In our last house, we had French White Oak flooring installed. I do not recall what kind of wood the treads were made from, but after numerous off-site testing, our flooring company used this product with a custom tint so that they matched.

Just so you know, we had on-site white oak flooring (like yours) installed during an addition at a previous house. Even though a "non-yellowing" poly was used, the varnish still changed colors with the sun.

I am not trying to match white oak. I know it won't happen. I am just trying to pick a darker stain for the stairs but not too dark and not red in color. I am worried dark walnut is too dark...

Samples are red oak pieces

Misunderstood you were not trying to match.

I would go with the darker.

Compare your samples to white oak with the varnish you plan to use - it will change the look a bit and you will see more color and depth. If you're holding a gun to my head and asking me to choose, I would also choose the darker, but I wouldn't be happy about it. Two different woods are always going to look odd next to each other. I would do the bannister and handrail the same as the treads.

This photo has a painted bannister, but it may just be paint-grade wood. The handrail at least relates to the treads. A runner will also help make the difference seem more intentional.

In this example, they painted the treads and the risers white and added a runner. This way it is completely different and doesn't jump out as a clashing element. Your treads are really good shape, so I'm sure you would balk at painting them. I wouldn't suggest real sisal on stairs - it can be very slippery - but the color of the sisal pulls in the white oak floorboards.

Just apply the same system to the red oak and use a runner.

Nicole, what did you ultimately choose? I’m in the same predicament. Thanks!!

I’m sorry I never saw this!! We went with early American stain. It matched close enough! I hope you found something you love!