Hey, I totally get your worry—nobody wants to sit down and end up with a splinter. The good news is that most public park benches are maintained regularly, and yes, they are usually sanded down really smooth.
Park maintenance crews typically use coarse-grit sandpaper (like 60-80 grit) to knock down any rough spots or weather-worn edges, then follow up with finer grits (120-220) to get that silky finish. They also apply a protective sealant or wood oil to prevent splinters from forming again.
That said, not all benches get the same love. Older or less-maintained parks might have benches that haven’t been sanded in a while. If you see cracks, fuzzy wood fibers, or peeling finish, that’s a red flag. But a quick touch test—running your hand lightly over the surface—can tell you a lot. If it feels smooth and sealed, you’re good to sit.
A little pro tip: if you’re extra cautious, carry a small piece of fine-grit sandpaper in your bag. A quick rub on a suspicious spot before sitting gives you total peace of mind. But honestly, most benches in well-cared-for parks are smooth enough for a comfortable afternoon.