Why I Bought That Ladder Seat
Last Mardi Gras my kid couldn’t see crap over the crowds. Felt like garbage dad watching him stare at butts while floats rolled by. Saw other folks with ladder seats looking cozy, figured I’d jump on that train.
Dumb Assumptions Before Buying
Thought it’d be simple – grab any cheap ladder chair combo off online. Big mistake. Learned this ain’t regular ladder shopping when my buddy Carl’s rig nearly toppled in wind last year. That clacking sound still gives me nightmares.
The Research Phase
Started digging through forums and regulations. Three things slapped me in the face:
- Height restrictions matter way more than I thought – police tape measures out there like it’s a crime scene
- Weight limits aren’t suggestions – saw a drunk guy break one climbing up backwards
- Those “folding” claims are full of crap – my trunk still has dents from test runs
Testing Ground Disaster
Bought three models to try in my yard before parade day. First one wobbled like Jell-O when the dog brushed against it. Second had seat straps that snapped when my overweight neighbor sat down – still owe him beer for that. Third one left rust stains all over my driveway. Called the manufacturer and they basically said “lol sucks to be you”.
What Actually Worked
Finally found this industrial-looking beast that weighs a ton but doesn’t budge. Key things that made diffrence:
- Rubber feet with spikes – sank into grass like vampire teeth
- Triple locking joints – heard that CLICK sound that means business
- Seat belt built in – kid treated it like rollercoaster ride
Parade Day Success
Set up 2 hours early cause rules changed since last year. Cops eyeballed our setup but thumbs-upped the safety stickers. Wind picked up bad when floats came by – other ladders nearby shook like maracas while ours stayed planted. Kid caught 87 pounds of beads without almost dying. Worth every damn penny.
What You Must Know
If you thinking about getting one, don’t be stupid like me. Test that crap THOROUGHLY before hauling to parade route. Watch for:
- Flimsy materials that bend if you breath on em hard
- Missing safety certification stamps
- Straps that feel like dollar store quality
Ended up costing triple what I wanted to spend, but cheaper than emergency room visit. Now my back hurts from carrying it six blocks – that’s next year’s problem.
