Hoses are garden essentials - we may not give them much thought, but we'd be lost without them. They allow us to easily feed our plants, wash our cars and even have impromptu water fights on hot days.
The best hose pipes are often compact and simple to use, but they come in all shapes and sizes, with varying price tags attached. So, it's a good idea to do a bit of browsing before you choose the right option for your garden. Whether you want a small hose pipe to pack away when not in use, or a more visually appealing option to leave out all year round, we've got something for you.
For hose pipes with storage caddies, check out our favourite garden hose reels and holders.
How long do garden hoses last?
Generally, hose pipes last between five and 10 years, but can have a longer lifespan if they’re made from durable materials and treated well. Of course, you can make repairs to your hose pipe, but investing in a high-quality option will save you money and stress in the long run.
When you’ve got your hose pipe in place, you can keep it in good condition by coiling it up carefully and storing it out of the sun and rain. Also, try to avoid dragging it over rough ground and drain out any residual water once you’re done.
What size garden hose is best?
The best hose pipe for you depends on the size of your garden. You’ll need one long enough to reach the pots and borders furthest away from your tap, but it’s worth getting the shortest length you could potentially need. The smaller the hose, the lower the chances of kinking, which can quickly damage it and reduce its lifespan.
What is the most durable type of garden hose?
Most standard hoses you find in hardware shops and garden centres are made from reinforced vinyl, but there are some more durable options on the market. Rubber and metal hose pipes are much stronger and less likely to kink, crack or deteriorate in the sun.
While these durable options may be slightly more expensive than the average vinyl hose pipe, they’ll probably stand the test of time and save you money in the long run.
If you or your pets drink from the hose, be sure to choose a safe option, as rubber and vinyl can contaminate the water with chemicals.
Best hose pipes to buy in 2024
Keep scrolling for our run-down of the best hose pipes on the market right now.
Expandable Garden Hose
Expandable hoses can save you a lot of space, as they grow by up to three times when filled with water. Once you’re done, they shrink back down again for easy storage.
This is one of the best hose pipes if you’re after a practical, low-maintenance option. It’s made from high-density polyester and comes with solid brass fittings, rather than cheaper aluminium or plastic accessories.
Plus, you’ll get a spray nozzle with 10 different watering patterns and a lever to control water flow.
Choose between two sizes, which can expand up to 50ft and 100ft with water inside.
Stainless Steel Hose
- Buy now from Coopers of Stortford (£49.99)
A stainless steel model is one of the best hose pipe designs for durability and longevity. This one is designed to last; it won’t kink or puncture, get sun damage or become rusty.
Unlike many hose pipes, this one is lightweight and easy to coil up. It comes with a free storage bag to keep it safe until your next watering session.
The pack also includes a seven-pattern spray gun with a trigger lock and universal fittings to match most outdoor taps. And the hose pipe will stay cool in the sun, so it’s simple to arrange without getting burnt.
You can either go for the 15m hose pipe, or a longer 30m version.
Hozelock hose
Hozelock is a popular brand for hose pipes, so it’s worth considering if you’re after an inexpensive option to get you started. With its bright yellow colouring, it’s not the most subtle hose pipe on the market, but it does come with some useful features. The actual pipe has four layers, including braided reinforcement for added strength.
Plus, it’s safe to leave outdoors in all weathers, as it can stand up to frost and UV rays. It’ll continue working well even in temperatures as low as -20°C and as high as 40°C.
You get plenty of choice when it comes to the length of your hose pipe, as it comes in 15m, 30m and 50m versions.
Garden Glory Hose
- Buy now from Made In Design (£96.10)
Hose pipes may not be the most aesthetically pleasing bit of kit in your garden, but this company has proven they can be beautiful. Garden Glory’s range of chic designs are probably the most stylish options on the market.
These hose pipes come in a range of different colours, which you can mix and match with the brand's eye-catching wall mounts and nozzles to create your own unique look. The accessories range from the understated to the bold and beautiful, so you can customise your choice according to the amount of attention you want your hose pipe to draw.
Farrington garden hose
- Buy now from Garden Trading (£45.00)
Here’s another stylish hose pipe for your garden. With its muted grey tone, it’ll blend in nicely among outdoor walls, sheds and other furniture items.
The Farrington expanding hose stretches to 30m in length, and has seven spray gun settings to protect your plants as you water them.
Combine this hose pipe with the matching hose hanger or hose hook for smart and easy storage.
McGregor Heavy Duty Anti Kink Hose Set
This hose pipe combines durability with affordability, so it’s a great everyday option. It’s a subtle grey-green colour and, at 25m long, it should reach across most gardens.
For added strength, there are five layers reinforcing the hose pipe, so it shouldn’t kink or knot. It also comes with a premium spray nozzle and tap adaptors to suit both half-inch and three-quarter-inch fittings.
Using your hose for cleaning tasks? Try one of these high-quality pressure washers - we've listed our favourites.