I don't find texture as "grippy" when really wet; and it does not keep your hands warm whatsoever compared to checkering.
OK, I'll bite - how does checkering keep your hands warm(er)?
I assume that what is happening is that the small air gaps in the checkering allow the air to be trapped by your hands and warm up. OR, maybe it's that there is actually less surface-area contact with the stock overall.
But try a smooth or textured stock next to a checkered one when it's really cold outside, and the difference is almost immediately felt.
