Abstract: Superhydrophobic surfaces according to the invention contain micro or nanoscale hydrophobic features which can support a shear-free air-water interface between peaks in the surface topology. The surface of an engineered structure is patterned with a plurality of parallel ridges extending from the surface. The ridges have a width d and a height h, and are spaced apart by a first spacing dimension w. The ridges extend along the surface of the solid object for a predefined length l. Breaker ridges are situated between the parallel ridges, and are oriented at an angle to the parallel ridges. The breaker ridges are preferably spaced apart by a second spacing dimension. The breaker ridges and the parallel ridges are configured to define a volume wherein a gas may be situated. The engineered structure is configured to provide a reduced drag force between itself and a fluid.