The stock seats are terrible *long* also a TLDR

[Vermilion]

Probably going to eventually end up changing the seats out. Probably go with Corbeau Sports or GTS II. Not sure which one would be better. The GTS seem to have much bigger leg bolsters but could potentially be a pain in the ass to get into and put of. Wish I could sit in both before buying.

 

[Saker]

I had a similar issue until I found the adjustment sweet spot.
My lower back would hurt and couldn't figure it out, until I lowered the rear of the seat all the way down and pulsed the front up 3 quick pulse until it made contact with the back side of my legs. That's what worked for me.

I have driven multiple times from Louisiana to Miami and not had any issues with my back since finding the right adjustment!

Hope you find it before spending $$$$

 

[TRDSchin]

The seats are way more comfier than the Subaru Forester I had. But it also isn’t close to when my gf had an IS200t F Sport. All about perspective I guess

 

[Hadelson]

I thought I’d be fine with the 4Runner, having come from an Audi S3. I was figuring I could just chill and be comfortable. What I wouldn’t give to have those Audi seats in my 4runner. They hugged fairly tight but the biggest thing that helped was an adjustable thigh support.

So far my biggest issue is there is no thigh support or leg support/bolster for that matter. Overall the seat is pretty terrible.

I’ve tried every seating configuration and always end up with pain/cramp in my right hamstring, knee, calf and foot. I’ve tried seating way back and having my leg as straight as I can and still reach the steering wheel, I’ve tried lowering the seat all the way and then raising the front and position my foot over the pedals, I’ve tried numerous other positions as well.

I even just received two different seat cushions, a wedge type and a U shaped one. Problem with these is they don’t address the thigh/leg support and they also raise you up 2-3” and then your back and neck and head rest are even more out of whack.

I’ve got a couple options left I guess. I could try some Wet Okole seat covers for extra padding as the stock seats are quite firm, wouldn’t really address the thigh problem though.

I could try to find an upholstery shop to add some foam on the bolsters or if I’m lucky add some foam to the from to extend the thigh support.

The last option I have is buy an aftermarket seat bracket I found and buy a “racing” inspired seat with leg and thigh support. I’d actually rather do this first because I know it will fix my problem but some decent seats that would “fit” in terms of looks and ergonomics is gonna be probably $1500 plus. I’d lose the airbag in the seat which I don’t really care about and powered controls which aren’t a deal breaker either.

I love my new 4runner and have already put a couple thousand worth of mods into it. A used but great condition Gobi Stealth with ladder, XenonDepot HID headlights, LED high/DRL, replaced all interior bulbs with LEDs. Daystar 2.5/1.5 leveling kit and Spidertrax spacers.

I plan/planned on keeping this rig until it takes its last dying breath but, I seriously doubt that will happen if I can’t get comfortable when driving it for a couple minutes or hours.

From searching the forum and google I can tell there are others who share this problem so it’s not just me or maybe sciatica although it could be both.

Anyone have any thoughts?

TLDR: Can’t get comfortable in seat no matter the position.

I feel your pain. It's been an issue for me as well, but ordered an ortho pad that gave me the support needed. My issue was the impact and rebuild job from the Docs...…..Still cramps at times and just get out and stretch and good to go.

 

[GhostChili]

Here I am just the opposite. My 2013 Sierra pressed up against the back of my calves that even an hour commute to work was hell. Just did an all-day-drive over Mt Hood and back and could not be more happier with the comfort.

 

[rsimi72]

The seats are way more comfier than the Subaru Forester I had. But it also isn’t close to when my gf had an IS200t F Sport. All about perspective I guess

Totally! The Forester seats are brutal. Unless you’re under 5-2. The seats in my 2015 VW GTI were/are amazing. I find the 4Runner seats acceptable (especially compared with our Forester) but the Softex heats up a bit in the summer. But I live in Seattle so it’s a short season.

 

[Duuuuuuuude]

SR5 with leather seats here. Anything longer than a 2 hour drive and my legs/ass falls asleep. The seat bottoms feel very stiff. Has anyone gone to an upholsterer and had them modified?

 

[Charlievee]

I find the seats in my ORP to be very comfortable. Did multiple trips from Kansas to Mississippi, like a 15 hour straight shot with no issue. While the seats may not be good for the op, they are good seats. To many individual variables to claim they are poor quality. Not to be a prick, but ones individual health and fitness level will play a major part in the equation.

 

[Duuuuuuuude]

I find the seats in my ORP to be very comfortable. Did multiple trips from Kansas to Mississippi, like a 15 hour straight shot with no issue. While the seats may not be good for the op, they are good seats. To many individual variables to claim they are poor quality. Not to be a prick, but ones individual health and fitness level will play a major part in the equation.

I do a few trips to KS every year to see family. It's 6 hours one way, and I can't say I'm looking forward to doing it the the 4Runner.

Yes, they are good seats quality wise. It's the design that sucks.

If you're inferring that they aren't made for big 'murican asses, well, you're probably correct. However, at 5'11" & 185lbs, I personally don't feel that I'm stretching the design limits of seat design.

Compared to my previous Japanese vehicles seats, this one feels like a thinly padded church pew.