Steelcase Leap v1 vs. v2: Comparison 2024

Advancements in technology have crippled us, but it has also benefited us for the better. One such example of this is the brand, Steelcase. It is one of the renowned office chair brands in the market, ensuring to prioritize comfort for the users.

But, ever since the launch of the Steelcase Leap v1 in 1999, people have been extremely inclined towards this chair for its design, comfort, and ease of movement. Steelcase’s particular launch became one of the most popular bestsellers, selling over 5000 chairs a week.

And, then the Steelcase Leap v2 was launched. As human nature, people’s preferences shifted and some liked the second version of this office chair better.

With so many different and similar features, which out of the two do I think is the best office chair in the market? Well, scroll down to find more about the same.

Table of Contents

• Steelcase Leap v1 vs. Steelcase Leap v2: Features Comparison
  • Back Design
  • Armrest
  • Cushioning
  • Base Shape and Construction
• Steelcase Leap v1 vs. v2 – Similarities and Differences

Steelcase Leap v1 vs. Steelcase Leap v2: Features Comparison

Steelcase has introduced many new changes that you likely didn’t see in the first version of the office chair, from the back design to the ease of movement. This comparative analysis of the features will help you get a better idea of which one to choose, as per your convenience.

Back Design

If you are particular about the back design of an office chair, you will likely prefer the Steelcase Leap v2 because of the high-rise back design. It allows you to rest your back better and even get more support for your neck and shoulders.

The Steelcase Leap v1, on the other hand, has a more flared out and shorter back design. The latter option is a lot better for taller users who need a higher backrest.

But, if you have a short to a medium height that needs a more spread out back support in their office chair, the Leap v1 is the better option. It has a better arch design that provides better lower-back support.

Armrest

Another factor about office chairs that users look for is the armrest. The armrest design did undergo a lot of changes from the first to the second version. I have a slight bias towards the steel construction of the Steelcase Leap v1’s steel armrest instead of the second version’s plastic structure.

The steel construction is a lot more durable and sturdy than the plastic construction in the second version. That doesn’t mean that the plastic armrests are extremely bad, but they are not as stable as the first version.

The one positive change to the armrest design in v2 was the reduced vertical portion around the armrest. It helped reduce the rattle and the movements that should have otherwise happened with the plastic armrests available in today’s modern-day chairs.

Cushioning

The cushion thickness is another factor that needs your attention right away. Even with the thinner cushion, the v2 offers a lot more comfort and stability to your posture throughout the day. On the other hand, the Leap v1 has a thicker cushioning, which stood out to the users’ interests right away.

Steelcase has managed to keep the comfort of their users in check right from the get go, especially with the cushioning of the chair. Depending on personal preference, if you enjoy a thicker cushion, I suggest you opt for Steelcase Leap v1. Still, if you prefer thinner cushions, the Steelcase Leap v2 is a better option.

Base Shape and Construction

For an office chair, keeping a check on the base shape is essential. It is what determines the stability of the chair. The Steelcase Leap v1 has a more rounded base shape and design that prioritizes comfort and durability.

The v2, on the other hand, has a sleeker, thinner, and lightweight design with a more base height that gives the chair a more modern look and feel.

Coming round to the construction, the v1 has a sturdy and robust steel construction, unlike the plastic construction in the v2. 

The Steelcase Leap v2 is made with a heavy-duty nylon plastic that ensures enhanced durability with a modern design. Both the office chairs support up to 400 pounds of weight capacity, which is pretty impressive.

If you don’t want to compromise on the quality of the construction and the design with rough and all-day use, I suggest you pick Steelcase Leap v1 instead of Leap v2.

Steelcase Leap v1 vs. v2 – Similarities and Differences

Now that I have walked you through the different features of both the office chairs, it is time to take a walk through the similarities and the differences in both these chairs.

Similarities

Ergonomic Design

The first thing that you get with the Steelcase chairs is ergonomic shape and comfort in both of them. It comes with adjustable seat depth and armrest that allows the users to have a comfortable seating experience throughout the day.

The seamless movement is also another positive factor in both the ergonomic chairs. The lumbar support is another high point that you get to see in both these chairs.

Health Priority

Back pain and stiffness are two of the common complaints that office goers have. Since both the Steelcase Leap v1 and v2 come with the LiveBack design, it helps the chair mold itself according to the users’ posture. 

So, if you spend a lot of time working at your desk, this is likely the best option in the market. It tracks the shape of the spine and back and the user’s posture to mold itself accordingly.

Adjustable design

Adjustable lumbar support is another similarity that you will likely see in both these office chairs. From the seat height to the full back support, both the chairs are high on the adjustability. The chairs are also designed with several functions that allow you to adjust it according to your needs and usage. 

Seat design

The cushion thickness of these two chairs might not be similar, but they don’t compromise comfort. The seating area is exceptionally comfortable and wide, allowing users to support their lower back without any issues. Even the shape of the seat is ergonomically designed to accommodate every user.

Differences

Back Design

The first starking difference that the users witnessed in the Steelcase Leap v2 compared to v1 was the back design. The v2 has an elongated back that provides full support to the back and spine. It also has a more curved design than the v1. It is perfect for taller users who want to stretch and support their back now and then.

Armrests

Aside from the construction material, the armrests underwent a lot more modifications with the second version. The adjustability and the functions with the armrests are a lot more in v2 as compared to v1. The second version also allows you to move the armrests back and forth and not just up and down, which is fantastic.

Price Point

A difference in price point is justifiable. But, shockingly, the Steelcase Leap v1 costs more than the second version. It is likely because the first version is made out of steel and has a more durable design than the second one.

Warranty Period

Another difference in both these office chairs is with the warranty period. The Leap v1 comes with a limited period lifetime warranty, which justifies the higher price that you pay for the product. The Steelcase Leap v2, on the other hand, is backed by a 1-year warranty only.

Conclusion

Choosing one out of the Steelcase Leap v1 and Leap v2 is a struggle. Given how durable and ergonomically designed both these chairs are, you will never have to compromise on comfort and adjustability. 

Both the chairs prioritize certain aspects of the user’s needs. So, if you are tall and need a more extended backrest, you can opt for v1, but if you want a thicker cushion design, you can opt for v2.

If you are okay with spending a little more, I would suggest opting for the Steelcase Leap v1 instead of the second version because of the design, comfort, and construction.