I've had an opportunity to try both out:

The Gripper is the winner. For those with big hands (like myself) it's more meaty, easier to shift with, and alot more comfortable. And for those wondering the Gripper is not mushy like a breast, it's hard like plastic, and doesn't give any when you press it hard. However, the shape is great, and it has plenty of leverage to use in conjuction with a short throw shifter, and really enhances my MGW, especially for reverse, 1st gear, and 5th gear. No slip at all and I did push my car hard today and it held up well. A very solid piece that's easier to shift with than the composite for both normal and spirited driving.

The only thing the Composite has on the Gripper is that it looks better., but as far as feel and function the Gripper wins IMO. The gripper is the same size all around and is almost a perfect ball (top is flat) so adjusting the **** is easy and simple. On top of that the Gripper is cheaper than the Composite.

 

I've had the gripper for about 3 years. I love it except the billet mustang emblem gets dirty and its a huge pain in the *** to clean it well.

 

Yeah I can definately see how dust and stuff can get stuck on the emblem and around the perimeter. If the **** was completely around on the top and didn't have the emlem it would be perfect.

 

the gripper looks better as well =P