It may be me, but the mat i threw away (and then grabbed from the garbage and cleaned up and put back) was gel or something very cushy. it was half the size of this one, but also half the price. either way, this is not cushy underfoot, just more soft than the mexican tile on the floor of my kitchen. it's a pity, because this is nice, a big size, and has great color options. i just wish it were more gel-like, or cushier, had more "spring" to it. pros: great size options, great colorscons: not particularly cushy