i don't use one. lens choice and lighting in my opinion is most crucial. (in my experience) i find it easier to pan with a fixed lens verses my say 17- 35. and any thing less than 1/10 is pretty tough. also as you probably know it becomes difficult if your having to guess the speed of the subject. for example, this shot took two tries because the first attempt i was panning too fast. modified my settings and followed him until he hit the spot i had pre locked my focus on. which also is really helpful i think. I would like to see what you come up with and let me know what you find works best for you. i feel like sometimes i get lucky and sometimes i just don't.

 Do you use a monopod for your pans? I'm still trying to get a good sharp pan shot.

 Great pan shot!