This rug is fantastic and as nice, or nicer than in the pictures.  I used a rug pad underneath, but the rug is very thick and overall soft on the feet.  It is not as soft as some rugs, but certainly does not scratch and I do not find uncomfortable to lie down on.  It does fray on occasion, which can easily be fixed with a pair of scissors.  Maintenance is easy, I run a vacuum over every week or so and it has maintained its cleanliness very well.