Yes—texture makes a noticeable difference when the surface gets wet. On a smooth bench, water can form a thin film between the seat and whoever is sitting on it, and that is what creates that slick, unsure feeling. A textured surface breaks up that film. The raised pattern gives shoes, clothing, or skin more edges to grip, so you keep better contact even in rain, morning dew, or pool splashes.
Texture also helps with drainage. Small grooves or embossed patterns let water move off the seating area instead of pooling on top. That means the bench dries faster and is less likely to develop algae or mildew, which can become slippery on their own. So the benefit is not just mechanical grip—it is also about keeping the surface cleaner and drier between weather events.
That said, the type of texture matters. A shallow wood grain may look nice but can still feel slick if it is sealed with a glossy finish. For outdoor benches, deeper wood grain, brushed metal, or a fine anti-slip texture tends to perform better. You want enough texture to add slip resistance without making the seat uncomfortable or hard to clean. If you are placing outdoor benches near water or in shaded damp areas, a well-textured surface is a practical safety feature when wet weather hits.