Rolling Work Seats in the garden

TOOLS AND TECH

2/14/20252 min read

Ergonomics in the Garden

Before I've reviewed what I used in the garden while pregnant, the folding garden bench, that my father-in-law uses when they are in town to be able to get on and off the ground. Because this is a good tool for both of us I don't feel justified to spend the $50 on a rolling seat, such as this one, which is from Harbor Freight (and also where the image comes from), but thought I'd bring it up as an alternative, as someone else in a different scenario may find it useful (or have found it useful and can let me know).

Pros and Cons

When it comes to a rolling work seat, the wheels are one of the most important features. I'm curious about how well these wheels perform on different surfaces and slopes. Do they glide easily on grass, gravel, or concrete? Are they stable enough to use on a slight incline? It would be great to hear from those who've used this particular model from Harbor Freight, or a similar product as any insight from actual users would be welcome!

There's a tool slot, but I wonder if it's a good size for garden tools and if it's accessible, being under the seat. But my biggest concern is portability. It says the package is 30lbs, so I assume it weights nearly that much, and is large enough to sit on, so I assume it might be awkward to carry. I wouldn't want to push it far, since there's no handle. So then it's probably going to be left in the garden, so I'm curious how well it weathers over time.

I did look at the reviews and they were mostly positive. Some were positive even before using it but most seemed to find it sturdy and easy to assemble and liked the swivel seat. Many used it on flat surfaces (such as a shop or deck) but there was a reviewer that had used it for months in the garden and liked it (though they did add padding to the seat).

The seat says it holds up to 300 lbs, but I doubt with the curve of the seat would make this comfortable, unless you happen to be tall.

Who would use this?

Having never used this, I can't say for certain, but I'd consider this tool if you need to do prolonged tasks in the garden that are low to the ground (in grown or on-the-ground raised beds) and have enough space to fit this chair and move it along the ground between planting areas. If your body is heavier set, or if you are lighter and have difficulty sitting on hard surfaces for long, I would consider trying a foam or air cushion with it. If having difficulty with standing up from lower seats, you may prefer the foldable garden bench to give arm rests. If lifting bulkier items is difficult, I'd see if you can find one to try moving in person and/or know you'll leave it in the garden if there's no overhang close by.