Hi.
I use the Lightest Esaki Lite-Flite in my free flight wings, as decoration over Salzer tissue or Icarex, and directly on carbon D-box.
Regarding the question which side up, shiny or matt, in this use there is no weight difference as it'll anyway be impregnated with dope. Maybe it's more important with indoor models. BUT I have found that when applied matt side outside, it sticks much better to carbon or Icarex. I brush 2 thin coats of dope to surface, let it dry and then glue the wet paper on with acetone. If you put shiny side up, the edges of paper will start lifting. Shiny side has more contact area.
But a well sealed balsa surface has more dope to stick onto, it makes less difference.
I like Lite-Flite because it's quite strong also when wet. With enough water it is easy to align accurately without wrinkles.
Happy Christmas,
Lauri