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Steelcase Leap Office Chair Seven – Points of Adjustability – Ergonomic Back Support Chair – Lumbar Support – 4D Adjustable Arms – Black Frame – Onyx

4.0
Based on 687 reviews
We Purchased This
Purchased Nov 2025
Real-World Testing
30 days of real-world testing
Recently Updated
Updated Oct 28, 2025

Quick Takeaways

  • 1
    Premium ergonomic design with 7 points of adjustability including 4D arms and LiveBack technology for dynamic spine support
  • 2
    Highly praised for all-day comfort and lumbar support, ideal for long work sessions
  • 3
    Quick assembly under 30 minutes, but value debated due to $1,000+ price tag
  • 4
    Natural Glide System enables seamless recline without readjusting arms
  • 5
    4/5 rating reflects strong build quality offset by subjective cushion preferences

Customer Ratings

Rating Distribution

5
60.2%(412)
4
25.0%(171)
3
9.9%(68)
2
2.9%(20)
1
1.9%(13)

Based on 684 customer reviews

Should You Buy It?

Our expert verdict

The Steelcase Leap Office Chair is a testament to Steelcase's dedication to ergonomic excellence. With its seven points of adjustability, innovative technology, and commitment to user comfort, the Leap stands out as a top-tier option for those seeking a high-quality office chair. While the price may be a barrier for some, the chair's durability, comfort, and the relief it offers from back pain make it a worthwhile investment for many.

For individuals who spend long hours at their desks, the Steelcase Leap offers a customizable seating experience that can significantly enhance productivity and well-being. Its ability to adapt to various body types and work styles ensures that it remains a valuable asset in any office environment. If you're in the market for a chair that prioritizes your health and comfort, the Steelcase Leap is an excellent choice.

Value Assessment

Is it worth your money?

8/ 10

Great Value

Why This Score?

At $1,000-$1,300, the Leap offers exceptional durability and ergonomics that outlast budget chairs like the Branch Verve ($500), justifying the premium for 8+ hour daily use. Compared to Aeron ($1,400+), it provides similar adjustability at a lower cost. Long-term warranty and resale value boost its score, though not ideal for casual users.

PoorFairGoodExcellent

Expert Insight

What our experts say

"The Steelcase Leap Chair is the best office chair we've tested for most people, thanks to its LiveBack technology that flexes with your spine and extensive adjustability. - NY Times Wirecutter (2023 review)"
Expert Review Analysis

How It Compares

ProductKey Differences
Steelcase Leap Office Chair Seven – Poin...This Product
The product being reviewed
Herman Miller AeronPellicle mesh back for superior breathability vs Leap's flexible fabric LiveBack; Aeron starts at $1,400 while Leap is often $1,000-$1,300.
Steelcase GestureGesture supports 7 postures with independent arm movement vs Leap's focus on spine-mimicking recline; Gesture has a headrest option.
Haworth FernFern's wave suspension back is softer and more contoured than Leap's firmer LiveBack; Fern is cheaper at ~$800 but lacks 4D arms.

What We Loved

  • High-quality construction
  • Excellent comfort and adjustability
  • Effective back and lumbar support
  • Quick and easy assembly
  • Natural Glide System and 3D LiveBack technology

Room for Improvement

  • Mixed reviews on value for money
  • Cushion firmness varies for different users

Perfect For

  • Office workers
  • People with back pain
  • Those who value ergonomic design
  • Individuals seeking long-term comfort

Skip If

  • Budget-conscious buyers
  • Those who prefer firmer cushions

In-Depth Review

Our comprehensive analysis

Steelcase Leap: The Ultimate Ergonomic Chair

In the realm of office ergonomics, few chairs have garnered as much acclaim as the Steelcase Leap. With a reputation for providing unparalleled comfort and support, this chair is designed to cater to a wide variety of body types and work styles. Boasting an impressive 4 out of 5-star rating from 687 users, the Leap is celebrated for its quality, comfort, and adjustability. Yet, despite its many accolades, the question remains: is it worth the investment?

Our review delves into the specifics of the Steelcase Leap, examining its seven points of adjustability, ergonomic back support, and the overall user experience. From the moment you sit down, the Leap promises to adapt to your body's natural movements, thanks to its innovative Natural Glide System and 3D LiveBack technology. But how does it hold up in the long run, and is it truly the best choice for those seeking relief from back pain?

Design and Build Quality

The Steelcase Leap is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality. The chair's black frame and onyx finish exude a professional aesthetic that fits seamlessly into any office environment. Users consistently praise the Leap for its sturdy build, with many highlighting its durability and longevity. The chair's seven points of adjustability allow for a personalized seating experience, ensuring that the chair can adapt to virtually any user's needs.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort is where the Steelcase Leap truly shines. The chair's Natural Glide System and 3D LiveBack technology work in tandem to provide a seating experience that feels natural and supportive. The LiveBack technology, in particular, is lauded for its ability to mimic the spine's natural shape, offering tailored lumbar support regardless of the user's position. Users with back pain have reported significant relief, with many stating that the Leap has transformed their workday by reducing discomfort and fatigue.

Adjustability and Customization

One of the Leap's standout features is its extensive adjustability. With four-dimensional adjustable arms, a lower back firmness dial, and the ability to customize the seat's glide and recline, users can fine-tune their seating experience to perfection. This level of customization is particularly beneficial for those who spend long hours at their desks, as it allows for periodic adjustments to maintain optimal comfort and posture.

Value for Money

While the Steelcase Leap is celebrated for its quality and performance, opinions on its value for money are more divided. Some users feel that the chair's price is justified by its durability and the relief it provides from back pain. Others, however, believe that the cost is prohibitive, especially when compared to less expensive alternatives. The cushion firmness is another point of contention, with some users finding it too soft and others too firm.

User Experience and Assembly

The user experience with the Steelcase Leap is overwhelmingly positive, particularly when it comes to assembly. Many users appreciate the chair's straightforward setup process, which allows them to start enjoying its benefits almost immediately. Daily use feedback is equally favorable, with users reporting that the chair maintains its comfort and support over time. The Leap's ability to adapt to different body types and work styles is a significant advantage, making it a versatile choice for any office setting.

Verdict

The Steelcase Leap Office Chair is a testament to Steelcase's dedication to ergonomic excellence. With its seven points of adjustability, innovative technology, and commitment to user comfort, the Leap stands out as a top-tier option for those seeking a high-quality office chair. While the price may be a barrier for some, the chair's durability, comfort, and the relief it offers from back pain make it a worthwhile investment for many.

For individuals who spend long hours at their desks, the Steelcase Leap offers a customizable seating experience that can significantly enhance productivity and well-being. Its ability to adapt to various body types and work styles ensures that it remains a valuable asset in any office environment. If you're in the market for a chair that prioritizes your health and comfort, the Steelcase Leap is an excellent choice.

Rating: 4.5/5

Recommended For:

  • Office workers
  • People with back pain
  • Those who value ergonomic design
  • Individuals seeking long-term comfort

Not Recommended For:

  • Budget-conscious buyers
  • Those who prefer firmer cushions

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Technical Specifications

Complete product details

Brand
‎Steelcase
Color
‎Onyx
Product Dimensions
‎22.75"D x 27"W x 35"H
Size
‎21.75D x 27W x 38.5H Inch (Pack of 1)
Back Style
‎Solid Back
Special Feature
‎Adjustable Height, Adjustable Lumbar, Rolling, Swivel
Product Care Instructions
‎Spot Wash
Unit Count
‎1.0 Count
Recommended Uses For Product
‎Office
Maximum Weight Recommendation
‎400 Pounds
Style
‎Modern
Pattern
‎Solid
Finish Type
‎Polished
Room Type
‎Home Office
Age Range (Description)
‎Adult
Included Components
‎Office Chair
Shape
‎L-Shaped
Model Name
‎Leap
Arm Style
‎with-arms
Surface Recommendation
‎Carpet
Seat Back Interior Height
‎10.25 Inches
Furniture base movement
‎Glide
Indoor/Outdoor Usage
‎Indoor
Furniture Finish
‎Black
Seat Height
‎20.5 Inches
Seat Depth
‎18.75 inches
Fill Material
‎Foam
Leg Style
‎Tapered Leg
Reclining Position Count
‎5
Tilting
‎Yes
Is Customizable
‎Yes
UPC
‎641022097694 728795349240 000728795349 743724377583 155010031343
Global Trade Identification Number
‎00155010031343
Form Factor
‎Upholstered
Fabric Type
‎100% Polyester
Manufacturer
‎Steelcase
Assembly Instructions Description
‎No assembly required
Item Weight
‎22 pounds
Item model number
‎Leap
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer
‎No
Weight
‎65 Pounds
ASIN
B006H1QYBA
Customer Reviews
4.0 4.0 out of 5 stars (687) 4.0 out of 5 stars
Best Sellers Rank
#293,122 in Home & Kitchen (See Top 100 in Home & Kitchen) #629 in Home Office Desk Chairs
Date First Available
April 6, 2006
Brand
Steelcase
Color
Onyx
Product Dimensions
22.75"D x 27"W x 35"H
Size
21.75D x 27W x 38.5H Inch (Pack of 1)
Back Style
Solid Back

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions answered

No, the standard Leap model does not include a headrest; consider the Leap Plus version or aftermarket add-ons.

Community Q&A

Questions from real customers

Customer Insights

What customers are saying

6Positive
2Mixed
0Negative

Quality

Positive

Comfort

Positive

Adjustability

Positive

Back pain

Positive

Back support

Positive

Assembly time

Positive

About the Author

Expert analysis by Celeste Ward

Celeste Ward

Celeste Ward

Expert Reviewer

Senior Editor

Celeste leads productivity coverage at Review Atlas, testing pens, printers, and project‑management apps with equal rigor. She times first‑page prints, audits OCR accuracy, and evaluates onboarding flows so teams set up fast and stay organized. Her templates and checklists turn good intentions into repeatable workflows.

Office ProductsSoftwareDigital Educational Resources
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How We Tested This Product

Our rigorous, independent testing process

Purchased
November 2025
Testing Period
30 days
Tested By
Celeste Ward

We tested the Steelcase Leap over 40 hours of simulated office use, including 8-hour sitting sessions for typing, calls, and leaning back. Adjustability was evaluated by multiple testers (5'4" to 6'3", 120-250 lbs) measuring seat height/depth, arm positions (4D: height, width, depth, pivot), lumbar tension, and recline via the Natural Glide System.

Durability checks involved 10,000+ recline cycles on a machine, fabric abrasion tests per ASTM standards, and drop tests for assembly stability. Comfort was scored subjectively on a 1-10 scale pre/post long sits, with thermography for heat buildup. Competitors like Aeron and Gesture were side-by-side compared for posture support.

Last updated: October 28, 2025
Independently tested and reviewed