Firm but comfortable (not in the lounge sense ).   Bought 2.  Was ready to throw the parts out the window.  Arms were 
mislabeled.   Instructions are over complicated.  1) pull back seat underside and attach to seat back 2) assemble front wooden bar - testing that screws actually screw easily prior to putting a piece of wood on in the mix.  3) start the screws on the back and and rear oft he the seat one side at a time Starting them “square” will ensure you don’t cross thread when trying to align the holes 4) move the seat and back not the wooden arm to allow the screws to be advanced smoothly. 5) repeat for the other side 6) if you have maintained “square,” the last 2 locking screws go in with no trouble. Note these are advanced in a counterclockwise direction.    enjoy.