Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair: The Dad’s Deep Dive Review
Introduction
Hello to all the hardworking dads out there who want nothing but the best for their families! Today, we’re talking about a piece of furniture that’s going to be a big part of your child’s life: the high chair. But not just any high chair; we’re diving deep into the Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair. You might have heard of it, and it’s not by chance; this chair has a storied history. So grab a coffee or perhaps a ‘dad-sized’ soda because we’re going to explore whether this high chair lives up to the hype and if it’s right for your family.
Pros
- Adaptability: Easily the biggest selling point. The chair adjusts as your child grows, making it a long-term investment.
- Quality: Premium materials and construction mean this chair will last for years.
- Design: It’s sleek and modern, complementing rather than clashing with adult furniture.
- Safety: With its stable construction and five-point harness, it’s a chair you can trust.
- Easy to Clean: As anyone with kids knows, this is a big one. A quick wipe down is generally all it takes.
Cons
- Price: Quality comes at a price. This chair is an investment, which might not be feasible for everyone.
- Accessories Cost Extra: It would be nice if at least some of the additional accessories came included in the initial purchase.
- Space: It’s not the smallest high chair on the market, so it may be a tight fit in smaller dining areas.
A Bit of Stokke History
Before we get into the nuts and bolts, let’s talk about the company behind this chair—Stokke. Stokke has been in the business since 1932. Originally hailing from the scenic west coast of Norway, they have had a focus on seating solutions for decades. However, it wasn’t until 1972, with the launch of the Tripp Trapp designed by Peter Opsvik, that they ventured into children’s furniture.
This was a game-changing move for them. The chair not only revolutionized the children’s chair category but also became an icon of sorts, a must-have piece in the stylish, ergonomic world of Scandinavian design. The company further expanded its range in the ’90s and launched its first stroller, the Xplory, in 2003. Since 2006, Stokke has been focused solely on premium children’s furniture and equipment, making them a market leader in several categories across numerous countries.
Philosophy and Design Approach
It’s worth noting that Stokke’s design philosophy has a human-centric approach. They are not just making furniture; they aim to enhance the bonding and connection between parents and children. The parent-facing design approach, especially seen in the Tripp Trapp, promotes this ethos. The idea is that a child needs to feel a sense of connection with their loved ones to feel safe and secure. This is what sets the Tripp Trapp apart; it’s not just a chair, according to Stokke—it’s an investment in your child’s emotional and physical well-being. That may be a bit of a stretch, but it is a hell of a good chair.
The Tripp Trapp’s Legacy
The Stokke Tripp Trapp is not a new kid on the block; it’s been around since 1972. Over the years, it’s evolved into a product loved by families worldwide. This chair screams Scandi-chic—practical, stylish, with clean lines and functionality. If you’ve ever flipped through a baby or child lifestyle magazine, you’ve likely seen the Tripp Trapp making everything look effortlessly cool. It works well in a minimalist home, as well as at your favorite cabin.
What’s in the Box?
So, you’ve made the investment and that iconic box has finally arrived at your doorstep. Exciting times! But what exactly is inside this package? Here’s a quick rundown:
- Seat and footplate, both made of high-quality European beech wood
- Two side frames
- Two guide rails for assembling
- Five-point harness system for safety
- Screws, Allen key, and other necessary hardware
- User manual and warranty information
First Impressions
As soon as you open the box, you’ll notice that the parts are carefully packaged to prevent damage. The wood is solid and feels premium to the touch. There’s a sense of craftsmanship in every component. The five-point harness system is robust, and the metal and plastic components are of high quality. Overall, the unboxing experience itself already makes you feel like you’ve got your money’s worth.
Tripp Trapp Assembly
If you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate that Stokke understands the value of easy assembly. The Tripp Trapp comes with a fairly straightforward user manual with clear, step-by-step instructions and illustrations. Building all of this furniture sucks, to be honest. It’s exciting for the first item, and after that it’s not much of anything but time you could be using to do something else.
The Tripp Trapp was surprisingly straightforward to put together.
Usability and Experience
Adjustability
One of the Tripp Trapp’s key features is its adaptability. The seat and footplate are fully adjustable, allowing the chair to grow with your kid. You can set the height and depth of both to ensure ergonomic seating at any age—from 6 months (when many babies start to sit unassisted) up to adulthood. Yes, you read that right: freakin’ adulthood. This means you’re not just buying a high chair; you’re essentially buying a chair for life. To be fair, however, you’ll probably use the dining room chairs that came with your table instead of the Tripp Trapp once you are an adult, but it would be a nice garage chair for the workbench.
Safety
The safety of our little kids is always a top priority. The Tripp Trapp comes with a five-point harness system that is both secure and easy to use. The locking mechanism is sturdy, and the straps are easy to adjust. Plus, the chair’s robust design makes it incredibly stable. There’s no wobbling or risk of tipping over, even with an active toddler climbing in and out.
Aesthetics
Let’s be honest; nobody wants an eyesore in their dining room or kitchen. The Tripp Trapp, with its clean lines and high-quality finish, fits seamlessly into any home décor. The wood looks and feels premium, and the chair is available in a crapload of colors, so you’re sure to find one that matches your interior.
Accessories: The Icing on the Cake
While the Tripp Trapp is fantastic right out of the box, Stokke offers a range of accessories to enhance the chair’s utility and comfort. Here are a few notable ones:
Baby Set
Ideal for infants and smaller toddlers, the Baby Set provides additional support and stability. It includes a high backrest and a rail with an integrated crotch strap. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to install and remove, allowing for quick adjustments as your child grows.
Tray
Though the Tripp Trapp is designed to fit right up to your dining table, you can also opt for a detachable tray. This is perfect for those times when you’re not eating at the table but still want a secure, easy-to-clean surface for your child.
Cushions
Stokke offers a variety of cushion sets that not only add a pop of color to your chair but also provide extra comfort. These are especially useful as your child transitions from a high chair to a youth chair, offering a cozy seat for longer sitting periods.
Storage
There’s also an optional storage bag that attaches to the back of the chair, handy for stowing away bibs, wipes, or your child’s favorite toys.
Final Thoughts
The Stokke Tripp Trapp is more than just a high chair; it’s a lifetime chair. Its exceptional design, robust safety features, and incredible adaptability make it an excellent investment for any family. While the initial cost and the price of accessories might set you back a bit, the long-term benefits and quality easily justify the expense.
So, is it NRFT-approved? Absolutely, yes. And it’s not just for your peace of mind as a parent but also for the comfort and well-being of your child, which, at the end of the day, is what matters most. If you have the money for this, it’s a solid purchase and much more fun that those plastic, roll-around, spaghetti-stained chairs that fill out the more affordable selections.
