I have a large family to fit at a standard sized table.  Trying to fit chairs for everyone was nearly impossible and proved to lead to disgruntlement.  I looked around quite a bit before finding these benches and these were the only ones that looked sturdy enough for what I needed.  I was right to go with them.  I have two (on either side of the table) and they have been a blessing.  They are great quality as I have four teenagers in and out of the kitchen and these benches have withstood that tremendous wear and tear.