Feels pretty soft but is definitely a 2 person job to get this on the mattress.  I love this one since it can cover the entire mattress area.  Had a houseguest who's kid peed as they were getting out of the bed and it had gotten on the sides and most protectors do not have very good sides at all.  I just recommend if you have an adjustable bed - get a larger size so it will not stretch and rip.