Pile height is the measured height of the yarn above the rug's backing or foundation — essentially how "deep" the rug feels underfoot. Hand-knotted rugs are typically low-to-medium pile, since the knot structure itself limits practical height. Hand-tufted rugs have the most flexibility, since pile can be sheared to a uniform height or carved to create multiple levels within one design.
Why it matters to a buyer
Higher pile feels plusher but traps more dirt, takes longer to vacuum clean, and can interfere with door clearance or furniture stability. Lower pile is easier to maintain and better suited to high-traffic or commercial settings. Carved, multi-level pile — where some areas are sheared shorter than others — is a common way to add visual texture to a hand-tufted design without a flat, uniform surface.