Except the pads the mount is solid. The tension adjusters attached to the sides are easy to use and work quite well. They are much better than the XT8, but not better than the Z8, but at this point it becomes a matter of preferance. They have the same functionalities.
The tensioners are not movable across the optical tube, and that is a feature of Z8 that I love. It provides the ability to create balance when using a heavy accessory, and SkyWatcher 8″ Dob lacks this feature. You may create balance with weights attached to the optical tube, but this is more cumbersome.
The base of the mount is cheap particle board as it is with most Dobsonians. It is not an important feauture of the telescope, but if the coverings get peeled off they may get damaged from moisture.
The weight is the most important factor about the mount. The mount is 25 lbs and the optical tube is 20 lbs. The telescope is “carryable”, but it will always require some effort. You can take the telescope to National Parks and mountains sides in the trunk or in the back seat of your car, so don’t worry about that.
Overall I expected the mount to be better. The Nylon pads, the rather simple fricton adjusters are small drawbacks, but premium prices should include premium features.