Are you looking for a garden hose that is long-lasting and easy to maneuver? Lightweight garden hoses could be perfect for you, allowing you to water your garden with minimal effort.
The overall best lightweight garden hose is the Eley 5/8-Inch Polyurethane Garden Hose. I love how durable and kink-resistant it is, as well as its super light design and affordable price.
In this guide, I take a look at the best lightweight garden hoses on the market. I review each product in detail and make recommendations for how to choose the best option for your garden. Let’s begin!
Contents
- 1 In A Rush? Here Are Our Picks
- 2 The 7 Best Lightweight Garden Hoses
- 2.1 Eley 5/8-Inch Polyurethane Garden Hose – Best Overall
- 2.2 Flexzilla HFZG550YW Garden Lead-In Hose ⅝ Inches – Best for Extreme Conditions
- 2.3 Flexi Hose With 8 Function Nozzle – Best Flexible Option
- 2.4 Wonder Home Gardens Expandable Garden Hose – Best Expandable Garden Hose
- 2.5 Water Right PSH-050-MG-4PKRS 400 Series Hose – Best Drinking Water Safe Option
- 2.6 Zero-G 4001-50 Lightweight Garden Hose – Most Durable Option
- 2.7 Water Right PSH-2050-MG Hose 500 Series – Best Kink-Free Option
- 3 Buying Guide: How To Choose A Lightweight Garden Hose For Your Garden
- 3.1 What Is The Best Lightweight Garden Hose Material?
- 3.2 What Are The Best Lightweight Garden Hose Fittings?
- 3.3 How Will You Use Your Hose?
- 3.4 Do You Have Spatial Restrictions?
- 3.5 Do You Have Physical Restrictions?
- 3.6 Where Will You Store Your Lightweight Garden Hose?
- 3.7 What Is The Climate Like Where You Live?
- 3.8 What Are The Pros And Cons Of Lightweight Garden Hoses?
- 3.9 How To Make Your Lightweight Garden Hose Last
- 4 FAQs
- 5 A Complete Guide To The Best Lightweight Garden Hoses
In A Rush? Here Are Our Picks
Let’s take a quick glance at the products we will talk about here.
The 7 Best Lightweight Garden Hoses
Eley 5/8-Inch Polyurethane Garden Hose – Best Overall
- One of the most reinforced and durable designs.
- Flexible, no-kink material.
- Safe to use on all plants and for drinking water.
- One of the most affordable lightweight garden hoses.
The Eley model is the overall best lightweight garden hose. It is excellent value for money with an affordable price tag and various features that make it long-lasting and durable. Therefore, in my opinion, it is the best option if you want a cheap and lightweight garden hose that lasts.
It is made of highly durable polyurethane that can resist low temperatures and high pressure of up to 150 psi and prevents the hose from kinking. Therefore, it is suitable for all kinds of climates, backyard sizes, and different applications.
The Eley hose is resistant to punctures and abrasions, allowing it to last for long periods. The company also offers a 10-Year No Leak Warranty, ensuring that you can get a replacement in case of a defective model.
It is also a safe option for drinking water. The hose interior is completely lead-free and prevents the growth of mold and mildew. Therefore, you can safely use it on your vegetables or pet water bowls without worries.
Additionally, it only uses solid brass fittings instead of aluminum fittings that corrode more easily. My only criticism of this product is that it is not available in a ¾ inch diameter. So, it doesn’t support the increased water flow you might need for commercial applications.
If you buy this hose, you may also like to get the Eley hose reel.
PROS
- Value for money
- Durable design
- Drinking water safe
CONS
- Not available in ¾ inch diameter
Flexzilla HFZG550YW Garden Lead-In Hose ⅝ Inches – Best for Extreme Conditions
l- Reasonably-priced.
- Flexible and durable in all conditions.
- Very lightweight.
The Flexzilla HFZG550YW is the best lightweight garden hose for extreme conditions. It weighs 8 pounds (3.6kg) but has one of the most reinforced designs against temperature variations.
The hose can withstand a varied temperature range from -40° to 140°F (-40 to 60℃) without cracking or losing flexibility. This is especially impressive when you consider that the hose is not an expensive model. So if you live in extreme climate conditions, it could be an excellent model.
It has abrasion-resistant outer and crush-free aluminum fittings, which protect it against damage from you stepping on it or dragging it. So it might be suitable if you want a long-lasting hose.
The Flexzilla hose also has one of the highest water pressures of lightweight garden hoses, with a maximum pressure of 150 psi, making it suitable for washing and garden purposes.
The hose is made of a hybrid polymer with a latex core that is resistant to leaks and doesn’t release harmful chemicals into the water. In addition, it is classified as drinking water safe, making it a great option for pets and vegetable patches.
The main downside of the Flexzilla hose is that it doesn’t have a kink-free design. As a result, it can get caught up sometimes, which could be frustrating if you need to maneuver around trees or across a large backyard.
PROS
- Budget-friendly
- Ultra-lightweight
- Suitable in extreme conditions
CONS
- Not kink-free
Flexi Hose With 8 Function Nozzle – Best Flexible Option
- Flexible and expandable.
- Can handle high-pressure applications.
- User-friendly and adaptable.
The Flexi Hose with 8 Function Nozzle is the best flexible, lightweight garden hose. It has an elastic latex outer that can withstand temperature variations and high water pressure without losing its flexibility or integrity.
It is also an expandable garden hose. When you flow water through the interior, it expands to three times its original length. So, it is one of the best space-saving options if you have a smaller area. I also recommend putting it on a hose reel to save even more space.
This hose weighs less than 3 pounds (1.4kg), making it a very lightweight choice. It is also adaptable to most taps and easy to use. Therefore, it could be an excellent option for the elderly, people with disabilities, or kids wanting to help with gardening.
It can handle high pressure up to 12 bar (174 psi), more than enough for most garden applications. Although it offers a decent working temperature range of 41-113℉ (5-45℃), this makes it unsuitable for winter use in freezing climates.
The critical disadvantage of this lightweight garden hose is its durability. Although the company offers a replacement warranty, various people have had issues with the material cracking or splitting after a year or two. Therefore, it isn’t the longest-lasting model on the market.
PROS
- Highly flexible
- Space-saving
- Easy to use
CONS
- Lacks durability compared to other models
Wonder Home Gardens Expandable Garden Hose – Best Expandable Garden Hose
- Can expand to three times its size.
- Lightweight, adaptable, and user-friendly.
- Easy to store.
The Wonder Home Gardens model is the best expandable lightweight garden hose. This budget-friendly device is 17ft long (5.2m) in its base form and can extend to 50ft (15.2m) long as water flows through it.
This makes it an excellent space-saving option because you can coil it up with minimal effort. Of course, you may still like to use a hose reel to keep it in good condition, but it isn’t essential for this garden hose design.
It is made with a latex material with a braided design that allows it to remain flexible and prevents kinking. So, it could be an excellent choice if you need to drag it around a large backyard or garden with many trees and plants.
This lightweight garden hose has solid copper adapters with quick connect capabilities. Therefore, you can use it in a variety of garden settings with minimal fuss. So, if you are looking for convenience and user-friendliness, it could be the correct choice.
However, the Wonder Homes Gardens lightweight garden hose is not the most durable option. It may spring leaks after a few months or years of use, particularly if you don’t maintain it properly.
This probably won’t bother you if you’re looking for an affordable and functional hose for occasional backyard use. However, serious gardeners may want to look elsewhere for a more durable device.
PROS
- Expandable design
- Kink-free
- Adaptable
CONS
- Can leak after long-term use
Water Right PSH-050-MG-4PKRS 400 Series Hose – Best Drinking Water Safe Option
- Free from toxic chemicals and hose fittings.
- Lightweight and maneuverable.
- Usable in extreme weather conditions.
The Water Right PSH-050-MG-4PKRS 400 is the best drinking water-safe lightweight garden hose. It is made of non-toxic polyurethane and uses lead-free fittings to prevent chemical absorption into the water. Therefore, it is one of the safest options to use for pet drinking water and vegetable gardens.
It weighs less than 3 pounds (1.4kg) and has a thin diameter of 7/16 inches (11.1mm), making it a very easy option to carry around and handle. In addition, if you have arthritis or other hand problems, this hose design could minimize strain on your wrists.
Despite its small size, the hose is surprisingly hardy. You can use it in all temperature conditions, even in freezing climates. It maintains flexibility and avoids kinking in all temperatures, and doesn’t break or crack.
It has decent connections, and you shouldn’t expect any leaks with this hose. Although it isn’t the cheapest lightweight garden hose on the market, it could be worth the slightly higher price tag for its durability.
The main downside of this lightweight garden hose is its low pressure. It has a flow rate of 4 gallons per minute at a pressure of 40 psi. While this is plenty for the average gardener, it means that you can’t easily use the hose to wash outdoor surfaces, like your concrete patio.
PROS
- Drinking water safe
- Easy to carry
- Wide temperature range
CONS
- Lower pressure
Zero-G 4001-50 Lightweight Garden Hose – Most Durable Option
- Resistant to internal and external pressure and damage.
- Non-toxic material and fittings.
- Long-lasting investment.
The Zero-G 4001-50 is the best durable, lightweight garden hose. It can withstand high-pressure applications up to 600 psi, significantly higher than most garden hoses. So, you can use it for watering and pressure-washing your outdoor spaces.
It is made of tightly woven G-Force fibers, which offer a similar strength to commercial-grade hoses. These fibers resist pressure internally and also prevent external damage, like cracking or breaking from being stepped on. It also has crush-proof hose fittings to protect it further.
This hose’s flexible core prevents kinking and makes it easier to maneuver across rugged terrain. It is also strong enough to operate in cold conditions as low as 35℉ (1.7℃). So while this isn’t suitable for extreme climates, it is enough for many cold winter conditions.
The hose is lead-free and classified as drinking water safe. Although some sources say you should never drink directly from a hose, just to be safe, it means that you can use it on your edible crops or fill your dog’s water bowl without worrying about contamination.
The main drawback of this hose is its price. It costs significantly more than the average model, so it could be a pricey investment. However, it could be worth it if you prefer to spend more at the outset for a long-lasting and well-designed garden hose.
PROS
- Durable
- Drinking water safe
- High-pressure
CONS
- Pricier than other models
Water Right PSH-2050-MG Hose 500 Series – Best Kink-Free Option
- Flexible and anti-kink design.
- Lead-free and non-toxic.
- High flow rate at lower pressures.
The Water Right PSH-2050-MG 500 is the best kink-free lightweight garden hose. It features strain relief devices on either side of the hose that prevents it from kinking. The polyurethane material is also flexible, allowing you to use it easily in most scenarios.
It also has an excellent flow rate. At just 50 psi, you can get a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute. So, it could be a great option if you only have access to lower water pressure. This also means you won’t have to stand around waiting for it to come out.
The hose is certified lead-free and free from BPA. The associated fittings are also safe for drinking water use, as none of the materials contaminate the water. So if you’re worried about your long-term health, this could be an excellent option.
It can handle extreme weather conditions, including below freezing, without splitting or cracking. Therefore, it could be an excellent ally if you live in the far north or south. However, I still don’t recommend leaving your hose outside during the winter.
Like the Zero-G hose, the Water Right 500 is more expensive than your average lightweight garden hose. Therefore, it may not be suitable if you are on a strict budget. However, if you have the cash to spare, it could be worth the investment.
PROS
- Kink-free
- High flow rate
- Drinking water safe
CONS
- Pricey
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Lightweight Garden Hose For Your Garden
What Is The Best Lightweight Garden Hose Material?
You have a few options to choose from with lightweight garden hoses:
- Polyurethane: This is one of the most versatile garden hose materials, prized for its flexibility and user-friendliness. You often find this material in expandable garden hoses, and it is much lighter than rubber. It is also a safer option for drinking water because it leaches fewer or no chemicals. However, it is less durable.
- Vinyl (PVC): Vinyl hoses are relatively lightweight and affordable. They are also usually reinforced with nylon mesh or cording, making them stronger and less likely to break. However, the material is stiffer, less flexible, and more likely to kink. PVC is also more likely to release toxic chemicals that you should not drink.
- Rubber: It is one of the most common garden hose materials because it is durable and resistant to cracking, splitting, and other external damage. It usually has a vinyl core that further protects the hose against damage. However, it is generally heavier than polyurethane.
- Stainless steel: Stainless steel is a less common but suitable option for lightweight garden hoses. It is much stronger than other materials like polyurethane or rubber. It is also a safe drinking water option because it does not release toxic chemicals. It may also be lighter than other materials.
As you can see, each material has its pros and cons. So, you will need to consider your specific needs and other factors when choosing a lightweight garden hose.
What Are The Best Lightweight Garden Hose Fittings?
You can usually find lightweight hose fittings made of the following materials:
- Aluminum: This metal is lightweight but very strong, allowing it to withstand high internal pressure. It is also externally durable, making it an excellent option if you want your hose fittings to last. However, aluminum may get stuck on your faucet and make it more difficult to disengage.
- Brass: Brass is one of the most common options for hose fittings. It is durable and less likely to get stuck on the faucet when you try to disconnect it. However, it’s comparatively heavy and stiff. Older brass fittings may also release lead into the water, which can be toxic if you drink large amounts of it.
- Stainless steel: This metal is a less common option for hose fittings, but it may come with the product if you buy a stainless steel hose.
How Will You Use Your Hose?
You should consider your primary gardening needs. For example, if you simply want to water your lawn and flower beds, you do not need a high-pressure hose. Low or standard pressure hoses should be more than enough for your watering needs.
However, high-pressure hoses can be useful if you also want to use them for outdoor maintenance. For example, if you want to wash dirt and dust off your outdoor patio or pathways, the higher pressure could make the job faster and easier.
Do You Have Spatial Restrictions?
If you have limited space to work with, you should consider an expandable lightweight garden hose. These models increase their length when water runs through them and then return to their original size. Therefore, they can be excellent options for smaller areas.
If you have many obstacles in your backyard, you should also prioritize a kink-free hose. Flexible materials that you can drag around without impeding the water flow will be ideal if you need to wind the hose around trees or other obstructions.
Do You Have Physical Restrictions?
The lightest hose models are particularly suitable if you have a disability or chronic pain. If you struggle to maneuver a regular hose, you should choose the lightest model that you can find. It can reduce strain on your hands, arms, and the rest of your body.
Expandable lightweight garden hoses are also a good option because you don’t have to drag the entire weight. Instead, you can get the hose into position and then turn on the water, which will cause it to expand.
Where Will You Store Your Lightweight Garden Hose?
You should consider if you want to leave your lightweight garden hose outside or store it in your shed with your gardening tools. I recommend keeping it inside to make it last longer, but this isn’t always possible with space restrictions.
If you must leave your hose outside, then you should opt for the most durable material that you can find. Some lightweight garden hoses also include UV protection to prevent the exterior from cracking or breaking under prolonged exposure to sunlight.
What Is The Climate Like Where You Live?
If you live in an extreme climate, you should choose a lightweight garden hose that can withstand high temperature ranges. Otherwise, you risk the material cracking or warping under high or low heat.
Thankfully, there are various models that can handle sub-zero temperatures without damaging the integrity of the hose interior or exterior.
Regardless, you should still store your hose in more temperature conditions inside when not in use. By doing so, you can help it last longer and protect your investment.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Lightweight Garden Hoses?
PROS
- Easier to use for children and the elderly.
- Put minimal strain on your hands.
- Usually flexible and suitable for various environments.
- Usually take up less storage space.
CONS
- May be easier to break than heavy-duty hoses.
- Usually have small diameters, and so you may have lower water pressure.
How To Make Your Lightweight Garden Hose Last
Regardless of the lightweight hose that you choose, there are a few things that you can do to make it last longer.
Drain It Properly
You should always drain your hose after you finish using it. If you simply release the nozzle and put down your hose, there will still be water stuck inside. This can damage your hose by increasing the water pressure inside the hose, potentially causing it to burst.
Rather than releasing the nozzle on your sprayer and then switching it off at the top, do the opposite. Turn off the water supply and then press on the trigger until all of the water has passed.
You will need to remember to do this every single time you use your hose. Otherwise, it can cause damage over time and eventually destroy it.
Carry It Correctly
If your hose is long, you may be tempted to drag it along the ground. However, this can damage your hose and fittings. Particularly if you have rocky or uneven terrain in your backyard, it could slowly wear away at your hose exterior.
It is better to carry your lightweight garden hose in your arms. If you cannot, then at least avoid dragging the nozzle on the ground. It can weaken the fitting connections and cause leaks.
Store It Properly
The best way to make your lightweight garden hose last longer is to store it correctly. Firstly, you should keep it inside, outside of the sunshine and extreme weather conditions.
If you have a garden shed or other storage area, this can be the perfect place to store your hose. By doing so, you prevent the temperature variations and UV light from warping the hose material and potentially weakening it.
You should also wind up your hose and use a hose reel if you own one. By storing your hose without tangles or kinks, you can keep it in good condition for longer.
Repair Any Leaks
If your hose springs a leak from a crack in the exterior, you should repair the hole immediately. If the hole is tiny, you may be able to fill it with super glue and put a rubber patch on it. If the exterior is rough, sand it first with sandpaper until it is smooth.
Repairs can be an excellent option to get a few more months or years out of your lightweight garden hose. However, you should be able to avoid the necessity by investing in a high-quality product and following the other tips above.
FAQs
Are Stainless Steel Garden Hoses Better Than Rubber?
Stainless steel hoses are generally better than rubber ones because they are stronger, harder to cut, almost impossible to kink or tangle, and can withstand high water pressure without changing their shape. They are also slower to heat up in the sun and may be lighter than rubber.
How Much Does A 50-Foot Garden Hose Weigh?
A 50-foot garden hose could weigh as little as 3 pounds (1.4kg) if you choose an ultra-lightweight model made of a hybrid polymer. On the other hand, standard garden hoses may weigh closer to 9 or 10 pounds (4.1 or 4.5kg).
How Long Should A Garden Hose Last?
A high-quality garden hose should last 5-10 years if you maintain it. This means that you need to drain it thoroughly after using it, coil it up correctly, and store it out of the sun. Otherwise, it may only last a couple of years before you need to replace it.
A Complete Guide To The Best Lightweight Garden Hoses
In conclusion, the Eley 5/8-Inch Polyurethane Garden Hose is one of the best lightweight garden hoses. Although it is budget-friendly, the resistant design means it can last a long time and avoids kinking or bending. So, you get maximum bang for your buck.
I also love the Zero-G 4001-50 Lightweight Garden Hose , a durable option resistant to high pressure, kink-resistant, drinking water safe, and delivers powerful results. If you are prepared to invest more, it could be one of the most long-lasting choices.
Overall, you should look for durability, flexibility, user-friendliness, and kink-free designs when choosing a lightweight garden hose. By investing a little more in a higher-end model, you can usually get more years of use.
So, which hose will you choose for your garden?
Last update on 2023-03-27 at 00:29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
