Reply by Microsuffer

FWIW I used 3 layers of 3/4 MDF and 1/4 birch ply as cladding. The latter because I wanted a cool looking surface to cover the battleship I was making. And I was reluctant to buy an expensive work bench and then tear it up with some newby mistakes. The biggest problem with that cheap and simple solution it is that it is so good I have difficulties justifying a better bench. But the itch for better is there.

-- "Those are my principals, if you don't like them....I have others." - Groucho Marx