Herman Miller Embody Ergonomic Office Chair vs Steelcase Leap V2 Office Chair
What owners say · Updated October 2026
Owners choosing between the Embody and the Leap V2 weigh contrasting seat cushion experiences and break-in periods. The Embody can involve an extended and sometimes painful break-in period alongside reported seat degradation, while the Leap V2 features a very thin and firm seat cushion that frequently causes tailbone or hamstring pain.

Herman Miller
Herman Miller Embody Ergonomic Office Chair
“The Herman Miller Embody delivers exceptional core durability and ergonomic support for long hours, but many owners report significant seat comfort degradation and other quality issues over time.”
Choose it if you need a chair that accommodates various sitting positions including sitting cross-legged.

Steelcase
Steelcase Leap V2 Office Chair
“The Steelcase Leap V2 is a durable, highly adjustable ergonomic chair that excels at encouraging proper posture but has a polarizing firm seat and aggressive lumbar support.”
Choose it if you want a workstation chair that promotes proper upright posture and firm lumbar pressure.
Where owners report a difference
| Herman Miller Embody Ergonomic Office Chair | Steelcase Leap V2 Office Chair | |
|---|---|---|
| Seat comfort | Owners report a significant decrease in seat comfort over time and note an extended break-in period. | Owners report a very thin and firm seat cushion that causes tailbone or hamstring pain for a significant number of people. |
| Headrest | Owners report an absence of a built-in headrest that requires reliance on aftermarket solutions. | Owners describe the headrest as an uncomfortable afterthought that pushes the head forward or slips out of place. |