I messed up... and did not find these previous reviews of this seat before I purchased the LL Bean branded version of the Sitbacker. The seat was heavy. The round tubing of the framework is stamped flat for the pivot hinge--very weak and flexy. I returned it immediately to LL Bean.
I then wound up buying a Crazy Creek Canoe Chair III which is very supportive, comfortable, and light---quite superior in every way to the Sitbacker.
Though comfortable for up to three hours, the seat is somewhat hard. I've no problem with the width of the back frame, but it may be more of a problem for those with narrow shoulders. The seat will raise your center of gravity, but that can be cured by lowering the factory bench seat. The front to back width of the seat is a bit narrow for my behind, but so is the factory bench in my Wenonah Sandpiper. I would prefer two adjusting straps for the seat back instead of one, it would help reduce the tendency of the seat to stretch back farther than I like. The seat lacks a positive latch to keep it folded down when loading. I use a bungee to hold it in the down position.
I would not recommend the seat to anyone with relatively narrow shoulders. If you, like me, spend more than three or so hours in the seat of the canoe, then the Sitbacker is going to be butt numbing. Overall, the seat is O.K., but surely someone can do it better. Think I'll try a Crazy Creek when/if I get the funds.
On my 3 solo canoes the Sitbacker was comfortable and very easy on my aging back. But it is less useful for me than my other 2 canoe seats. For my size, 5' 7", 140 lbs., it is too wide for the way I paddle. I hit the rigid metal back frame with my elbows when I use my torso on the paddle stroke. This was more pronounced with a kayak paddle than a canoe paddle.
Although the seat bottom padding is thick, it is a bit hard. The Sitbacker is also heavier and more work to portage than my other seats. This was partly because the portage yoke systems that I have fitted to my canoes required the Sitbacker to be removed. Ditto for car topping. My other seats can be left in place. It is certainly strong with a good range of back adjustment and high marks for all around, day long comfort. For a larger person who is not going to portage much, this would be a wonderful seat at a good price, a "10" for certain. I only wish it worked better for me.