get about the same pressure as the single system but increases the overall flow, making them I guess about 40% more efficient.

BUT, they work, they don't look like add-ons (my wife didn't want it to be "ugly") and they keep the deck cool so you don't burn your feet on it. This will be our 8th season with it.