Love the rug (and so does the cat) but the smell was super strong when we unpacked it. It smells like soil. It is dissipating and is not nearly as noticeable as the first couple days. We’ve had it for about 5 days now and I hope it abates completely. Other than that- great texture and colour. I have no problems walking without shoes- I don’t find it uncomfortable. The cat likes to scratch it and she’s distracted from the furniture - it seems indestructible)