It LOOKS softer than it is in real life, but with that said, its actually very comfy and the lumbar pad is removable, which i removed. I wish that pad was like half its thickness. But without it, its pretty nice. I like leaning back and putting pressure on my lower back to relieve the stress. It reclines pretty far back too which is a plus. The arm rests are adjustable, which is cool. Im just not really sure what the other lever does, as i cant seem to find a difference when i "lock" and "unlock" the tilting. But all in all, im satisfied and its sturdy and well made. Should last quite some time!