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 pits or depressed spots on the pileus surface. The spots or pits are usually several millimetres across, and often a little darker or paler than the rest of the pileus, or more or less watery than the rest of the pileus. Spots like this are especially found in Lepista and Leucopaxillus. Do not choose this state if the spots are merely blotches or patches of different colour, or are differently coloured scales.