These are (I think) the same sort of thin reeds or grasses which we later saw being made into bedmats. They are tough, and get used in all manner of ways, but principally, initially are thin mats which people sit on, and sleep on. The soft things we use, bemuse some of the people we know. They give them an aching back; are too soft. The reverse is true for us. I would ache from head to toe if I had to regularly sleep on one of their 'matresses'.. Mind you, they are portable, and colourful, so I'm envious on that score.