This is an excellent question that gets to the heart of modern public design. The short answer is: it depends heavily on the specific piece. The aesthetic of "urban outdoor furniture" often prioritizes durability, vandal-resistance, and sleek, modern lines. This can sometimes come at the expense of plush comfort.
However, the best contemporary designs successfully merge form and function. Look for pieces with ergonomic contours that support the lower back, seats with a slight recline, and armrests at a comfortable height. Materials are key: wide, smooth slats of thermally modified wood or powder-coated aluminum are far more comfortable for long periods than narrow, hard slats or bare metal.
For extended activities like reading, seek out longer benches with back support, chaise lounge-style chairs, or integrated seating with slightly padded sections. The true test is whether you can forget about the furniture itself and lose yourself in your book. While not all urban furniture passes this test, a growing category is designed with exactly this kind of prolonged, leisurely comfort in mind, transforming public spaces into inviting outdoor living rooms.