Many readers have asked about the differences between the Steelcase Leap variants—specifically Leap V1 vs Leap V2, and Leap V2 vs Leap V2 Plus. This article provides a quick, practical breakdown of how the models differ, focusing on design, adjustability, sizing, and who each version is best suited for.
Leap V1 vs Leap V2
Steelcase released the Leap chair in 1999, just as internet-based work (and the musculoskeletal stress that comes with prolonged sitting) was becoming ubiquitous in offices.
It followed Herman Miller’s Aeron (introduced in 1994), which had already captured the high-end office chair market.
In 2006 (seven years after the original), Steelcase released the Leap V2. It refined the original design with updated aesthetics and more consistent adjustment features. Summary of differences:
| Feature | Steelcase Leap V1 | Steelcase Leap V2 |
| Armrests | 3D arms (height, width, pivot); thicker, rounder arm pads | 4D arms (height, width, pivot, depth); flatter pads with sharper edges |
| Release date | 1999 | 2006 |
| Backrest Cushion | Thicker cushion with a rounded profile | Leaner cushion that better conforms to the spine |
| Seat Depth Adjustment | Available on some builds | Standard feature; 3″ adjustment range |
| Seat Cushion | Thicker, with a rounded, downward-sloping front edge | Flatter, slimmer profile with a straighter, more squared front edge |
| Base Construction | Steel base encased in plastic; heavier feel | Lighter plastic base (aluminum optional) |
| Height-adjustable Lumbar Support | Optional | Optional; included by default (can be de-selected) |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs | 400 lbs |
| Overall Feel | More padded, utilitarian, “tank-like” | More refined, lighter, modern |
| Price | Available from second-hand retailers from $200 | Available on Amazon for $1,350.96 |
Key Leap V1 vs V2 differences
Functionally, both chairs share the same core ergonomic philosophy: a flexible backrest that supports natural spinal movement, synchronized recline, adjustable seat depth , and adjustable armrests.
The differences between V1 and V2 are primarily related to refinement, consistency, and overall feel rather than new mechanisms.
The Leap V2 introduced a slimmer, more modern design with a leaner backrest and seat cushion profile. The V2 feel more streamlined, while the V1 has thicker cushioning and a heavier, more “tank-like” build.
Steelcase Leap V2 vs Leap V2 Plus
While there’s no official release date, the Steelcase Plus first started appearing in Steelcase cataologues in around 2015. It’s an expansion of the standard Leap V2, not as a functional upgrade.
Mechanically and ergonomically, the two chairs are the same. The difference lies entirely in scale:
| Dimension | Steelcase Leap V2 (Standard) | Steelcase Leap V2 Plus (XL) |
| Seat Width × Depth | 19.25″ (W) × 15.75″–18.75″ (D) | Approx. 22″+ (W) × deeper adjustable range |
| Backrest Width × Height | Approx. 18″ (W) × 25″ (H) | Wider and taller than standard V2 (scaled-up backrest) |
| Seat Height | 16″–20.5″ | 16″–20.5″ (same adjustment range) |
| Armrest Height Range | 7″–11″ from seat | 7″–11″ from seat (same adjustment) |
| Armrest Width Adjustment | Adjustable (approx. 4.5″ total range) | Adjustable; wider overall spacing to match larger seat |
| User Height Range | Approx. 5’4″–6’2″ | Better suited for taller and larger users |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 400 lbs | Up to 500 lbs |
| Price | Available on Amazon for $1,350.96 | Available on Amazon for $2,048.80 |
Quick differences: The Leap V2 Plus features a wider and deeper seat, a larger backrest, reinforced structural components, and a higher weight capacity of up to 500 pounds. It’s also significantly more expensive.
Leap vs Other Elite Ergonomic Chairs
The most well-known alternatives to the Steelcase Leap include the Herman Miller Aeron and Embody, the Steelcase Gesture, and the Haworth Fern.
See how the Leap compares with these models in this breakdown:
