Is a Zero-Turn Lawn Mower Right for You?

Is a Zero-Turn Lawn Mower Right for You?

Homeowners looking to reduce the amount of time spent mowing their lawns may want to invest in a zero-turn mower. With free time at a premium and these powerful mowers becoming more affordable, many homeowners are asking themselves if it’s time to step up. But is a zero-turn mower right for you?

The prospect of stepping up to a zero-turn lawn mower is an exciting one. They’re fun to drive, make you feel like a pro and allow you to more quickly mow your lawn so you can spend time off the mower and enjoy your backyard with family.

But is a zero-turn mower right for you? Perhaps your acreage has grown and you need to replace the lawn tractor you’ve used all these years. Or maybe you’re looking to upgrade your experience from a traditional lawn tractor for additional maneuverability and speed. Whatever your situation, it’s important to consider the factors that may impact your decision to become a new zero-turn owner.

You’re looking to save on time spent mowing the lawn


If saving time is a crucial factor for you, a zero-turn mower is right up your alley. One of the chief benefits of owning a zero-turn is the efficiency gained through speed and turning capabilities. Consider that zero-turns tend to outpace lawn tractors, which means you can mow your entire lawn in less time.

Time is also saved by reducing the amount of turns needed to complete a job. Because you can turn 360 degrees and mow in reverse, you don’t need to waste time doubling back to cut missed strips of grass like you would on a tractor. Those turns add up.

You have plenty of obstacles to mow around


Zero-turn mowers are ideal from a maneuverability standpoint and provide greater control for mowing around obstacles. So if your yard is full of trees, flowerbeds, swing sets or anything else that requires tight turning radius, you should consider stepping up to a zero-turn. The added maneuverability also reduces the need for trimming around obstacles after mowing is completed and makes jobs easier by requiring only a simple turn at the end of a row.

Zero-turn lawn mowers can have both lap bars or a steering wheel


Most zero-turn lawn mowers are operated using a lap-bar mechanism that allows for precise steering and the ability to maneuver in tight spaces. For those used to traditional steering wheels, this can be an intimidating departure. However, some zero-turn lawn mowers do come with a steering wheel option, which maintains the maneuverability of a traditional zero-turn but forgoes the learning curve necessary to operate lap bars.

Zero-turn mowers with steering wheels are also ideal for homeowners who have variable or hilly terrain on their properties, as the steering mechanism allows for increased stability on hills that helps the mower stick to side slopes more confidently.

You want a more complete mowing experience


At the end of the day, stepping up to a zero-turn lawn mower means evolving the way you mow your lawn. From durability, performance, and cut quality to speed, comfort, and versatility, there are many components that factor into an upgraded experience, and the best mowers combine each into one complete mowing experience. Be sure to look for a mower that offers excellent cut quality, a strong, durable deck, a comfortable ride and plenty of options for attachments such as haulers, lawn sweepers and striping kits.

The move to a zero-turn lawn mower is an exciting one for any homeowner. And if you’re looking to step up from your current machine, a zero-turn mower should be in your consideration set. Ask yourself if saving time, sidestepping obstacles, and improving your overall mowing experience sounds like a step up from your current situation. If so, be sure to check out our lineup of all-new Ultima Series™ zero-turn lawn mowers.