Web offset printing paper having a high level of gloss and smoothness is prepared by finishing a paper web, either by supercalender or with a synthetic roll calender at a moisture content greater than the moisture content typically used for web offset finishing, and then drying the web to a moisture content of less than about 3.5% using convection, radiation or conduction. Under the preferred post-drying conditions, bonding of the previously wet paper fibers takes place to lock in the desirable printing characteristics and to prevent heat roughening on the offset press.