When comparing Steelcase Leap vs Kneeling Chair, the Slant community recommends Steelcase Leap for most people. In the question“What are the best ergonomic computer chairs?” Steelcase Leap is ranked 3rd while Kneeling Chair is ranked 6th. The most important reason people chose Steelcase Leap is:
The Leap provides sufficient adjustability to fit all but the most extreme body shapes, and is tested to support 300 lbs. There is also a Leap Plus model which supports up to 500 lbs.
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Pros
Pro Adjustable to nearly any body type
The Leap provides sufficient adjustability to fit all but the most extreme body shapes, and is tested to support 300 lbs. There is also a Leap Plus model which supports up to 500 lbs.
Pro Can reduce lower back and neck pain
Kneeling chairs reduce low back or neck pain for some people.
Pro Varying leg positions can help restlessness when you need to keep sitting
You can use the chair with your shins on the shin pad, as intended, or use the shin pad as a foot rest for one or both feet. Being able to switch it up can be very helpful if you get restless sitting still very easily, but don't have the option to get up and move around.
Pro Good for forward-leaning tasks
Kneeling chairs make forward-reaching tasks easier.
Pro Encourages upright posture
Kneeling chairs position you with an open hip angle. This eases your hips forward to encourage an upright posture, aligning your back, shoulders and neck.
Cons
Con Very firm seat
To some, the seat of the Leap is too firm for sustained comfort.
Con Kneeling chairs can be tricky to get in and out of
They're not as intuitive as normal chairs.
Con Research on health benefits is mixed
While some studies have shown these style chairs to be good for maintaining posture, other studies have suggested they may be no better and possibly worse than a well-designed traditional chair. Prolonged usage of the shin pad with both knees (sitting as intended) may lead to decreased circulation to the lower legs.