The Stokke Tripp Trapp high chair offers an adjustable, ergonomic design that grows with children from infancy through toddlerhood. Reviewers praised its sturdy construction and safety features, particularly how it supports proper posture and mealtime engagement. However, assembly proved challenging due to unclear instructions and numerous small parts. Some users noted that straps became difficult to adjust as children grew, leading to frustration and safety concerns. The chair is best suited for families seeking a premium, long-lasting high chair but may not be ideal for those prioritizing ease of setup or toddler mobility.
Full review
Design and Concept
The Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair 2 represents a design philosophy centered on child development and family integration, rather than conventional high chair functionality. According to Fathercraft's Matt H., the chair's Norwegian origins and mission to 'support parents and caregivers as they support their children to grow up confidently' distinguish it from typical seating solutions. The chair's design, credited to designer Peter Opsvik as 'the designer who set a new standard for sitting,' creates a physical proximity between child and family table that promotes connection and inclusion during meals. This approach fundamentally differs from standard high chairs, which typically position children at a distance from the family dining experience. The chair's adjustable footplate and ergonomic positioning allow children to shift and move, supporting natural development and preventing the slumped posture that some reviewers noted in earlier models.
The chair's aesthetic appeal is significant, with Fathercraft's Matt H. noting its display in the permanent exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), which speaks to its design sophistication. The chair's modular nature allows it to grow with the child from infancy through toddlerhood, with the company's marketing emphasizing its longevity beyond typical high chair lifespans. However, the design's complexity is evident in its assembly process, which, according to Fathercraft's review, requires careful attention to detailed instructions and can be challenging for first-time users. The chair's construction uses European beech or oak wood, with 14 color options available, allowing for personalization that aligns with modern home décor trends. The shift from leather crotch straps to plastic baby seats in newer models reflects a move toward easier cleaning, though this change also introduced new challenges with the harness system.
BBC Good Food's Emily Boyce noted that the chair's evolution includes replacing the wooden front bar and back rest with a clip-on plastic baby seat, making it easier to remove for cleaning. This design change, while practical for maintenance, also introduced new challenges with the harness system. The chair's ability to tuck neatly under the table and its solid construction make it suitable for families seeking a long-term seating solution. However, the chair's design also requires careful positioning to ensure safety, as noted by multiple reviewers who mentioned that toddlers can push the table away if not correctly placed. The chair's overall concept positions it as a premium investment for families who value design, longevity, and child development support over traditional high chair functionality.
Assembly and Setup
Assembly of the Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair 2 presents a significant challenge for most users, as highlighted by Fathercraft's Matt H. who noted the absence of written instructions, relying solely on pictures that he found to be 'fairly vague.' The process involves numerous small components including 12 bolts, washers, and various pieces that can easily be misplaced, particularly when a child is assisting. This complexity is compounded by the fact that the chair requires careful attention to detail, as H. discovered when he inadvertently skipped a step during assembly, requiring him to deconstruct the chair back to the missed step. The chair's design requires specific adjustments using an Allen key, with some nuts needing to be left loose until the final stages of assembly. The complexity of assembly is further exacerbated by the need to fit separate instructions for the harness, baby set, and cushions, which must be read together before beginning the main construction process.
The assembly process is further complicated by the chair's modular nature, which requires careful coordination of multiple components to achieve proper positioning. According to Fathercraft's review, the chair's construction is sturdy and reliable once assembled, but the time investment and attention required make it less suitable for users seeking a quick setup solution. The chair's design includes specific adjustment mechanisms for different age groups, which must be carefully executed to ensure proper fit and safety. The chair's components include a base, adjustable seat, footplate, and various support mechanisms that must be precisely aligned. The chair's complexity is evident in the need for multiple steps to achieve proper positioning, with some reviewers noting that the process can take considerable time and requires patience. The assembly process also involves careful attention to safety features, particularly the harness system, which requires multiple steps to properly install and adjust.
Reddit users in the r/babygear community have echoed similar concerns about the chair's assembly complexity, with one user noting that the chair requires 'a lot of patience and attention to detail' to properly assemble. The chair's design, while functional, creates a learning curve that can be frustrating for new users. The chair's modular components, while designed for longevity and adjustability, also create challenges during the initial setup phase. The chair's construction requires careful alignment of multiple parts, and any misalignment can result in improper positioning or safety concerns. The assembly process also involves understanding the specific requirements for different age groups, which can be confusing for parents who are new to the product. The chair's complexity is further compounded by the need for specific tools, including an Allen key, and the requirement for multiple steps to achieve proper positioning and safety features.
Safety and Adjustability
Safety features in the Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair 2 are designed to support child development while maintaining appropriate positioning during meals. The chair's adjustable footplate allows children to shift and move, promoting natural development and preventing the slumped posture that some reviewers noted in earlier models. BBC Good Food's Emily Boyce emphasized that the chair's design pushes children up to the table, helping them feel included in family meals, which also contributes to safety by ensuring proper positioning. The chair's adjustable components include the seat height, footplate, and back support, which can be adjusted to accommodate different age groups from infancy through toddlerhood. However, the chair's safety features are not without criticism, as noted by Cashmere & Jeans' reviewer who mentioned that the straps are 'incredibly hard to adjust' and 'way too short' for growing toddlers, creating safety concerns as children become more mobile.
The chair's harness system, while designed to keep children secure, presents challenges for parents. According to Cashmere & Jeans' reviewer, the straps are difficult to adjust and often too short for growing children, requiring parents to watch their children closely and frequently reposition the straps. This becomes particularly problematic as children grow and become more active, with one reviewer noting that toddlers would try to stand up and tip the chair over, necessitating constant supervision. The chair's design also includes a baby set that provides side and back support, which is recommended for children who can sit unaided (around 6 months). The baby set's effectiveness is noted in BBC Good Food's review, where it was described as providing 'side and back support, allowing your little one to develop the skill of sitting.' However, the chair's adjustability also creates potential safety concerns, as noted by Cashmere & Jeans' reviewer who mentioned that the seat part became 'really easy to come undone' as the child grew older.
The chair's safety features also include its ability to be positioned close to the table, which reduces the risk of children falling or becoming trapped. However, the chair's design also presents challenges for parents, particularly in terms of the harness system's adjustability. The chair's construction requires careful attention to safety features, as noted by multiple reviewers who emphasized the importance of proper positioning and adjustment. The chair's modular nature allows for multiple safety features to be adjusted according to the child's age and development stage, but this also requires careful attention to detail. The chair's overall safety profile is considered strong by most reviewers, but the complexity of the harness system and the need for frequent adjustments can create challenges for busy parents.
Real-World Performance
In real-world usage, the Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair 2 demonstrates both strengths and limitations that vary significantly with the child's age and development stage. Fathercraft's Matt H. found the chair to be sturdy and reliable during his two-month testing period with his six-month-old, noting that it provided a good middle ground between bulky and portable high chairs. The chair's ability to adjust to different heights and positions was particularly appreciated, as it allowed for proper positioning of the child during meals. However, the chair's performance in terms of ease of use and cleaning was mixed, with one reviewer noting that the chair's design makes it difficult to clean properly, particularly around the adjustable components. The chair's performance in terms of durability was noted by multiple reviewers, with one reviewer stating that the chair's construction was 'solid' and 'reliable' once properly assembled.
Cashmere & Jeans' reviewer provided a contrasting perspective, noting that while the chair was initially loved for its ability to push her child up so she sat upright and could reach the tray easily, the experience became problematic as the child grew. The reviewer noted that the chair's design, while initially appealing, became less suitable for older toddlers who began to test its limits. The chair's ability to be positioned close to the table was appreciated, but the chair's stability became a concern as children grew more active. The reviewer noted that the chair's seat part became 'really easy to come undone' as the child grew older, creating safety concerns. The chair's performance in terms of mealtime experience was mixed, with the initial positive experience giving way to frustration as the child became more mobile and the chair's limitations became apparent.
BBC Good Food's Emily Boyce found the chair to be 'solid construction' and 'genuine longevity' that lasts into adulthood, with the chair's ability to sit the child at the family table being particularly appreciated. However, the reviewer also noted that the chair's performance in terms of ease of transport and storage was problematic, as the chair's design makes it difficult to move or store when not in use. The chair's performance in terms of mealtime experience was generally positive, with the chair's ability to encourage good posture and family inclusion being noted as significant advantages. However, the reviewer also noted that the chair's performance in terms of ease of cleaning was mixed, with some components being difficult to clean properly. The chair's overall performance was considered good by most reviewers, but the complexity of its design and the need for frequent adjustments created challenges for busy parents.
Where It Falls Short
The Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair 2's primary shortcomings stem from its complexity and the challenges it presents to parents seeking convenience. The chair's assembly process, as noted by Fathercraft's Matt H., is notably difficult and time-consuming, requiring careful attention to detailed instructions and multiple steps that can be frustrating for first-time users. The chair's design, while functional, creates a learning curve that can be particularly challenging for busy parents. The harness system, according to Cashmere & Jeans' reviewer, is 'incredibly hard to adjust' and 'way too short' for growing children, creating safety concerns and requiring frequent repositioning. This becomes particularly problematic as children become more active and mobile, necessitating constant supervision and adjustment.
The chair's design also presents challenges in terms of cleaning and maintenance. Multiple reviewers noted that the chair's adjustable components make it difficult to clean properly, with some areas being particularly challenging to reach. The chair's construction, while solid, also makes it difficult to transport or store when not in use, as noted by BBC Good Food's Emily Boyce who mentioned that the chair's design makes it 'difficult to move or store.' The chair's accessories, including the baby set and cushions, are also noted as being expensive and potentially unnecessary. The chair's overall design, while appealing, creates practical challenges that can frustrate parents seeking a simple, straightforward solution. The chair's longevity, while appreciated by some reviewers, also creates challenges as children grow and the chair's limitations become apparent.
The chair's pricing is another significant drawback, as noted by multiple reviewers who emphasized that the chair's cost is 'as much as a high-end car seat' and 'expensive accessories.' The chair's price point, while reflecting its premium construction and design, may not be justified for families seeking a simple, functional high chair. The chair's accessories, including the baby set and cushions, are particularly expensive and may not be necessary for all users. The chair's design also creates challenges in terms of resale value, as noted by one reviewer who mentioned that the chair's 'great re-sale value' was a positive aspect, but also noted that the chair's complexity and the need for frequent adjustments may limit its appeal to future buyers.
Who It's Best For
The Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair 2 is best suited for families who value design, longevity, and child development support over traditional high chair functionality. According to Fathercraft's Matt H., the chair is ideal for parents who want a 'chair that grows with the child' and who appreciate the 'fancy' design that can be displayed in their home. The chair's ability to position children at the family table and encourage good posture makes it particularly appealing to families who prioritize family inclusion during meals. The chair's construction and adjustability also make it suitable for families who want a long-term investment that can be used from infancy through toddlerhood. However, the chair's complexity and the challenges it presents to parents seeking convenience make it less suitable for busy families who need a simple, straightforward solution.
The chair is particularly well-suited for families who have the time and resources to invest in proper assembly and maintenance. BBC Good Food's Emily Boyce noted that the chair's 'genuine longevity' and 'solid construction' make it a good investment for families who want a chair that can last into adulthood. The chair's ability to be positioned close to the table and encourage good posture is particularly appreciated by families who want to promote healthy eating habits. However, the chair's design also requires careful attention to safety features, which may not be suitable for families who are not willing to invest the time and effort required for proper positioning and adjustment. The chair's price point, while reflecting its premium construction and design, may not be justified for families seeking a simple, functional high chair.
The chair is also best suited for families who appreciate the aesthetic value of their products and are willing to invest in a premium solution. The chair's design, which has been displayed in the MOMA, appeals to families who want a product that serves both functional and decorative purposes. The chair's ability to be personalized with various color options and accessories also makes it appealing to families who want to customize their products to match their home décor. However, the chair's complexity and the need for frequent adjustments may not be suitable for families who are looking for a simple, straightforward solution. The chair's overall suitability depends on the family's priorities, with those who value design, longevity, and child development support being the best fit for this product.
Value at This Price
The Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair 2's price point of $319 reflects its premium construction and design, but the value proposition is complex and depends on individual family needs and priorities. Fathercraft's Matt H. noted that the chair's cost is 'as much as a high-end car seat,' which suggests that families must weigh the premium against their budget constraints. The chair's construction, which uses European beech or oak wood, and its ability to grow with the child make it a potentially good long-term investment. However, the chair's accessories, including the baby set and cushions, are particularly expensive, with the baby set priced at $47 and the Newborn Set at $79, according to Stokke's website. These additional costs can significantly increase the total investment required for the chair to function optimally.
BBC Good Food's Emily Boyce noted that the chair's 'genuine longevity' and 'solid construction' make it a good investment for families who want a chair that can last into adulthood. The chair's ability to be positioned close to the table and encourage good posture is particularly appreciated by families who want to promote healthy eating habits. However, the reviewer also noted that the chair's 'expensive accessories' and the 'fiddly harness' may not justify the price for all users. The chair's design also creates challenges in terms of resale value, with one reviewer noting that while the chair has 'great re-sale value,' the complexity and the need for frequent adjustments may limit its appeal to future buyers. The chair's overall value proposition depends on the family's priorities, with those who value design, longevity, and child development support being more likely to find the price justified.
The chair's value is also affected by its complexity and the time investment required for proper assembly and maintenance. The chair's modular nature, while designed for adjustability and longevity, also creates challenges for busy parents who may not have the time or patience to invest in the detailed setup process. The chair's performance in terms of mealtime experience is generally positive, but the need for frequent adjustments and the challenges of the harness system can create frustration for parents. The chair's overall value is best assessed by families who are willing to invest in the time and effort required for proper setup and maintenance, and who prioritize design, longevity, and child development support over convenience and simplicity.
Strengths
- +Adjustable design that grows with child from infancy to toddler years
- +Sturdy and solid construction suitable for young children
- +Ergonomic seating position promotes proper posture and safety during meals
- +Easy to clean with wipeable surfaces and dishwasher-safe components
Watch-outs
- −Difficult and time-consuming assembly process with vague instructions
- −Straps are hard to adjust and too short for growing toddlers
How it compares
The Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair offers superior ergonomic support compared to the Baby Jogger City Bistro and Evenflo Bria RightSeat Multistage High Chair, but it's significantly more difficult to assemble than the Stokke Clikk, which offers tool-free setup. While it's more adjustable than the Inglesina Fast Table Chair, it's less portable and lacks the space-saving bracket system that makes the Inglesina ideal for travel. Unlike the Mockingbird High Chair, it doesn't convert into a child chair, making it less versatile for growing families.
Who this is for
At a glance: families prioritizing ergonomic design.
Why you’d buy the Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair 2
- Adjustable design that grows with child from infancy to toddler years.
- Sturdy and solid construction suitable for young children.
- Ergonomic seating position promotes proper posture and safety during meals.
Why you’d skip it
- Difficult and time-consuming assembly process with vague instructions.
- Straps are hard to adjust and too short for growing toddlers.
Rating sources
“From day one, I loved this high chair, especially compared to the one we were using. It pushed her up so she sat upright.”
“This versatile, attractive and well-made high chair is one of the best baby products on the market.”
“In a nutshell, even though its pricey, I think its worth it, especially if you can get it secondhand or will be using it for multiple kids.”
Our 4.3 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
