Static from synthetic mousepads is rarely a problem for mice.

It’s not something most people need to worry about.

Modern electrostatic-sensitive mice—meaning optical and laser mice, not ancient ball mice—have robust internal shielding. The static you feel from a synthetic pad like a hard Cordura or a cloth-nylon hybrid is surface-level. It won’t interfere with the sensor’s tracking or the internal electronics unless you’re generating a visible spark directly into the USB port or the sensor lens.

The real risk is if you’re using a really cheap, ungrounded mouse in a low-humidity room with lots of carpet and synthetic socks. Even then, the static discharge usually just causes a momentary cursor jump or a blip in tracking—annoying, not damaging. For serious concerns, get a pad with an anti-static coating or a natural material like wool. But for 99% of setups, this isn’t a battle worth fighting.