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: the surface of the pileus has raised ridges which interconnect to form a reticulate (netted) pattern. The network of ridges is often more obvious at the centre of the pileus, and may become more visible during drying.