Soft. But decent thickness leather. My armguard that I got off 3rivers is soft, but is double layered on the sweet spot. Also I would think 1 or 2 straps would be nice instead of having to strap 3 every time. I've always had stiff back quivers. I recently bought one off Mudd that is really flexible so the arrows don't move around. I've seen some that have the extra strap for a 3 point attachment. Seem like that would be nice so it doesn't slide around on ya. Maybe others don't have this problem but my 25.5" draw arms don't reach but so far behind my head. This back quiver I have now doesn't move near as much as long as I tighten it down or up to whatever I'm wearing. I hope this helps. Not sure if this is what you were asking or not. Good luck.