I was a little bit skeptical at first because it kind of had a sponge feel. It wasn't as soft feeling as the other gel pillows at first glance. After sleeping on it for a few weeks now, I've grown attached to the way the pillow feels and even smells. It has a very unique smell to it that I found interesting at first, but it has a soothing effect on me now.
It is also much softer once you lay your head on the pillow. I like the square spots because it really helps form the pillow around your head. I did notice initially that the pillow is so soft that it didn't support my heavy head as much as some of the other pillows I've used. After getting used to the amount of support this pillow gives, I became accustomed to it and other pillows feel too firm to me now. I would highly recommend this pillow even if you think you want a lower height pillow.