I bought this rocker to compliment the matching settee set.  I live in the Southwest and wanted something that could withstand the harsh weather in Arizona.  I'm 5'5 and find the rocker comfortable without a cushion however the cushion I tried on it was 2 or 3 inches thick and raised my legs a little too high off the ground so that may have been the reason.  I just purchased the cushions made for this particular furniture from blazing needles and they are not so thick.  Those cushions also have a small overflap on the front that I think will be good if the furniture gets too hot in the summer.  Overall love my rocker, its perfect for relaxing under my patio.  I did coat the iron with Rustoleum clear as recommended by other reviewers.