Honestly, if you are comparing these street benches—typically slatted wood, metal, or composite with a slight curve—to standard concrete benches, the comfort gap is noticeable after just a few minutes. The biggest differences come down to pressure, temperature, and forgiveness.
Concrete is unyielding. It does not flex, has no give, and unless it is carefully shaped, it creates pressure points under your thighs and tailbone. Street benches with separated slats spread your weight more evenly, especially when the slats are contoured. The small gaps also let air and rainwater pass through, so you are less likely to sit in a puddle or feel that sticky, clammy surface you sometimes get on painted concrete.
Temperature is another big factor. Concrete holds cold for a long time in the morning and can become brutally hot under direct sun. Wood and most composite slats stay closer to air temperature and feel less extreme against bare legs. Metal street benches can also get hot or cold, but many have a coated finish or use mixed materials, which helps.
Back support matters more than people realize. Many modern street benches have a gentle recline or a curved backrest, while concrete benches are often backless or have a hard, straight slab behind you. That subtle lumbar curve on a slatted bench lets you sit longer without shifting around. If a concrete bench has no backrest, your lower back does all the work, and comfort drops fast.
There are exceptions. A well-designed, contoured concrete bench with a smooth finish and a wooden seat insert can be reasonably comfortable. But on average, street benches built with separated slats, a slight pitch to the seat, and some type of back support will feel noticeably better than a solid concrete bench. Concrete might still win for durability or a certain look, but for pure sitting comfort, it usually comes in second.