I have used an older gel set. Other than them always needing adjustment (falling down, turning, etc.), I loved them. Much easier on the knees than kneeling in the dirt, and they keep your pants from looking like you are sans abode.
I was just looking online, may swing into Lowes in the next few days. Yeah, the shorts thing is a concern, but I thought I might get one of those knee supports (the large elastic-type sleeve that slips over the knee) since I thought it would keep the strap from irritating my delicate skin Seriously, I'd think it would help in adding a little comfort.
Ditto on the long britches, maybe the better ones aren't as bad? I figured I'd "buy once/cry once", and since I only use one at a time, a pair of good ones should last me the rest of my life. I'd have to think Gel would be more comfortable, but I've never owned a set, plus I'd like to get a set with a flat face, as it seems the rounded ones are a but unstable for me.
Gel Knee Pads are to stiff / Rigid for detecting, there great for being on The ground for long periods of Time Like a Tile Layer, as For the detectorest where always up down, up down, also the good Gel pads are very expensive .
Those elastic knee supports work real nice Gauntlet.