This paper gives an overview about some mechanical properties of materials processed by surface severe plastic deformation (SSPD) techniques. SSPD processed materials are classified in terms of characteristics, and main generated parameters that determine the output properties of materials are presented. The influences of SSPD on mechanical properties of materials are then reviewed. Furthermore, the roles played by some parameters such as gradient microstructure, nanostructured layer, compressive residual stress (CRS) and surface integrity are highlighted by discussing their contributions. Finally, some conclusions are drawn and possible prospects for future research are underlined.