Mowing hills and other steep slopes have never been smooth, and not every mower can handle them. You need to be tricky and use the right mower for the hills and steep terrain as far as safety and performance concerns.
For instance, push reel mowers are not suitable for hills as they need additional physical effort to mow uphill. On the other hand, there are always risk factors in handling the riding mower on the steep slopes unless you are an expert rider.
However, considering all the limitations in mind, we did an extensive study on the best lawn mower for hills. We are covering various mower options that are the best for the mountain and steep slopes in terms of safety and efficiency. Here we go.
Product Image | Name | Features | Price |
---|---|---|---|
| Best Premium Choice Snapper P2185020E / 7800982 | • Self-propelled gas-powerd • 190cc Briggs and Stratton • Hi VAC deck • 7cutting height positions | Price Please |
| Best For Budget Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc | • Self-propelled gas-powered • 163cc Briggs and Stratton • Deck 21-Inch Tri-Action • Cutting height positions | Price Please |
| Best Overall Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc | • Self-propelled gas-powered • 187cc Briggs and Stratton • Deck 21-Inch Tri-Action • Cutting height positions | Price Please |
| Best For Electric Black + Decker BEMW482ES | • Corded electric push • 12 AMP Motor • Deck 17-Inch • 6 cutting height positions | Price Please |
| Best For Budget Electric American Lawn Mower Company 50514 | • Corded electric push • 11 AMP Motor • Deck 14-Inch • 5 cutting height positions | Price Please |
| Best For Cordless Snapper XD 82V MAX | • Cordless electric push • 82V Lithium ion 2.0Ah Battery • Deck 19-Inch • 7 cutting height positions | Price Please |
| Best For Battery Charging EGO Power+ 20-Inch 56-Volt | • Cordless electric push • 56-Volt Lithium-ion, 4.0 ah • Deck 20-Inch • 30% less noise | Price Please |
| Best For Premium Robotic Husqvarna 967622505 | • Robotic Auto-mower • Lithium-ion battery • GPS tracking • Capacity of 3/4 acres | Price Please |
| Best For Lightweight: AI Robotic WORX WG794 Landroid | • Pre-Programmed Robotic • Lithium-ion battery • Artificial intelligence algorithm • 5 Cutting Height Positions | Price Please |
| Best For Turning Radius And Speed Husqvarna YTA24V48 | • Riding lawn mower • 24 HP Briggs and Stratton • 48-inches cutting deck • Adjustable height positions | Price Please |
Navigate Quickly
Best Lawnmower Reviews for Hills in 2022
01. Snapper P2185020E / 7800982 HI VAC: Best Premium Self Propelled Model
Powerful Engine
This mower is powered with the powerful 190cc Briggs and Stratton 850 Pro series engine, which can withstand comfortably hilly terrain. Featuring a ready start system, it will help you to start instantly eliminating any priming and choking problem, just pull and go!
Alternative Starting System
There is a signature feature in this model that comes with an alternative starting option, which can be hardly found in any other lawnmower. It comes with both the electric and the recoiling starting systems that are super comfortable.
You can start with an electrical system with a simple push of a button while you need to pull the cord once in the recoil system, and it will start instantly.
High Speed
This mower offers you decent speed up to 4mph, a perfect walking pace for most people. Featuring a disc drive transmission system, this model can speed up or slow down to maintain an even speed in a hilly area.
Excellent Traction and Smooth Running on Hills
When it comes to traction and smooth running on the steep slopes, with the rear-wheel-drive system, this model ensures straightforward maneuverability without damaging your grass.
Brilliant Mowing Results
Standing out with its Hi VAC deck, the Snapper P2185020E / 7800982 can deliver brilliant mowing results as it effectively cuts the grass.
Further, it can adjust seven cutting height positions from 1.25-Inch to 4-inch so that you can set your height based on your particular type of grass. You can do it with a single lever from a fingertip away.
Hi VAC Deck Acts as Vacuum
The unique feature of the Hi VAC deck along with a high lift blade and rolled deck edge is that it can cut the grass without leaving clumps and patches.
Plus, it has a lot of airflows similar to a vacuum to suck the clippings into the bag resulting in absolute precision to leave the lawn super clean.
3 in 1 Capability
This mower has a 3 in 1 ability meaning that it can be used for mulching, rear bagging, and side discharging. The bag that comes with this model is relatively bigger that can eliminate the need for emptying frequently, yet emptying it is also very easy.
Additional Good Features
A lot of features, including foam grip, a quick access throttle lever, cup holder, and variable handle height with 3-inches increments, make this model convenient and comfortable for the users. On the upside, additionally, you can enjoy a 3-year warranty in case there’s a problem.
Downside
The only downside we have noticed in this model that some users might not be ready to spend $740 though it is a super performing mower.
- Powerful engine and durable cutting deck
- Rear-wheel drive with excellent traction and mobility
- VAC Deck ensures efficient cutting
- Hi VAC deck sucks up grass clippings like a vacuum.
- 3-n-1 capability – side discharge, bag or mulch
- Alternative ready start starting system – no priming, no choking
- It comes with a high price for the budget-constrained user
02.Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc 21-inch 3-in-1 (Best Budget Self-propelled Model)
We brought here another impressive machine with exceptional performance and features, yet you don’t have to spend that much money on grabbing this model. In fact, this model is considered a solid product that offers some real ergonomic features.
Featuring a 3-in-1 mower, excellent Briggs and Stratton engine V, a 21-inch cutting deck, a 1.9-bushel rear bag, 8-inch front and back wheels, a 1.09-quart gas tank, a rake guard, and a ReadyStart® System, this model comes as a jack of all trades and is pretty good at mowing jobs at a satisfactory level. Let’s check a bit of detail.
Heavy-duty Engine
The TB330, self-propelled RWD lawnmower, is armed with an easy-starting 163cc OHV 725ex Briggs & Stratton engine that makes it conveniently capable of handling the hilly area.
Variable Speed Control System
The good thing is that this model not only can produce decent speed but also control the variable speed that allows the user to set the pace through different terrain as required.
Superior Cutting Deck & Adjustable Height Setting
The cutting deck has been superior to other models of its class as it consists of tri-action blades and a 21 inches large time-saving cutting width.
There are six different grass height settings for you, ranging from 1.25 to 3.75-inches to match all your length requirements. You can control and set the height setting using a single lever system integrated on the deck.
3-in-1 Features
It also offers 3-in-1 features meaning that the mower can mulch, bag, and discard the grass. But what will give you a surprise is that that the mower has a special rake that prevents clumping, raises the grass — Additionally, this model is equipped with a mulching kit to get the nutrients back into the soil.
Deck Cleaning System
I am a bit amazed to see its deck-cleaning system that makes cleaning the blades easier. You know that nothing can be worse than a clogged blade, thanks to this model, as its cleaning system will give you relief from this trouble.
Easy Assemble Feature
You don’t want to be worried about the complexity of assembling this mower as it offers a pretty easy to assemble feature. You can fit together nicely and make it run in just a few minutes.
Drawbacks
This model also belongs to a few drawbacks, along with the above useful features. Back wheels should come in a bigger size for better control over steep hills. On top of that, the lever is made of plastic, which might not be durable.
- 21-inch tri-action blades for the efficient cutting system
- Variable speed control to match different terrains and grass
- Ready Start system
- Easy to assemble
- An easy deck cleaning system
- Special rake
- Can produce smoke a lot in the first use
- Plastic lever might not be durable
Bottom Line
We named it “decent all-around mower,” yet this is not a top model. What you pay, you will get more in return- we can say it.
03. Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc (Best Overall Self-propelled Model)
Honda HRX217K5VKA is another premium model we brought onto our list that delivers exceptional grass-grooming performance year after year. It comes with a complete package of durability, elegance, and functionality for ¼ to ¾ acre of hilly terrain.
However, herewith, we have combined all the information about this model here so that you can take your decision precisely on it.
Automatic Transmission
HRX217K5VKA is armed with a very powerful187cc Gas engine with rear-wheel drive and five-setting automatic transmission to match with variable speed through the different terrain. Adjusting your desired speed is much easy using the speed adjust dial.
Next Deck Feature
The cutting deck comes exceptionally impact-resistant and durable. The unique 21-inch NeXite deck feature gives a limited lifetime warranty, which is absolutely a plus for you. Additionally
Micro-Cut System
Featuring the Twin-blade Micro-Cut system, this model can result in ultra-fine clippings for superior mulching and more clippings per bag.
Vereamow System
The signature feature that we have noticed in this model is Vereamow System. This system allows you to take multiple actions between shredding, mulching, discharging, and bagging your clippings.
Also, it helps to determine what percentage of cuttings you want to save and what percentage of clippings you want instantly returned to the lawn as fertilizer.
Easy and Comfortable
This model has been built, keeping the user’s comfort in mind. This model offers easy to start. Even less physically able persons can conveniently start with its easy pull start.
Additionally, this model has been designed in such a way that you can adjust based on your height. Storing is easy as it can be folded up, making it more compact for suitable storage. Finally, a hooping 89 lbs weight makes it easier for anybody to carry to anywhere.
Drawbacks
Two minor downsides we have identified in this model. The side-discharge mode doesn’t release grass impressively, and deck-washout port is missing for instant cleaning out the deck and blades.
- Quick, Super Easy Start
- Great Mulching with Twin-blade Micro-Cut system.
- Wide Bagging System
- Exceptionally Long Warranty
- Long-Lasting & Reliable
- User-Friendly and easy to operate
- Can’t release grass impressively
- Deck-washout port
Bottom Line
Investing in Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc Gas 21 inch, Versamow System Lawn Mower is a good idea for its ease of use and high-performance year after year. You see you are getting some outstanding features and all of them are worth your money.
Electric Lawnmower
When you don’t want to interrupt the environment by producing emission, making much noise from the gas generated mower, then the electric lawn mowers are right here to be replaced with the gas mower.
Some might think that an electric mower is not as powerful as a gas mower, but with the advancement of technology, few of them can compete with gas power significantly. The next three reviews will be on electric and battery-powered lawn mowers for the hills.
04. Black + Decker BEMW482ES Corded Electric Lawn Mower Review
The BEMW482ES Electric Mower comes with power and several features that make this electric lawn mower great for the steep hills.
I am pretty sure that everybody will love its sporty, race-car look, especially its handle design will make you feel like a pilot. Being a leanly made machine, it can circle garden hoses, ease with fences with no problem
Powerful Electric Motor
Black + Decker BEMW482ES is power with a 12-amp electric motor that has the decent ability to perform on steep hills while cutting performance remains outstanding with any kind of grass.
Additionally, we did not notice any issue running smoothly even over uneven terrain with sticks, stumps, and leaves.
Unique Handle Design
You will be amazed to see its unique handle design that ensures the easy maneuverability to pass through tight spaces. While gripping the handle, you will feel like a pilot, and the mowing job will be just a breeze to you.
With this unique handle, you can have superior control against any obstacles like bricks and other landscaping decors.
Cut Quality & Options
Featuring a 17-inch cutting width and cutting-height adjustment of one to three inches, this mower can give precise & customize cutting as required. A Winged blade system can chops away at a 30 percent higher rate, which is higher than any other mowers in its mower.
Also, thanks to this model as it comes with a bag to hold every debris into it and the bag offers an easy take on and off feature at your convenience.
Check also below additional features that we brought into consideration while placing this model on our list.
It can get started effortlessly, just push the start button; it will get started to run. Positioning a handy single lever on the back left of the wheel, this tool allows you to set six cutting heights conveniently; set your height, and go for mowing.
Speaking of run time, you are free from recharging the battery as it gets power through the cord. Just you might need an extension cord depending on the size of your area.
Last but not least, it weighs just 42 labs that can handle anybody without much effort.
- Quite maneuverable & lightweight
- Great on tall, thick grass
- Can cut at a 30 percent higher rate
- Easy push-button starting
- Unique, responsive steering handle & high-grip wheels
- Easy, one-lever height adjustment
- No mulching option
- Corded
Bottom Line
This corded mower can compete with gas- power, yet price almost half of the gas mower. For its sporty look, you will have no option but to love it at first sight. For sure, this model comes to you as one of the best mower electric mowers for the hills.
05. American Lawn Mower Company 50514 ( Best Budget Electric Model)
When you are running on a low budget, but still you want an excellent performer in a hilly region, American Lawn Mower Company 14 Inch can be your right choice.
The fact that this is the very budget pick of corded walk behind a push mower, but does not mean that it compromises with the quality and performance you need. Check the details of this mower to know why we have put this model in our top picks for you.
Cut Quality & Options
Having a powerful 11 Amp motor, this can run smoothly; no matter the path is on a dependable lawn or steep banks.
The American Lawn Mower electric corded push mower provides a clean, reliable cut every time with 14 inches, steel blade. 5-position easy-adjust cutting height options allow you to make customized cutting as you need.
This budget model includes a 2-In-1 rear discharge and mulching system. A hardtop 16 gal grass bag has been associated with this model having a grass level indicator to let the user know when the bag is full. This system comes to you for convenience and easy disposal.
This model is packed with “full of ease of operation.” Starting this mower is super easy, just push a button for instant start. There is an adjustable handle length for a customized fit for all users. Additionally, it is so light that even a petite woman can handle this mower comfortably.
Finally, a compact and slim frame with folding handles provides you secure storage.
One thing we should inform you that this model is not a rear-wheel drive, but still, we have picked this style onto our list as it can kick slopes in the rear, making withstand this terrain. A lot of genuine users spoke for this model as they did not find any issue with this model while tackling the hills.
- Very light that anybody can handle
- Inexpensive, Very good with hills
- Cuts perfectly even the tough grass
- Grass level indicator
- Not rear-wheel drive
Bottom Line
This is the best budget-friendly electric lawn mower for the hills, yet it has plenty of impressive features to meet your needs in the steep area. You don’t have to regret it if you invest in this model.
CORDLESS/ BATTERY MOWER
06. Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless 19-Inch Lawnmower
The Snapper XD 82V MAX comes to you to make you seriously impressed as it is considered as the best thing for shallow or steep areas from cordless mower type.
Coming as a package that includes power and flexibility, this model becomes very popular among the users. It is built to handle hills all over–whether they be shallow or steep. However, only being heavier is the main drawback.
Cut Quality & Options
First thing, you will be surprised to see the power of it. Thanks to this model, which is equipped with a huge 82V lithium-ion battery paired with a Briggs & Stratton motor to handle the hilly terrain comfortably. On top of that, being a self-propelled model, it can run on steep hills almost effortlessly.
The best part of this model is that the motor has been engineered with artificial intelligence (AI). This mechanism allows you more run time to handle larger yards.
For example, when it works on the low grass area, it does automatically change to lower rpm that prolongs the run time by saving power. On the other hand, when it is used in the overgrowth area, it engages more power as required.
The height positions of it are up to 7 options; each of them can be adjusted without any concern. The height positions of it are up to 7 options; each of them can be adjusted with a single lever without any fears.
It has a 21-inch deck made from steel that ensures durability against rough terrain. Also, you can cut the mulch, store it in the bag and discharge it later as you need.
With a push-button, starting has been super easy; just push the start button to get going without having to pull on a cord over and over.
- Performs like a gas-powered lawnmower
- The ability to sense the load amount allows the battery to last longer
- Excellent mulching capabilities
- A metal deck more durable
- This extra power and solid construction make it a bit pricey
- It’s a bit heavier
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a particularly cordless lawn mower that has satisfactory performance, maneuverability, and run-time, I would recommend you to go with the Snapper XD 82V MAX without hesitation.
Though you may find this model a little pricey, it’s totally worth it as it is built to last many years for you.
07. EGO Power+ 20-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Lawn Mower – Battery and Charger Not Included
When you are not taking the burden of maintenance, emission, and high noise of gas mower and when you are fed up with a corded mower that requires two or more extension cord to cover your area, then this Ego LM2001 can be the right choice for you as it comes with cordless but offers the performance like a gas-powered mower.
Cut Quality & Options
Ego Power+ 20 inch 56 Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Lawn Mower is the most advanced rechargeable mower on the market today for a small and medium-sized lawn. The 20″ blade of this electric lawnmower ensures that you don’t have to make pass several times on the same ground to get the optimum cut
Again, despite being an electric mower, it doesn’t sacrifice power or functionality. Let’s check out the details of it for your decision.
Powerful Motor
This is easy to decide Gas power mower while finding an excellent electric mower that carries gas-equivalent performance is even more robust. Thanks to this model, it is really exceptional. The Advanced arc-lithium 4 Ah 56 V battery gives the power to the high torque magnetic motor generates 600 Watts to be ready to compete with a gas mower.
The tremendous and signature part of this cordless mower is a 56-volt Lithium-ion battery that has been engineered for super-fast charging. Typically, it takes 2 hours or more to charge the Lithium-ion batteries, while this battery of this model takes only 30 minutes to be charged.
Moreover, a 56-volt Lithium-ion battery provides nearly 60 minutes of power to your mower in one charge while you can expect 45 minutes run-time from other models in its class.
Speaking of features 3-in-1 capabilities, this model features capabilities, meaning that it can bag, mulch, and discharge the grass clippings.
Another minor but amazing feature is LED work light that you may find useful for mowing even after sunset.
Storing with style is super handy. It can folds up in a few seconds and can be kept upright what will save your storing space significantly.
- Just 30 minutes of charging time and long battery life.
- Light and easy to maneuver around the lawn.
- It comes with bright LED lights for evening work.
- It makes 30% less noise.
- Compact & foldable design for easy storing
- 3-in-1 Electric Cordless mower (mulch, bag, and side-discharge).
- An impressive five years extended warranty
- Does not mulch well without stalling
- Batteries are expensive
Robotic Mower
08. Husqvarna 967622505, 430X Robotic Lawn Mower
A Robotic lawn mower occupies the significant position of my list, called the Husqvarna auto mower 430X. The reason robotic mowers have made their way on my list is that they’re great when it comes to hills. Robotic ones are probably the best lawn mower for hills.
GPS
However, coming to the mower, this model is dependent on GPS tracker technology. It uses this tech to map your lawn into its system and mow accordingly.
GPS also helps to track the mower’s movement and guide it towards uncovered areas. And there are that boundary guide wires that combine with GPS tracking to ensure the mower trims the needy areas of your lawn efficiently.
Coverage & Battery
This unit has a working area capacity of 0.8 acres or 34000 sqft. Most homeowners will find that to be more than enough. And this mower can handle steep slopes with an incline of 45%, which shows how much power it has underneath.
It runs on a Lithium-ion battery that typically takes about 65 minutes to charge fully. And it’s quite silent when it’s in operation, with the sound level Measured at 57 dB(A). You can set the mower to mow your lawn at night, and it won’t be disturbing anyone.
Smart Features
This Automower 430X is quite intelligent too. It can detect when it needs to recharge and docks itself into the charging station on its own.
The intuitive menu on the large, user-friendly display of the mower shows you a lot of data and gives you plenty of options that you can tweak. It tells you the hours and days the mower will maintain your lawn. It also allows personal settings for when you’d like the machine to mow.
Another highlighting feature of this robotic mower is that it has a waterproof design. Rain can not come into its way of cutting grass.
And the next design excellence of this mower is the buffer space in the front part of the unit that lessens shock damage to the unit’s internal working. These smart design features together to increase the lifespan of the Automower 430X robotic mower.
- Excellent cutting
- Pretty quiet
- GPS functionality
- Waterproof
- It does not include all the necessary kit
Bottom Line
The Husqvarna 430X is not the cheapest robotic mower out there, but it definitely is a worthy one for the money. Most of its owners are highly satisfied with its performance – thanks to excellent cutting and smart features. If you can afford it, there’s no reason why you’ll not buy it.
09. WORX WG794 Landroid Pre-Programmed Robotic Lawn Mower
If you don’t want to spend a fortune on a lawnmower, you should probably take a look at the WORX WG794 Landroid Pre-programmed robotic lawnmower.
The WORX WG794 is a compact and lightweight lawnmower that performs beyond the expectation you might make at first glance. This mower can cover lawns as large as 13,000 square feet.
Preliminary Set Up Works
However, as you have to with every quality robot mower, you have got some preliminary work to do – that is, you need to set up wire boundaries that determine the limits for the mower, and this can be a bit tricky.
If you put the boundaries right at the edges of the lawn, you may push the robot to get stuck on a fence or corner – so you should leave a little space that you can hand trim later.
However, this little annoyance is not the issue with only this mower. Rather it’s a common thing for every quality robotic lawnmower.
Battery & Run Time
The mower gets its power from a single 28-volt lithium-ion battery. It has a runtime of 45-60 minutes and quickly recharges itself within 45 minutes again. It returns to the base station by itself when it senses the low battery and gets ready to get back to work for another hour within 45 minutes.
AIA
A fantastic feature of the Landroid packs is the “AIA” (artificial intelligence algorithm). This cool technology makes the mower cut different areas of the lawn at random so that it can avoid pattern “cut-in.”
It also detects the height of the grass of different sections to automatically adjust the cutting height accordingly (within 1.6 to 4 inches), and also this tech drives the mower to base quickly when it starts raining. (though the Landroid does an excellent job on wet grass too)
This mower has a cutting deck of 9.5 inches in width, and it can handle 20 degrees (or 36%) slopes. It weighs 19 pounds, which makes it easily portable.
Safety & Security
It has several security features that I like. It needs a PIN that is required every time you start operation, so there’s no accidental start, or no kid can start it either.
You can safely move the easily-changeable cutting blades to different height positions, as well. And it’s quite straightforward to set up as well once the boundary lines have been taken care of.
However, this mower isn’t set up for zone cutting. It’ll try to churn right over anything that comes into its way – be that a piece of plastic or tree roots. You need to prepare the lawn carefully before you set it to cut.
- Safe and Secure
- Efficient cutting
- It makes smart moves with an artificial intelligence algorithm
- Good run-time and quick recharging.
- It doesn’t avoid distraction coming in the way.
Bottom Line
The WORX WG 794 is quite inexpensive when it comes to robotic lawnmowers yet delivers all the desired features. It’s a compact machine that many cherish. If you want to get a smart, small robotic mower that does its job very well without breaking the bank, this can be an excellent option for you.
10. Husqvarna YTA24V48 24V Fast Continuously Variable Transmission Pedal Tractor Mower
The Husqvarna YTA24V48 24V is a hardworking riding commercial lawn mower for hills with a Briggs & Stratton V-Twin Endurance Series 24-horsepower engine that can move the mower at 8 mph maximum.
There are features like a hydrostatic transmission with real-locking differential, a fuel tank of 4-gallon, electric cutting-blade adjustment and so many. It is a mower for homeowners who prefer power, durable engineering, style, and comfort.
Performance
The YTA24V48 24V comes with a large 48-inch powder-coated fabricated cutting deck that is backed by the powerful 24 Hp v-twin-engine, cuts like crazy. And does that quick as well – as fast as 8 mph.
If you’re living in a hilly area, you’ll love this machine as it can handle inclines with ease, thanks to those horsepowers. And some of the credit goes to the high-traction wheels as well that keeps the mower steady at uneven terrains.
Now it does not only go uphill with ease but also pulls a trailer too, and the credit goes to its locking differential transmission.
Operation
This monster machine can cover a lot of ground and complimenting that it comes with cruise control, which allows the rider to sit back and relax on a comfy and ergonomic seat with armrests.
Getting in and out is easy, and you’ll love the fact that it has a handy cup holder to store your favorite beverage, so you have something to support you in that heat.
The start-up is choked less, which makes it a cinch to turn the key and go, and you can see the fuel level on the go as well.
With the electric-blade engagement feature, you have to simply pull off a switch on the control panel to engage the blades. When you’re on the go, you’ll understand how the heavy-cast front axle makes your side better with superior balance and stability.
It doesn’t matter if you’re cutting 8-inch grass or dealing with swales, it’ll never stall or clog. And you won’t have to do second passes to cut grass or even 10-inches of height if you go slow on them. That shows how substantial power the monster possesses.
- A mighty machine, great on hills
- Cast-iron front axle
- Durable and wide 48-inch cutting deck
- Quiet engine, Cruise control, Fast CVT transmission
- Choke less star
- Tends to dig in the ground on uneven terrains
Bottom Line
The YTA24V48 24V is a monster of a garden tractor that comes with smart and convenient features as well.
It has plenty of power, starts up is choke less and fast with a key, comfortable enough, has tight steering radius, and you’ll immediately notice how solid the build of the mower is for the hills.
Things to Consider When Choosing Lawn Mower For Steep Hills
Mowing on hills is not easy to crack the nut; therefore, it requires a special kind of lawnmowers. The fact is that there are so many lawnmowers in the market, but all of them are not built to handle the steep hills.
For example, for an aged and physically week person, buying a push reel mower is not a good idea. It will need additional physical effort to run the mower on an uphill climb. Also, you should not go with front-wheel drive mowers as they are susceptible to toppling over.
However, we have accumulated the factors here for you to consider while you are going to buy the best lawn mower for hills.
Lawn Conditions
First thing, you need to consider the lawn condition where you will mow on. Check and note the slope angle and look for the mowers that can withstand this slope angle — a walk-behind powered mower with very low.
All lawn mower models cannot handle the slopes, especially which are more than 15 degrees.
A walk-behind powered mower with a very low center-of-gravity (CoG) is perfect for managing the slopes that are more than 15 degrees.
Keep an eye on trees and plants and their paths in between so that you can select the mower accordingly.
Rear Wheel Drive
When it comes to finding the right lawnmower for uneven terrain or slope, one of the first things you need to know about three main options of wheel drive method, which are rear, front, and all-wheel drive lawnmowers.
Rear-wheel drive is the best option among the three, as it provides better traction on hills, which is vital in case you lose control when mowing. Also, the traction makes it easier to mow a straight line resulting in a more precise cut on hills.
An additional fact is that bagging becomes easier as most of the weight is on the rear wheels.
With the front-wheel-drive lawnmowers, the result will be worst on hilly terrain. Also, there is a high risk of toppling over that can lead you to a big injury. So, don’t consider the front-wheel-drive lawn mower for the hills.
All-wheel drive mowers provide power to both the front and rear. As it comes with all the wheels are on the ground, it can distribute the force evenly on all four wheels. As a result, it gets excellent traction on both hilly and flat terrain, which makes mowing simpler. However, the price can an issue as this type of model tends to be costlier than the other two types.
Center of Gravity
In case of riding mowers, with rear-mounted engines are more suitable for uneven and hilly terrain as it provides low centers of gravity (CoG).
Mowers with front-mounted engines tend to have higher CoG that makes the mower unstable on a slope.
Size, quality, and Adjustability of the Deck
Cutting deck size plays an important role to determine how easily it can maneuver in a hilly area. The dimension between 42 and 54 inches would be ideal for mowing an open and large yard, while for a narrow path, a small size deck is perfect.
For narrow hills and slopes, something shorter is more suitable as it offers you better control and maneuverability.
However, the standard calculation is that a large deck can cover a large area in less time while small decks take more time.
Ease of Operation
When you are going to deal with the hills, it is essential to select that model that you can operate efficiently.
We noticed that a lot of buyers expressed their disappointment due to a complex operating system.
Therefore, before making a buying decision, you need to read reviews and learn more about how easy to start and the maneuverability. On top of that, look out for the model that has the easy features of assembly and parking and the cruise control that makes it convenient to operate the mower.
Also, be sure that the model should come straight to use even if you are a beginner.
Weight
Weight is something that you should take into consideration while buying a mower for the hills. A large walk behind mower is not a good idea as it could be very tiresome work to move up and down on the hilly terrain.
You should probably go with a lightweight lawn mower for more effortless mobility on steep hills, but the fact is that most of the lightweight doesn’t have much power to mow in steep hills efficiently. Therefore, it is important to ensure the right balance between weight and power to maximize performance.
Attachments
The attachment that includes bagging, mulching, and discharging can ensure a professional result after cutting. Bagging offers you to keep the clippings after cutting, be sure that the bag comes with quality material that provides durability. Check if your chosen mower the discharging feature, which will bring the clippings into the bag. Finally, mulching will cut your cutting into microscopic particles that can be used as fertilizer, eliminating further disposal.
Warranty
As a lawnmower is typically a fix-prone tool, on top of that you will deal with hilly areas, you need to look for something that offers decent durability assurances.
A reasonable warranty period will help you to be free from the anxiety of the damage that occurred during this time.
Be sure that you are getting at least a 2-year warranty, which is still good enough considering massive works on the steep hills.