How does one finish stairs so that they aren’t dangerously slippery?

Q: Home Depot sells oak replacement stair kits (treads with a nose and risers). I’m working with stairs to the basement. How does one finish it so that it isn’t dangerously slippery? I think varnish or urethane might make the stairs too slippery. How do I get non slippery hardwood stairs?

A: You will probably find that a gloss or hi-gloss is a much more “sticky” finish compared to a satin, matte or semi. There are also some water borne finishes designed for sports floors that offer slip resistance in the chemical make-up.