Dramm ColorStorm Premium Review

A great piece of equipment doesn't need to be complicated. Yard and garden tools can range from high powered battery leaf blowers to simple garden shovels that have remained unchanged in their design for decades. A garden hose may fall into the latter category, but that doesn't mean they haven't benefited from the latest and greatest materials and design upgrades. The Dramm ColorStorm is a quality hose that stands out with its eye-popping color, not to mention its excellent handling, performance, and jaw-dropping length option. This hose is one of our lineup's more expensive and heavy options, but that price is a necessary sacrifice for top-notch performance. This hose is ideal for heavy-duty yard applications, requiring durable materials and extra-long lengths.

Performance Comparison

Convenience

The Dramm Colorstorm is unlike other hoses in our lineup; its shape is hexagonal instead of round. During testing, we felt this shape, among other factors, contributed to a very easy-to-use experience and resulted in very little kinking.

Despite the larger circumference of this hose compared to others in our lineup, it is easy to coil and uncoil. We found that coils tended to lay flat when looped, which resulted in an easier time storing the hose when not in use. The Dramm also pulled out of coils easily and laid perfectly flat, making it stress-free to go from storage to usage with no kinks.

During testing, the Dramm actively avoided kinking. Loops and twists in the hose were easy to pull out with a flick. The Dramm is also very flexible and maneuverable, impressive given the larger diameter and heavier weight per foot of the hose. We easily navigated garden obstacles but were most impressed by its ability to resist becoming stuck underneath car tires when we were washing our car. Even when pulling the hose at a 90-degree angle to the car tire, it slid right through.

The large hex coupling on the Dramm female end of the hose is also easy to use. We were able to hand tighten or use a wrench to firmly tighten the connector to the spigot. On the male side, which would connect to a nozzle, the coupling is much smaller. We were able to hand tighten with no leaks, but it was less pleasant to use and didn't feel like we could tighten all the way.

Performance

Looking at how easy a hose is to use is one thing, but how well it works is another. We considered both in our assessment, and the Dramm performed just as well as it was easy to use.

We had no trouble with the Dramm across any of our performance metrics tests. Using a wrench to snug up the connections prevented any leaks. The hexagonal shape kept the hose flexible and maneuverable, and it felt as though the hose actively resisted any attempt to kink it. Even when uncoiling after a long period in storage, the Dramm stretched flat immediately.

The larger size of the Dramm also benefits its spray performance. Although a nozzle isn't included with the hose, we tested the Dramm with their garden hose nozzle, a popular option with nine different spray settings. Each of the nine spray settings works well, and we experienced great spray volume and pressure. The nozzle has a squeeze trigger to control the water flow and a catch that allows you to lock the hose in the on position. We found this catch tended to move into the locked position on its own, which was mildly frustrating.

Construction Quality

The construction quality of the Dramm Colorstorm is also very impressive. This is a hose that we're confident we could use and abuse, not to mention leave out exposed to the rain, sun, and elements.

The thick, abrasion-resistant covering on the hose is both secure to grip and durable. We experienced no issues during our testing after dragging it across pavement, rocks, and more. We did note that scuffing and dirt show up easily on the bright yellow hose but do not detract from performance.

Variety of Options

The Dramm Colorstorm truly stands out in its variety of available options. Whereas most hoses are available in one diameter and a handful of length options, the Dramm exceeds expectations.

The Dramm is available in either a ⅝ or ¾ inch diameter, as well as four standard lengths and custom length options up to 330 feet long. That's over 100 feet longer than the next longest hose. The ability to custom order a hose length means you can pay for exactly the amount of hose that you need. While that might be overkill for the average gardener, if you need a long hose, this could be the hose you've been looking for.

Should You Buy the Dramm Colorstorm Premium?

The Dramm is a burly hose designed for people who demand the best from their yard and garden equipment. It has great performance, is easy to use, and will likely last through years of use and abuse. That said, these benefits come at a cost and the Dramm costs a fair bit. Still, if you're looking for a top-quality hose or want the ability to purchase a custom hose length up to 330 feet long, the Dramm is our pick for you.

What Other Garden Hoses Should You Consider?

There are several other hoses in our lineup that we recommend if you're on the hunt for the best hose money can buy. The Eley Polyurethane commands a premium price point, but its construction quality, handling, and performance are unrivaled. The Eley is also available in a variety of options and lengths up to 200 feet. It's a great pick if you're looking to splurge on a hose, and we don't think you'll regret it. That said, there are many other hoses that can accomplish the same things as the Dramm and Eley. The Continental ContiTech Premium is a heavy-duty hose well suited to the rigors of yard work and has great spray performance. The Giraffe Tools Hybrid is another high-performing option in our lineup that we liked for its ability to be purchased in smaller sizes, ideal if you have a small patio or yard that needs watered.