Bottom-Line: The design is evolutionary, ergonomic and modern, rather than purely traditional or classic. Your writer’s first impression surrounding the features of this USA made stool (of imported materials) is that it was meant to rock, so “do not” expect a perfectly flat bottom, which also doubles as storage, plus this does not slide, as there is a rubber like bottom to add stick to hard/carpeted flooring, likely so that this does not slip out from under the child. I could not slide this across the floor, like a traditional stool. Also, we liked the availability of colors, there is an exciting choice option. We chose blue, it’s a little darker than some of the rest; its coloring is solid, even, conservative, but still a cheery color. Active seating The child can transfer their excess energy into wobbling, rocking, tilting, and to some extent swiveling on this. There is freedom to move about and any administrator and fellow students would understand that this is perfectly natural with this type of “active” seating, and these active actions may have physiological benefits allowing increased blood to flow from head to toe, aiding the student. Active seating may help children who are naturally restless or have other sensory sensitivities. Active chairing may assist in learning. The (latex-free) rubberized base has a perimeter safety ring that acts as a natural stop to intended rocking. Again, this chair is firm. It also has rounded edges and can accommodate an adult. The manufacturer made no reference to maximum weight. I weighed the seat in at six (6) pounds and six (6) ounces. Stool measures 13.3" D x 15" H; interior storage measures about 10” in diameter and has sides that are about 2¼” tall but has about 6” more of open space under the seating area. All plastic design comes fully assembled and is maintenance-free Plastic used A 4 inside of a triangle is what is displayed, along with the letters LLDPE, this is a very hard plastic material think milk-jugs, times (20). This type of plastic is typically found in plastic road barriers. It’s referred to as a Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE). LLDPE is understood to be a blended form of LDPE. It typically offers some flexibility and extra strength. We understand that there is little opportunity to recycle this type of plastic, however, but there may be growing recycling presence in the future. In no way would I say any part of this seating is soft, rather, it’s hard, firm/supportive. This is meant to sit on and rock or wobble, and in no way should this be stood on, which is a natural attraction. We think the length of time a child could comfortably sit is limited, at most, to the school day, with breaks, or more short-term type of seating, whether in a home, school, or library type of environment. There is no odor to this plastic. The texture is smooth over the seating area and upper sides, rather than a sandpaper type texture. How to clean was not referenced, however, since we use indoors, we use a warm damp rag that has a tad of detergent. Certifications Per the manufacturer, Greenguard [Gold] certified for low VOCs and Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) compliant, which gives us some reassurances. Storage As mentioned, the stool features a built-in storage space to keep whatever the imagination and size will allow to store, such as small supplies, reading books, and water bottles, all within reach. Value This is premium priced. But when you factor in the totality, such as how sturdy and durable this is, I can understand the cost, especially considering this is made in the US and is sold for commercial settings and use. The quality is awesome. We would select again. We hope our thoughts assisted in your decision.
