This rug is much softer than I expected. We purchased the Charcoal (dark gray) and it matched the color shown on the screen. We have medium colored hardwood floors with a touch of cherry and the charcoal looks really nice with it. We ordered the runner 2' x 12'. The frayed ends looked fine when we unrolled it. They are about 6" long on our rug, but because I read other reviews I was expecting that. The frays do not look messy or untamed. I think the rug gives our hallway a very warm appearance now and it feels great underfoot. I recommend this rug!