The influence of yarn geometry on surface topography, friction, and smoothness of fabrics is reported. A systematic increase in fabric construction (threads per cm) increases frictional resistance but the fabric surface becomes smoother. This is attributed to the diminishing crown height as yarn sett increases. Similarly, an increase in yarn linear density (diameter) also increases the frictional resistance and surface roughness. The increase in surface roughness is ascribed to an increase in mechanical interlocking of yarn crowns.