I also have the Fender and Gretsch barstools in my studio.
The seat padding here is thinner than the Fender and Gretsch barstools, subsequently when you sit on it, you feel the wood underneath! And I'm not a heavy guy...
You could always put a cushion on top, but it's not really the point.
Also, although assembly was quite straightforward, the instructions weren't as clear as the Fender and Gretsch and the nut/bolt design wasn't as good, however this wasn't so important. It's rock solid once assembled.