Cassie Moorhead
Writer at - SafeFinsHi, I`m Cassie Moorhead, As a storyteller, I enjoy creating engaging content for brands, adapting my voice for varying audiences. By combining creativity with marketing...
Cassie Moorhead
Writer at - SafeFinsHi, I`m Cassie Moorhead, As a storyteller, I enjoy creating engaging content for brands, adapting my voice for varying audiences. By combining creativity with marketing...
Last Updated on December 12, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead
Choosing between the Haworth Fern vs Steelcase Leap can feel tough, so I want to make it simple. Both chairs feel good, yet they support the body in very different ways. I’ve used each for long work days, and I learned what feels great and what wears on the back over time. I’ll share the truth in a clear, kind way so you can pick the chair that fits your day.
Haworth Fern Review
The Haworth Fern feels soft and alive when you sit. It moves with you and aims to hold your back in a natural curve. I used it for editing and long calls. It gave steady support but also had a few fit quirks for me.
What I Like
- Wave Suspension System: The back hugs the spine as you move. It feels smooth and springy.
- Three-part back design: The sections bend where your back needs motion. It keeps my shoulders free.
- Breathable mesh finish: The knit lets air flow. It stayed cool on warm days.
What Could Be Better
- Seat depth for larger users: The seat can feel short if you are tall. It made me perch forward at times.
- Firm lumbar feel: The built-in lumbar can feel low and pushy on some bodies. I wished for finer height range.
- Price vs. feel: The cost is high. The fit must be right to feel worth it.
Haworth Fern Overview
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product | Haworth Fern office chair |
| Key tech | Wave suspension system; three-part back |
| Arms | 4D adjustable arms (configurable) |
| Mesh | Breathable digital knit mesh |
| Capacity | Up to 325 lb |
| Base | Plastic swivel base with soft casters |
| Best for | Users who like a springy, dynamic back |
| Warranty | Check Haworth US terms for warranty |
Is Haworth Fern Good
Yes, if you want a lively, responsive chair. I sat in it for editing and calls. It kept me upright and moving. The back system is the star. If you need deep, custom lumbar shifts, test it first.
Summary: The Fern is great for active sitters who value motion and breathability.
Recommendation
Pick the Haworth Fern if you shift posture often. It is great for dynamic work and shared spaces. If you are tall or need precise lumbar height, try it in person or pair it with a small lumbar pad. For US buyers, check Haworth’s local dealers for try-before-you-buy and warranty service.
To Buy This Product, Click Here.
Steelcase Leap Review
The Steelcase Leap is built for full-time work and long sits. It adapts to your spine with its LiveBack tech. I used it across long editing days. It felt steady and forgiving in many postures.
What I Like
- 3D LiveBack technology: The back changes shape as you move. It keeps the spine in a good curve.
- Natural Glide System: The seat and back move together. You can recline without losing support.
- Seven points of adjustability: You can tune lumbar firmness and seat depth well. It fit me with simple tweaks.
What Could Be Better
- Firm seat for some: The seat can feel firm at first. A softer cushion option would help some users.
- Aesthetics vs mesh: It leans more classic than sleek knit mesh. Some buyers want a more modern look.
- Price: It is a premium chair. Compare refurbished options for value.
Steelcase Leap Overview
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product | Steelcase Leap office chair |
| Key tech | 3D LiveBack; Natural Glide System |
| Arms | 4D adjustable arms |
| Adjustments | Seven points incl. lumbar firmness dial |
| Upholstery | Textile / polyester blends; many colors |
| Capacity | Standard high durability |
| Base | Sturdy base with casters |
| Best for | Full-time office use and varied postures |
| Warranty | Check Steelcase US warranty and service |
Summary: The Leap is a durable, highly adjustable chair that suits long workdays and many body types.
Is Steelcase Leap Good
Yes. It is one of the most reliable chairs I tried. It fits a wide range of users. The LiveBack and glide system felt natural. For long hours, it was very kind to my back.
Summary: The Leap is a safe pick for long-term comfort and adjustability.
Recommendation
Choose the Steelcase Leap if you sit most of the day and want a chair that adapts. It works well for varied postures and taller users. For budget care, look at certified refurb options in the US. If you want a very soft seat or a modern knit look, test cushions or fabric swatches first.
To Buy This Product, Click Here.
Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap Details Comparison
I used both chairs for real work days. I’ll share clear, honest notes so you can pick the right one.
Adjustment & Movement — Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
| Feature | Haworth Fern | Steelcase Leap |
|---|---|---|
| Seat depth | Some models slide forward | Adjustable seat depth |
| Recline style | Wave, springy motion | Natural Glide, synced motion |
| Arm adjust | 4D options | 4D options |
What I experienced: Fern felt lively when I shifted. Leap felt steady when I leaned back.
Ratings: Haworth Fern 8/10 — lively adjust. Steelcase Leap 9/10 — smooth, reliable.
Back Support — Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
| Feature | Haworth Fern | Steelcase Leap |
|---|---|---|
| Back tech | Wave suspension; 3-part back | 3D LiveBack technology |
| Lumbar | Built-in, firm | Tunable lumbar dial |
| Best for | Dynamic motion | Long, varied postures |
What I experienced: Fern kept my spine moving but felt low on precise lumbar. Leap matched my lower back better after tweaks.
Ratings: Haworth Fern 8/10 — dynamic support. Steelcase Leap 9.5/10 — best for steady lumbar support.
Seat Comfort — Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
| Feature | Haworth Fern | Steelcase Leap |
|---|---|---|
| Cushion feel | Firmer, shorter seat pan | Firmer but deeper seat |
| Long-sit comfort | Good if you move | Very good for long hours |
| Perch mode | Built-in perch option | No dedicated perch |
What I experienced: Fern made me perch sometimes. Leap let me sit back for hours without pain.
Ratings: Haworth Fern 7.5/10 — may feel shallow for some. Steelcase Leap 9/10 — strong long-sit comfort.
Build & Materials — Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
| Feature | Haworth Fern | Steelcase Leap |
|---|---|---|
| Mesh | Digital knit mesh | Textile / polyester blends |
| Base | Plastic base with soft casters | Sturdy metal base option |
| Weight cap | 325 lb | High durability (varies) |
What I experienced: Fern felt light and airy. Leap felt solid and durable.
Ratings: Haworth Fern 8/10 — breathable, modern. Steelcase Leap 9/10 — robust, built to last.
Performance: Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
| Area | Haworth Fern | Steelcase Leap |
|---|---|---|
| Daily use | Best if you move a lot | Best for full-day use |
| Flexibility | High | High, but steadier |
| Noise/creak | Quiet | Quiet |
What I experienced: For editing or quick shifts I liked Fern. For 8+ hour work days I reached for Leap.
Ratings: Haworth Fern 8/10. Steelcase Leap 9.5/10.
Ease of Use: Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
| Feature | Haworth Fern | Steelcase Leap |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Fairly simple | Simple |
| Daily adjust | Many subtle moves | Intuitive dials and levers |
| Learning curve | Moderate | Low |
What I experienced: Fern took a bit to feel right. Leap felt right faster with small dials.
Ratings: Haworth Fern 8/10. Steelcase Leap 9/10.
Value for Money: Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
| Consideration | Haworth Fern | Steelcase Leap |
|---|---|---|
| New price | Premium | Premium |
| Refurb options | Available | Widely available refurbished |
| Long-term value | Good if fit is right | Very good for longevity |
Short comparison: Both cost a lot new. Leap often has better refurb deals in the US.
What I experienced: Fern felt worth it if you like its lively feel. Leap felt a safer long-term buy.
Ratings: Haworth Fern 7.5/10. Steelcase Leap 9/10.
Overall: Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
| Final fit | Haworth Fern | Steelcase Leap |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Active sitters who move a lot | Full-time sitters who want steady support |
| Try first? | Yes | Yes, but Leap fits many body types |
What I experienced: Fern is fun and modern. Leap gave me the best all-day comfort and fewer tweaks.
Ratings: Haworth Fern 8/10 overall. Steelcase Leap 9.5/10 overall.
FAQs for Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
Which chair is better for long hours in the Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap debate?
The Leap is great for long days. The Fern feels light but may fit best if you move a lot. Try both if you can to see which feel your back likes more.
Is the Haworth Fern more soft than the Steelcase Leap?
The Fern feels soft at first but stays firm. The Leap feels firm yet holds you well over time. Your body shape can change how each seat feels.
Does the Steelcase Leap have better lumbar support than the Haworth Fern?
Yes. The Leap has a tuned lumbar dial that sits in the right spot for most users. The Fern has support, but it may sit low for some.
Which chair fits more body sizes in the Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap match?
The Leap fits many shapes due to its wide seat depth and firm back. The Fern works best for light to mid builds who enjoy free motion.
Is the Haworth Fern worth the high price when compared to the Steelcase Leap?
It can be if you want a chair that moves with you. The Leap may feel like a better value due to comfort and strong build for long use.
Conclusion — Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap
The Haworth fern vs Steelcase leap choice comes down to how you sit each day. The Fern feels free and light, while the Leap feels firm and safe for long hours. I liked the Leap more for full work days, yet the Fern felt great when I moved a lot. Try both, trust your back, and pick the one that keeps you calm and pain free.
Hi, I`m Cassie Moorhead, As a storyteller, I enjoy creating engaging content for brands, adapting my voice for varying audiences. By combining creativity with marketing expertise and communication theory, I am empowered to craft fresh content that tells a brand’s story while enhancing campaigns and user experience.