We're planning the staircase for our new build and are attracted to ones in American White Oak. We have been warned, however, that the treads may prove to be somewhat slippery when walked down in bare feet or socks/stockings. Having the treads covered in something seems to defeat their aesthetic beauty and is a route down which we'd rather not travel. On the other hand, safety, particularly of our grandchildren, is paramount.

Anyone have any experience of slippery oak staircases? Is this likely to be a problem or not? If so, any suggestions?

Thanks in anticipation.

Roger

Faced with a similar problem 18 years ago with some oak treads I routed the edge, first with a 1/4 round and then V groves behind that. This has been quite successful, its in a guest / student / rented / volunteer accommodation (all at different times) and no one to my knowledge has slipped and certainly no one has complained about slipping. I have used them and never found them slippery. Over the years the groves have not worn that much, but I did not take the V groves to a point with the adjacent grove but left a flat top. Picture if it works

Our oak stairs are matt oiled and are not in the slightest bit slippy in bare feet, with my "shiniest" socks on they are slightly slippy, perhaps not safe if you were running full tilt but perfectly safe at walking pace.

Non-slip socks?

How about these if you're really worried.
http://www.floormats.co.uk/aluminium-stairtreads-montreal

We have lived with bare varnished hardwood stairs this near 20 years.
The dogs soon got used to them, though the 40 to 50 kg bastard Mastiff breeds at first virtually slid right out the front door, as the hall floor was also varnished/polished wood.
Bessie, bless her soul, seemed to figger it worked better to rush DOWN the stairs.
Every time.