The Good

• Great fit for shorter users: “I’m a short female so I have no issues with it and it’s my favorite office chair. I prefer it over the Aeron which my partner has.” (21 upvotes)
• Strong long-term satisfaction: “I’m 6’0 and have been using a Sayl for 5 years. Still love it.” (7 upvotes)
• Supportive back feel: “It really hugs my lower to mid back in a way no other chair had done. It’s very comfortable and soothing and cooling.” (8 upvotes)
• Better fit than other HM models for some: “Personally the Sayl fits my needs more than an Aeron or Embody — everyone is different.” (6 upvotes)
• Cooling + cushioned seat: “The seat pan is also cushiony which I prefer over the Aeron.” (8 upvotes)
  

The Not So Good

• Backrest too short for taller users: “Sayl’s generally better for average-shorter folks (5’8 and below)… the backrest doesn’t go too high.” (4 upvotes)
• Not ideal for larger body types: “If you’re on the larger size this won’t be a great match tho.” (4 upvotes)
• Recline tension feels stiff: “It’s pretty good, but I wish it would lean back a little easier.” (6 upvotes)
• Less premium feel: “It’s not a bad chair, but it’s not an Embody either 😅 … just less ‘premium.’” (4 upvotes)
• Limited adjustability: Compared to higher-end HM chairs, the Sayl offers fewer customization options.

Comparison to Aeron

• Sayl vs Aeron
  • “It’s like a mix between Aeron and Embody, just less ‘premium.’” (4 upvotes)
  • “I prefer it over the Aeron which my partner has.” (21 upvotes)
  • “The seat pan is also cushiony which I prefer over the Aeron.” (8 upvotes)

Tips and Tricks

• Adjust the recline: “There’s a knob on the right to release the tension.” (8 upvotes)
• Finding deals: “Herman Miller Discord is pretty good for finding deals.” (7 upvotes)
• Test before buying: “I really recommend trying out all the chairs to see what works best for you.” (21 upvotes)
• Office liquidations: “Local business went out of sale and was liquidating. I believe I got the last 3 of these.” (6 upvotes)
• University surplus: “If you have a local university, check what they do with their surplus equipment.” (6 upvotes)

The Verdict

The Herman Miller Sayl is a polarizing but well-liked option for many users, especially shorter individuals who prefer a cushioned seat and strong mid-back support. While it lacks the premium feel and adjustability of the Aeron or Embody, it’s frequently praised for comfort, cooling, and excellent value on the secondhand market.

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