My husband and I agree that this was a great purchase.  It is a soft fabric.  The grey color is not too dark and not too light.  I feel like Goldilocks because the pouf ottoman is lightweight yet sturdy, cushioning is soft enough to rest your feet on, yet firm enough to sit on.  I also like how it is flat on top versus rounded, so it is good for sitting on as well as setting a tray on if you want to use it as a table.  Love it so much that we are buying a second one!