Why a Push Mower is Better Than a Lawn Tractor

Many people use a push mower because their yard isn't large enough to need a riding mower, or they can't afford one. I have an acre to mow and still prefer to walk behind a lawn mower for several reasons.

No Gym Membership Required

Pushing a lawn mower is great exercise. I sit at this computer long enough that I welcome the opportunity to stretch my legs and soak up some sunshine while also accomplishing a task. Driving a lawn tractor might get you outside, but does little to get the blood pumping.

Save at the Pump

A larger, heavier riding lawn mower is going to use a lot more gas than a push mower. The deck size might cut a wider path, but because it's more difficult to maneuver in other than large, open areas, you end up wasting time and gas. A walk-behind mower is not only lighter, but it also doesn't have the added weight of the rider, so requires much less fuel to operate.

In addition to saving gas, the initial cost of a push mower is going to be a fraction of the price of a lawn tractor and will likewise be cheaper to service and maintain.

Easy to Maneuver = Time Saved

As mentioned above, a riding mower may cover more ground with each sweep because of the larger deck size, but its size also decreases maneuverability, requiring much wider turns. Because a push mower can get into tighter spaces and around trees and other obstacles more easily, you'll save time (and gas) by using your own leg-power.

It takes me less time to mow my acre with a walk-behind mower than when a friend does it with the lawn tractor.

DIY Means Better Results

The weight of a riding mower plus rider will leave deeper tracks in your lawn that take longer to bounce back. Because the grass is pushed down from the tractor wheels, it often won't cut evenly on the next pass -- especially if it's damp - again requiring more time/gas to do the job right. The lighter push mower doesn't leave deep tracks and the grass will cut more evenly on the first go 'round.

If the grass is wet or it's not an established lawn, you can actually damage your lawn when making turns on a lawn tractor. The large wheels can pull the wet grass instead of glide over it, sometimes leaving bare patches behind.

Wrapping it Up

Using your own power behind a push mower saves time, money and gas. You'll also get exercise without paying for a gym membership, and end up with a better looking lawn for it. So what if the Smiths have a bigger tractor than the Joneses? Keep your money in your pocket.