Material could be felt (8)
I believe the answer is:
tangible
I believe this clue is a double definition.
'material' is the first definition.
(similar in meaning)
'be felt' is the second definition.
(perceived by touch)
'could' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for tangible that I've seen before include "Real, definite" , "Solid, can be touched" , "Able to be felt" , "Capable of being touched" , "Palpable" .)