Non-durable self-supporting flexible containers having gradients where at least one of a plurality of physical characteristics that are perceptible via tactile interaction with an exterior surface of the container are varied across the exterior of the container. The flexible containers may permit users to perceive viscosity or relative thermal condition of contained product in discrete zones or regions of the container through one or more outer surface of the container without direct interaction with the product, or vary hardness or softness of the container.