Honestly, mesh pads are overrated for some of us. Yeah, they’re quieter and less fatiguing on the wrists, but the “feel” is super subjective. Some players I know actually prefer the predictable, springy bounce of rubber pads-especially if they grew up on those older Roland or Yamaha e-kits. And let's not forget: cheap mesh pads can feel weirdly trampoline-esque, which is no closer to an acoustic drum than a garden chair.
Realistically, if you’re practicing technique and timing, either pad will do the job. It’s only when you want to geek out on dynamics and subtlety that mesh starts pulling ahead. So yeah, you’re not crazy-you’re just noticing the trend (and the marketing push). Mesh isn’t magic, it’s just the latest thing we’re supposed to “need.”