It is soft with a hard base. This is what I wanted. But the upper instep is too small and it can’t be adjusted. My shoe size is 6. But I purchased a size 7 due to an injury. I had to struggle to get my leg inside. If a size 6 can’t be comfortable on a size 7 - I wonder how the real size number 6 will fit in it! Still I’ve given 5 stars for the price ONLY!