Finding the best garden hose can be a trying and difficult process that tests your patience. Hoses can be used for a vast array of applications from washing your car to keeping your flowers aptly hydrated. Depending on your particular needs, you may need a specific type of hose.
The sheer number of garden hoses currently available on the market is staggering. They are created in a plethora of colors, sizes, and shapes. Some are safe for drinking from while others could potentially make you or a pet very sick.
Some hoses are best for light watering, and some are heavy-duty all-stars, fit for spraying mud off your truck in the winter. We tested the best garden hoses money can buy to create a review list and buyer’s guide to assist you in finding the perfect garden hose.
Selecting the Best Garden Hoses 2018
| Product | Dimensions | Weight | Brand | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water Right 400 Series Polyurethane Slim (Editor’s Choice) | 14.2 x 14.2 x 5.1 inches | 7.23 pounds | Water Right | Check Price |
| Camco 22902 TastePURE | 300 x 0.5 x 0.5 inches | 5 pounds | Camco | Check Price |
| Briggs and Stratton 8BS100 (Editor’s Choice) | 1,200 x 0.6 x 0.8 inches | 19.65 pounds | Briggs & Stratton | Check Price |
| Teknor Apex NeverKink | 15.8 x 6.5 x 15.8 inches | 16.7 pounds | Teknor Apex | Check Price |
| Gilmour Flexogen Super Duty | 14 x 14 x 8.2 inches | 14 pounds | Gilmour | Check Price |
| GrowGreen Expandable Garden Hose | 4 x 12 x 4 inches | 3 pounds | GrowGreen | Check Price |
| Tuff-Guard Perfect Garden Hose | 17 x 17 x 6 inches | 7.2 pounds | Tuff-Guard | Check Price |
| Flexzilla Garden Hose | 1 x 0.6 x 1 inches | 7.8 pounds | Flexzilla | Check Price |
| Dramm 17006 ColorStorm | 60 x 0.6 x 0.6 inches | 10 pounds | Dramm | Check Price |
| Scotts MaxFlex Heavy Duty Garden Hose | 14.5 x 14.5 x 4 inches | 6.65 pounds | Swan | Check Price |
1. Water Right 400 Series Polyurethane Slim : Best Option for Pet and Kid Friendly Yards
The Water Right 400 Polyurethane Slim hose is made in the United States.
It is available in four different colors including espresso, cranberry, eggplant, and olive green.
They are also created in a multitude of sizes including 25 feet, 50 feet, 75 feet, and 100 feet to accommodate any setup.
- Comes in a variety of colors and lengths
- Flexible in all weather conditions from snow to heat waves
- Kink-free, crack free, leak resistant
- Offers between 4 and 5 gallons of water per minute flow rate
- Available with brass or stainless-steel couplings
- Easy to hook up to your water spigot
- Slightly more expensive than other models, but this hose will work in any climate and is built to last
2. Camco 22902 TastePURE : Great Choice for Campers and RVs
The Camco TastePURE Garden Hose is reinforced to resist kinks and is BPA free.
The couplings are heavy-duty machined and plated in nickel to resist corrosion.
The outside of the hose has been coated in PVC to increase its durability and lifespan.
- NSF certified drinking water safe hose
- Self-regulating heater to warm water
- Can connect to a water source at either end
- Heavy-duty nickel-plated couplings
- 6-foot power code featuring LED light indicators
- 25 feet long with a ½ inch diameter
- Not as long as other models
- Expensive
3. Briggs and Stratton 8BS100 : Best Heavy-Duty Choice
The Briggs and Stratton Rubber Garden Hose is a heavy-duty option available in 100 feet, 75 feet, 50 feet, or 25 feet.
While heavier than some other options, it is kink resistant and crafted to handle hot water and cold temperatures with ease.
With nickel-plated brass male and female couplings, this garden hose can tackle any task.
- Offered in 25, 50, 75, or 100 feet
- 5/8 inch diameter
- Made from rubber and features a crush and kink resistant design
- Great for colder climates and tough jobs
- This model is somewhat heavy, especially in longer lengths
4. Teknor Apex NeverKink : Budget Option
The Teknor Apex NeverKink is offered in several lengths and diameters including ¾ inch or 5/8 inch diameters and lengths of 50 feet, 75 feet, or 100 feet.
This garden hose is created with reinforced mesh layers to guard against damage.
The couplings can withstand 1,400 pounds of pressure and are crafted from aluminum.
- Reinforced with mesh
- Available in a variety of diameters and lengths
- Aluminum crush resistant couplings
- Inexpensive
- Tends to kink rather easily
5. Gilmour Flexogen Super Duty : Best Choice for Use in Freezing Temperatures
The Gilmour Flexogen Super Duty is offered in 5/8 inch diameter and lengths of 25 feet, 50 feet, 75 feet, or 100 feet.
He couplings are created from crush resistant and corrosion resistant brass.
This garden hose is well suited for use in freezing temperatures since it will not freeze or stop water flow.
- Durable and heavy-duty choice
- Burst strength of up to 500 psi
- Designed with an eight-ply reinforced polyester cord
- Great for tough jobs
- Some of our testers noticed some leaking around the couplings
6. GrowGreen Expandable Garden Hose : Best Expandable Garden Hose
The GrowGreen Expandable Garden Hose expands to its full length meaning you will not lose any inches.
The hose is resistant to kinking, tangling, or splitting.
It is extremely easy to store when not in use thanks to its super flexible design.
- Comes with a spray nozzle with eight different spray patterns to save you money
- Expands to nearly full length
- Resists kinks, tangles, splits, and cracks
- Easy to use and store
- Not drinking water safe
7. Tuff-Guard Perfect Garden Hose : Great Lightweight Choice
The Tuff-Guard Perfect Garden Hose is available in lengths of 25 feet, 50 feet, or 100 feet.
You can purchase the Tuff-Guard in blue, beige, green, red, grey, or pink. The hose’s unique polypropylene double helix coil design adds to the overall stability while keeping it flexible.
It has a burst strength of 300 psi making it awesome for tough gardening tasks.
- Lighter weight option f=with a double helix core coil that wraps around the hose for added strength and durability
- Brass couplings
- 300 burst psi
- Easy to use and store
- May tend to leak with heavy use
8. Flexzilla Garden Hose : Best Over All Garden Hose for Jobs Big or Small
The Flexzilla is offered in a multitude of sizing options from three feet to 100 feet in a 5/8 inch diameter.
This garden hose features a SwivelGrip bend restrictor with a rotator.
Our garden testing team was unable to get the Flexzilla to kink under pressure, making it one of the most durable and flexible hoses we tested.
- Flexible even in low temperatures
- Easy to turn aluminum couplers
- Doesn’t kink
- Great water pressure
- Somewhat prone to growing mold if not properly stored after using
9. Dramm 17006 ColorStorm : Most Colorful Option
Dramm 17006 ColorStorm lives up to its name by the being available in a variety of fun colors.
You can select to purchase it in red, green, yellow, blue, green, orange, or berry.
The hose is made in a 5/8 inch diameter and is 50 feet long.
- Available in seven different colors
- Diameter of 5/8 inch and fifty feet long
- Moderately priced
- Easy to use and store
- Will break down if left in the sun
10. Scotts MaxFlex Heavy Duty Garden Hose : Inexpensive, Light-Duty Choice
The Scotts MaxFlex Garden Hose is available in 50 or 100 feet.
It is reinforced with nylon and crafted from polymer.
It is up to thirty percent lighter than many of the other hoses available on the market. This hose has a burst strength of 500 psi.
- Lightweight
- Available in 50 or 100 foot lengths
- Easy to carry and store
- Works well for lighter duty gardening tasks
- This hose may be predisposed to wearing out with extremely heavy use
Best Garden Hoses – Buyer’s Guide
You can find garden hoses in a vast array of colors, styles, sizes, and special features. Some hoses are created to resist tangling, be extra durable, or may even be microbial to protect you from germs. You can also find eco-friendly features such as water-saving nozzles or ones that swap out easily.
Garden hoses are now created from many different and technologically advanced materials as well. As a result, deciding on the perfect garden hose may seem like an arduous chore. To expedite the process, we’ve created this handy guide to help you sort through the many different types of hoses to pick the one that is best suited to your needs.
Key Considerations When Shopping for a New Garden Hose
Let’s take a look at the important topics to think about when selecting a new hose.
Length
Longer is not always better. You should buy a hose that is the length you need. Garden hoses are typically available in 25, 50, 75, or 100 feet in length. While you might be tempted to purchase a longer hose than you need, you should try to avoid the temptation.
The longer your hose is, the heavier it becomes. This means it becomes more cumbersome to move and use. Longer hoses are also more expensive, and they need more storage space. A very long option can also be nearly impossible to drain before storing fully and can result in extremely low water pressure.
To find your perfect hose length, measure the distance between your water spigot to the furthest part of your yard or area where you will use the new hose. Choose a hose that is slightly longer than this measurement. By selecting one that is a bit longer, you can ensure it won’t become overstretched which may result in tears, snags, or leaks.
Hose Diameter
The diameter of the garden hose refers to the width. The most common hose diameters are ¾ inch, 5/8 inch, and ½ inch. The measurements are based on the inside diameter rather than the outside of the hose. A garden hose with a larger diameter will allow for more water to be expelled at a faster rate.
For most garden hose uses, a width of 5/8 inch is usually the most useful. This size will allow for a great combination of water pressure and flow. This size also keeps the hose from becoming too heavy with longer use.
If you require a lighter hose, then you should look for a hose with an interior width of a half inch will allow you to complete your watering tasks without a lot of extra weight. A half inch hose that is 25 to 50 feet long will be well suited for individuals that need to complete lighter duty gardening. However, they will not work as well for people that want to wash their vehicles or run a sprinkler.
Material Matters
As technology advances, so do the materials that garden hoses are crafted from. They are available in a large range of materials and colors. Generally, they are crafted from vinyl, rubber, or a blend of the two.
Vinyl
Vinyl hoses are less expensive. They are also more lightweight. On the downside, vinyl tends to be less sturdy, so they may also be more likely to kink, tangle, crack, or split when compared to other materials.
Vinyl garden hoses can also degrade at a faster rate than other materials if they are left out in the sun or are exposed to inclement weather conditions. If you are on a tight budget and just looking for a hose to assist you with light gardening tasks, a vinyl hose should work fine. Be sure to drain and store it to extend its life properly.
Rubber
Rubber garden hoses are the most durable, strongest, and therefore longest lasting hoses available. They resist cracking, and they are less likely to tangle or kink. They can also carry hot water.
They are also resistant to ozone deterioration, which means they won’t fall apart of left out in the sun. They are also the most expensive and can be quite heavy to lug around. If you are after a heavy-duty hose that will last through lots of season’s of use, rubber is likely your top choice.
A Combination of Rubber and Vinyl
A third solution lies in the combining of these two materials. Reinforced hoses are mot often crafted from a mesh lining sandwiched between layers of vinyl and rubber. These garden hoses are more resistant to kinking, splitting, cracking, and deterioration than just vinyl on its own.
They are also able to withstand higher water pressures. Regardless of the material, you decide on, if your pets or kids may take an occasional drink from the hose, take care to find a “drinking water safe” marked hose to avoid any dangerous chemicals being ingested.
Strength
Choosing a strong hose that is built to last through many uses is not only helpful for keeping your wallet happy, but it will save you from stressing out as well. Consider the hose’s “burst Pressure” rating carefully. Burst pressure is a measurement describing the amount of water pressure it would take for the hose to burst. If you are looking for a hose to use with a sprinkler, you’ll need a burst pressure that is above 350 psi. If you are using a specialty garden hose nozzle, be sure to check the manufacturer’s notes on the necessary burst pressure to operate the hose properly.
Flexibility
You will need to purchase a hose that is flexible enough to bend and move easily during use. While rolling up easily for safe storage. However, a hose that is too flexible can lead to kinking. Kinking leads to cracking and splitting, therefore shortening the life of your hose drastically. Typically, rubber or mesh liner reinforced hoses are less likely to kink than vinyl. To test the hose bend it into a U. If the hose kinks, pass on it and try a different model.
Couplings
A coupling is the end piece of your hose that attaches to a water spigot, sprinkler, or nozzle. Cheaper hoses usually have plastic couplings. Plastic versions are more prone to leaking, cracking, and breaking. They are also difficult to properly tighten. The lifespan for a plastic coupling is much shorter than other materials.
A metal coupling is most often crafted from brass. They may also be chrome plated. Brass is thicker and typically has an octagon shape which allows it to be adjusted using a wrench. Brass couplings are leak-resistant and have a much longer life than other versions. Conversely, a brass coupling may be difficult to turn for individuals with arthritis or smaller hands.
Thinly metal plated couplings break more easily. They can also be more difficult to tighten at the water spigot. They tend to break down and wear out faster as well.
Types of Garden Hoses
There are a few different types of hoses that are tailored to suit any needs you may have. Here’s a closer peek at the types of garden hoses you can choose from, and the special attributes they have.
Light Duty Garden Hoses
Light duty garden hoses are lighter weight. They are typically composed of vinyl but may have reinforcing mesh or multiple layers to increase their strength and durability. This option typically comes with plastic couplings and are thinner in diameter to cut down on weight.
If you are on a strict budget or do not plan to use your garden hose too often or for substantial jobs, a lightweight hose can be a great solution. They are usually created to be under 50 feet in length. They won’t be able to accommodate some specialty nozzles, sprinklers, or higher water pressure, but for a home gardener looking to hydrate the hydrangeas, it will work beautifully.
Regular and Heavy-Duty Garden Hoses
In this category, you will find your everyday garden hoses and those that are built tougher to last through heavier use. Most hoses that are heavy-duty are composed of rubber and have brass couplings. While these hoses can be used in nearly any hydration situation, they are heavier and can get annoying to lug around on longer tasks.
Flat Hoses
A flat garden hose is similar to the hoses that are used by fire departments. When they are in use and filled with water, they are round. Then they flatten out when not in use. They take up less storage space than other hoses but can be difficult to store without a hose reel.
Flat hoses are usually made from vinyl to ensure they are flexible. As a result, they are not as strong or durable as other versions. If space is an issue and you need a hose that folds up, then a flat hose may be a welcome addition to your tool shed.
Soaker Hoses
Soaker hoses offer an easy way to irrigate your garden. Most often crafted from recycled rubber and plastics, these garden hoses have porous walls. When the water is on and flowing through the hose, it leaks out of thousands of teeny, tiny holes. This process allows the water to gently seep into the soil to ensure your garden is adequately hydrated.
A soaker garden hose can be laid directly on the soil or buried below the surface up to six inches. You can also cover them with a layer of mulch. They work wonders for vegetable gardens and are great for hotter, dryer climates.
Coiled Hoses
Coiled garden hoses are bundled into a tight spiral formation. The spiral pulls tightly together when stored and then stretches out almost straight when in use and carrying water. They are typically available in shorter lengths of 15 feet to 25 feet, but some companies make longer versions.
A 25-foot coiled garden hose will stretch out to approximately 15 to 20 feet. This is important to keep in mind when selecting a length. When storing a coiled hose, you won’t be able to use a hose reel. They can become tangled up easily, so you will also want to purchase a special stand up hanger.
Expandable Hoses
An expandable garden hose looks similar to a hair scrunchie. They expand up to three times their length when in use. They are lightweight and are often available in a wide range of fun colors. The downside is that with use they eventually lose their ability to fully contract to their originally pre-water size, leaving you with a hose that is difficult to store. If you need a light hose for smaller watering tasks, they can be wonderful. But for big jobs, they are not heavy duty enough and may be prone to splitting.
We hope you enjoyed our reviews of our favorite garden hoses. Keeping your typical gardening tasks in mind, as well as the climate in your area will help you to select the best garden hose for your needs. Don’t forget to leave us a comment below with your number one garden hose and any thoughts or questions.
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Charlie N. says
I’m happy to find this page because a garden hose is the last thing I need to buy to complete my preparations for a new season. Hope, I’ll find something suitable here because the information is well-written and located.
Monika says
I don’t have such big garden for buying something expensive and suitable for heavy tasks, I just wanted to find something for usual watering. My choice was Scotts MaxFlex Heavy Duty Garden Hose and I can’t complain about the way it works. My only hope is that it will be durable and I won’t be disappointed one more time that I preferred something cheap to the expensive variant.
Stuart says
So what can you say when time went by? Is this hose still working good? As I know, many of them break in a half of a year. What about yours?
Anthony says
And what can you say about its durability? I’ve made an order and wait until this hose will be delivered.
April says
I’m tired of buying things that broke very fast. I’ve bought a hose not long ago and last week it started leaking between the crimping and the coupling. I’m absolutely sure that all hoses of this brand do the same so I’m searching for a new hose once again. I won’t tell the brand because it doesn’t deserve even being mentioned in comments.
Lucas says
Before I bought The Dramm 17006 ColorStorm all my hoses were typical ugly rubber hoses that rub off my hands, but this one is perfect! No jokes. Just look at this one – bright color, light weight, flexibility, corrosion resistance and more and more other features. So why don’t you pay some dollars more and buy a good-looking hose, which also is very functional?
Antonio says
I couldn’t think that choosing a simple garden hose can be so difficult! So many types and materials.. I need to take a day off just to think everything over before purchasing because now all information is mixed in my head.
Logan says
How many reviews and articles I have read about The Flexzilla! Everybody likes it so I decided to try this hose too. So, what can I say? It’s really one of the best pond equipment I’ve ever had. Flexibility, durability – I like it for these things. Recommend to everyone really.
Lana says
And my experience isn’t such pleasant. My hose has broken after a few weeks of work. Maybe it just was the only case but I’m a little bit disappointed.
Jane says
How many ads lie to us. I’ve bought a garden hose relying on the advertising and consultant’s opinion and finally understood that I’ve bought a cheap hose of low quality and I need to find something else. How much time I spent uselessly!
Linda says
I was sure The Water Right 400 Series Polyurethane Slim would be in this guide. For me it’s the best garden hose almost for a year, I advise it to all my friends and relatives. It’s not only “editor’s choice” but the best option for everyone.
Kareem says
Agree with you! I’ve been using it for much time and happy to recommend this one to all friends and relatives.
Nancy says
Unfortunately, I haven’t found the best garden hose. So many websites, recommendations from friends but the ideal one is somewhere far from me. I don’t know whether I’ll find it but hope I won’t be disappointed again.
Fiona says
My garden hose has broken down very fast, I really hate this brand because it’s the second thing from them which is broken. Maybe your guide will help me to make a right choice.
Keira says
My friend gave me The Scotts MaxFlex Garden Hose because I didn’t have mine and I decided I should have bought the same garden hose! I like its weight and length and the way it works.
Ben says
I haven’t found the best garden hose and it seems like I will never do it. All of them have disadvantages which don’t allow me to buy them. DOn’t know what to do really.
Billi says
I thought it wouldn’t be hard to find a garden hose but how much I was mistaken. Finally, I’ve found The Camco TastePURE Garden Hose and like everything about its characteristics. I’ve presented my parents the same one and they’re happy to use it too.
Odell says
The best garden hose I’ve ever had was presented to me by grandma and I tried to find something at least the same but I couldn’t. Maybe I should read your guide one more time.
Gaven says
The best garden hose in my life is Tuff-Guard Perfect. I personally recommend it to everyone who can’t find the ideal one. It’s a hose that changes all the gardening process.
Kendra says
I’m so happy I’ve received a fantastic hose two days ago. I’m here to compare it with other variants and I see that mine is really the best one. If it works good, I’ll probably tell the brand.
Evan says
If you ask me which garden hose to buy I’d probably recommend The Water Right 400 Polyurethane Slim hose. It seems impossible to broke it somehow or not to find a suitable color. Just look at the variety of them and make sure I don’t lie.
Nelly says
When you look at garden horses for the first time, it seems like there’s nothing easier when to choose one. But the truth is that I’ve spent several days until found some variants. And now I don’t know which of them to order.
Lona says
I don’t know why but I want to buy Flexzilla Garden Hose. Of course, I’ve read some reviews and comments but I don’t believe them. Can anyone tell me is it good or not?
Raphael says
I know that many people aren’t satisfied with this product. It may break in a year of usage. My case wasn’t better as it broke after a few months of operating. Don’t buy this junk.
Zane says
My favorite water hose is Tuff-Guard Perfect Garden Hose. I like how it works, for my garden, it’s the best option. I didn’t see a comment about it and don’t understand why. So read more about it, if you didn’t notice this product before.