A disc drive slider (118) includes a slider body (143) and a rail (148) formed on the slider body. The rail includes a bearing surface (146) which faces a surface (120) of a disc (102). A textured portion (163) is formed on the bearing surface of the rail. Pads (162) are deposited on the textured portions. The pads operate to reduce stiction, dynamic friction, and the likelihood of damage to the slider or the surface of the disc due to contact therebetween.
