This feature deals with characteristics of the surface of the pileus itself, rather than any coverings such as hairs or scales, for which see Pileus surface (hairs or scales). Some of the features, such as cracking, are more pronounced on older fruit-bodies, but do not record this feature from over-mature specimens (where the pileus has started to shrivel or decay).

Choose this state if: there are no obvious cracks, pits or wrinkles on the pileus surface. The pileus may be quite smooth (glabrous), or there may be hairs or scales [see Pileus surface (hairs or scales)].