I was using the kit hose for about the last 3 years. and wanted to try something else so I purchased this hose. WOW. What the heck was I waiting for. This hose is so easy to deal with. My old vinyl hose was always stiff, constantly fighting it, and as another reviewer mentioned never laid flat on the ground. This hose is so much better in every way. I cringe just thinking if I ever need to use the vinyl hose again.