Best Full-Sized Stirrup Hoes
Hoss Stirrup Hoe
The Hoss Stirrup Hoe is one of the more expensive options, but if you want an easy to use hoe that is made in the USA and will last a lifetime it is the one to get.
Its 6” spring steel, powder-coated blade is extremely sharp on both sides and oscillates at an ideal 20-degree angle in either direction for very efficient removal of weeds. It is perfect for heavy, tough usage. A larger than normal blade width also means that the hoe will cover a larger surface area, saving time.
Ash, which is a strong heavy hardwood is used for the 60” handle that is waxed and not varnished, so it won’t crack or peel over time – something all too common with garden tools with wood handles. At 60” the handle is also suitable for taller users – those 6ft and over.
- Blade Width: 6”
- Handle Length: 60”
- Made in USA
Flexrake 1000L Hula-Ho Weeder Cultivator
Also made in the USA, the Flexrake 1000L Hula-Ho has a heat treated, self-sharpening blade that is best suited for shallow rooted weeds in loose soil. If you want a hoe that can handle tougher conditions though, the Hoss is the one to get.
One of the best things about the Flexrake 1000L is its lightweight design. With a handle that measures 54” in length shorter individuals will also appreciate this hoe.
- Blade Width: 4”
- Handle Length: 54”
- Made in USA
True Temper Action Hoe Cultivator with Fiberglass Handle
The True Temper Action Hoe is unique in that its handle is made of fiberglass.
Fiberglass is advantageous due to its very lightweight and durable properties, making this hoe one of the lightest yet strongest on the market. The handle is also cushioned and quite thick, so you’re able to get a sturdy grip and allows for better control.
With a blade with of 6.25” that is thicker at the center for strength and sharper at the edges for cleaner cutting the hoe covers a large surface area, making weeding time a lot more efficient.
Don’t think that it isn’t strong either. The hoe has no trouble getting through the toughest of clay soils.
- Blade Width: 6.25”
- Handle Length: 54”
- Made in the USA
Ames 2825800 Action Hoe
The Ames 2825800 is a little different to other stirrup hoes with its more prominent triangular-shaped head, designed for better precision.
Its handle features a 10-inch cushion grip for enhanced comfort and control. It measures a standard 54”, making it suitable for most people.
While it may not be as light or efficient as other stirrup hoes, and it won’t be able to get through hard soil, it’s worth mentioning because for the price it can’t be beat.
- Blade Width: 5.75”
- Handle Length: 54”
Best Mini Stirrup Hoes
Flexrake 500W Hula-Ho Mini
The Flexrake 500W is the mini version of the 1000W. It has all the features that gardeners have come to love from the original Flexrake but in a scaled down size.
Made in the USA, the 500W blade width measures 3”, making it perfect for smaller areas and tight spaces where precision is key.
It can grab weeds from a depth of about 2 inches, and like all mini stirrup hoes is best used in loose soil.
- Blade Width: 3”
- Handle Length: 14”
- Made in the USA
Ames Mini Action Hoe
Besides its smaller size, the Ames Mini Action Hoe is slightly different to its bigger brother as the shape hasn’t got such a prominent triangular shape. It is a great tool to weed between plants and flowers with precision.
With a blade width of 3.625” you can cover a good area in one push-pull motion and will be met with complete removal of weeds just below the surface of the soil.
- Blade Width: 3.625”
- Handle Length: 14”
Important Factors to Consider
Handle Length
Depending on your height a stirrup hoe with a shorter handle may not work too well for you. If you’re over 6ft it’s usually a good idea to buy a hoe with a handle that is greater than the standard 54”. The Hoss stirrup hoe may be your best bet. It’s not as if you should completely rule out hoes with shorter handles but they may not be as comfortable to use.
Handle Material
Hula hoe handles are generally made of wood because it is a durable material and keeps costs down. You’ll usually see that the top of the handle will be cushioned for better comfort ad grip, and the entire handle may be waxed to reduce the likelihood of peeling and cracking.
Buying a hoe with a wood handle is perfectly fine, but many who have used a hoe with a fiberglass handle struggle going back. Not only is fiberglass lightweight, making the hoe easier on the back and easier to use with greater precision, but it is also a very strong material that is less likely to break as a result of impact. There is also not chance of peeling or cracking occurring.
Miniature vs Full Size
The choice shouldn’t necessarily be between either buying a miniature or full-sized hoe but buying both instead.
Full-sized hoes are great for covering larger areas and better suited in dealing with hard soil. Minaiture hoes, on the other hand, are great when more precision and control is required. Most gardeners will require the advantages both can provide.
However, if you’re only working in tight spaces and loose soil, you can get away with using a miniature hoe. If not, we recommend buying both.
Replacement Blades and Handles
When the hoe’s blade is no longer as sharp and shows signs of rust, or when the handle has cracked, it is often better to replace them instead of buying a completely new hoe. This usually works out cheaper. All products listed have replacements available.
Country of Manufacture
The country of manufacture doesn’t necessarily guarantee quality, but many people find comfort in buying a stirrup hoe from the USA, as it can be at least somewhat of an indicator of guarantee.
