If you love the feeling of walking barefoot on grass, but you’re tired of muddy footprints, patchy growth, or constant mowing, artificial grass could be your perfect solution. However, not all artificial lawns are created equal. If you’re searching for the softest artificial grass for barefoot use, it’s essential to understand what factors influence that soft, luxurious feel—and how to strike the right balance between comfort, durability, and aesthetics.
Whether you’re planning a family-friendly lawn, a cosy rooftop terrace, or a stylish garden retreat, comfort underfoot is a priority. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes artificial grass feel soft, what to look for when comparing options, and which NeoGrass products are designed to offer the best barefoot experience.
What Really Makes Artificial Grass Feel Soft?
Softness goes beyond just touch. It comes down to the materials and construction of the turf. At NeoGrass, we look at five key factors:
Fibre Material
The biggest influence on softness is the plastic used in the fibres. Polyethylene is the softest and most skin-friendly option, offering a silky, natural feel underfoot. Polypropylene is firmer, while nylon—though incredibly strong—is the least soft. If comfort is your goal, steer clear of nylon-based products.
Pile Height and Density
Longer piles (typically 30mm to 40mm) create a deeper, more cushioned feel. However, if the pile is too long, it may start to look unrealistic or floppy. Density also matters—a higher stitch count (above 18,000 stitches per m²) makes the surface feel plush and helps fibres spring back into place.
Fibre Thickness and Decitex
Fibre thickness, measured in microns, impacts softness and durability. Thinner fibres are generally softer but wear down faster. Decitex measures the mass of the yarn—lower decitex creates a silkier feel, while higher decitex boosts strength.
Finding the right balance of softness and durability means looking for a polyethylene turf with mid-range thickness and a moderate decitex rating.

Striking the Balance: Softness vs. Durability
It’s important to understand that the softest artificial grass won’t always be the most hard-wearing.
Take our Aberdeen and Inverness ranges. They’re built with ultra-resilient nylon fibres and incorporate Instant Recovery® technology, making them perfect for school playgrounds, commercial areas, or homes with active pets. But with durability comes a trade-off in softness.
For spaces where barefoot comfort takes priority, polyethylene is the way to go. As with any product choice, it’s all about balance—deciding what matters most for your lifestyle and space.

Our Softest Artificial Grass Products
We’ve carefully engineered a range of products to deliver exceptional underfoot softness without sacrificing appearance:
- 40mm pile height
- Dense, soft polyethylene fibres
- Beautiful, natural tone blend
- Ideal for garden lawns and balconies)
- 35mm pile height
- Velvety finish with Natural Look® technology
- Great for family gardens and relaxation spaces
- 30mm pile height
- Silky feel in a lower profile
- Perfect for swimming pool surrounds and event space
Where Softness Counts Most
Soft artificial grass isn’t just for aesthetics—it’s also about function. If you’ll be walking barefoot, relaxing with family, or creating a sensory-rich space for children, the feel underfoot matters.
Popular applications for ultra-soft turf include:
- Home garden lawns
- Balconies, terraces, and roof gardens
- Swimming pool surrounds
- Events and exhibitions
If you’re a dog owner or require more robust performance, a nylon-based product paired with DeoFill™ infill may be better suited. Learn more in our pet-friendly turf guide.

Key Takeaways: Choosing Artificial Grass for Barefoot Use
To recap:
- Polyethylene fibres are the softest and most comfortable underfoot
- Aim for 30mm–40mm pile height for plushness without compromising realism
- High pile density makes for a thicker, more luxurious feel
- Avoid nylon if your main priority is comfort, not resilience
Finding the perfect balance will ensure your artificial lawn not only looks stunning but also feels great every time you step outside.
Feel the Difference for Yourself
Still deciding? The best way to choose is to feel it. You can request samples of our artificial grass here. Comparing textures in person is the most effective way to find the product that suits your space and needs.











