Honestly, yes—metal benches can feel pretty extreme in both hot and cold weather. In the summer, direct sunlight can heat a metal bench up to 140°F (60°C) or more, making it too hot to sit on comfortably for more than a few seconds. I’ve tested this myself on a sunny afternoon, and the surface practically burns through thin clothing.
In winter, the same bench becomes a heat thief. Metal conducts temperature rapidly, so on a freezing day, the seat can feel icy cold even through jeans. Some people compare it to sitting on a block of ice.
But it’s not all bad. Many outdoor metal benches are now designed with perforated or slatted surfaces to reduce direct contact area. Some also use powder-coated finishes that absorb less heat. In moderate weather—spring and autumn—metal benches are perfectly fine and easy to clean.
If comfort matters a lot, you can always bring a cushion or choose benches with wooden or plastic inserts. So, while metal benches do get uncomfortable in extremes, small adjustments can make them usable year-round.