The bench is very nice. . . sturdy when assembled properly. The wooden slats may feel flimsy because they are rather flexible, but my bench actually supported two individuals weighing approximately 355 lbs. combined. The only disappointing feature was the "faux wrought iron" plastic back. I assumed it would be wrought iron, too . . . like the legs. Perhaps that was done to prevent back burns if set out in direct sunlight. Whatever . . . I still like mine.