We needed chairs to replace some structurally unstable hand-me-down chairs, and these are PERFECT. We're deep in the toddler stage, and so far these have held up well to little messy hands. :)  They are also very stable, which is good for my broad husband and his larger-than-average family. ;)  I can't speak to the simplicity of assembling them...my husband did it; but he didn't complain, which is a good sign! I know he took some extra time to ensure they didn't wobble. So far so good!