Hey, great question. I’ve actually sat on quite a few public benches, so let me break it down for you.
Most standard street benches have a seating depth of about 16 to 18 inches (roughly 40 to 45 cm). This is kind of the sweet spot that manufacturers aim for. For an average adult, this depth allows your thighs to be fully supported without the edge of the bench cutting into the back of your knees. You can generally sit back comfortably with your feet flat on the ground.
But what about kids? Well, for a small child, that same 16-inch depth can feel generous. Since a kid’s legs are shorter, they might not reach the ground easily if they sit all the way back. They often end up scooting forward or dangling their legs. That said, it’s usually still comfortable for them because the flat surface gives them room to shift positions or sit cross-legged.
Now, comfort also depends on the angle of the backrest and the seat itself. A slightly tilted back (around 5-10 degrees) and a slight upward slope at the front of the seat can make a huge difference. Some newer benches also use contoured wooden slats, which add a bit of give and ergonomic curve for both kids and adults.
So, is it comfortable for both? Yes, for most everyday use. The 16-18 inch depth is a universal compromise that works well for casual sitting, waiting, or people-watching. If you’re very tall (over 6 feet), you might find it a bit shallow for long lounging, and if you’re very short, you might want a footrest. But for the vast majority, a standard street bench is genuinely quite comfy.
In short: the depth is designed to accommodate a wide range of users, and it does a solid job for both kids and adults.