7 Best Air Hose Reels to Keep Your Hose Neatly Stored

If you regularly use an air compressor and don’t have a decent air hose reel yet, you are definitely missing out on something. Of course, you can always roll back that hose on that old rim bolted to the wall in-between jobs and some could argue that a recoil air hose would solve that problem, but, both have significant drawbacks (and I just hate springy hoses but more on that later lol).

On the other hand, an air hose reel brings many benefits, with the first and most important being, of course, safety. A loose air hose running all over your workspace is always a disaster waiting to happen. Anyone can trip over it and end up potentially injuring themselves in a room full of sharp objects—not to mention that driving over a hose is always a bad idea. Luckily, air hose reels are here to save the day! As soon as you are done using it, the self-retracting feature will roll back the hose and store it safely. In addition to preventing potential accidents, using a good air hose reel also limits daily wear and tear, significantly increasing its service life.

The only problem? A quick glance online may overwhelm you with just the sheer number of options available. To help you find the right one based on your specific needs and budget, we have curated and reviewed 7 of the best air hose reels we could find (plus a couple of tips and things to consider when buying one).

As usual, I’d like to point out that this list is very subjective and based solely on my own experience in various repair shops over the last 15 years. In no way am I trying to say that there are no other valid options out there, but those are the ones that I know are worth the money—simple as that. If you are using a different model and think it’s good enough to make the list, drop me a line below and I’ll make sure to add it to the list.

And without further ado, let’s see what we got!

Best Air Hose Reel Reviews

1. Giraffe TA15B Retractable Air Hose Reel — Budget Pick

The Giraffe TA15B is a retractable air hose reel that uses a 50′ long hybrid polymer air hose good enough to withstand up to 300 PSI. The high-quality air hose is coiled up in a robust steel hose reel housing a fully enclosed spring motor. Such a setup prevents dust and dirt from entering, and thus damaging the unit, significantly increasing durability. And to make sure it looks good for as long as it lasts, the frame is powder-coated to keep corrosion and surface rust at bay. The bright orange hose is also a neat addition, providing optimum visibility even in low-lit conditions—you might need to clean it regularly so it stays that way, though.

Attached to the mainframe is a reinforced steel guide arm that can be adjusted to three different positions. Consequently, you can choose to install it on the wall, ceiling, or even on the floor (not sure why you would do that, but just in case, you can).

Still, it’s important to mention that Giraffe’s model features a clever two-part locking system, but it may take a little getting used to. However, once you are familiar with the system, it proves extremely useful for quick and efficient use.

The Giraffe TA15B retractable hose reel is the perfect budget model for occasional users. In short, it does what it’s supposed to do, will do it for years, and won’t break the bank. That being said, if you work 40 hours a week in your garage, there are better options below.

Highlighted features

• 3/8” X 50’ hybrid hose
• Reel dimensions: 14.25” X 12.59” X 5.11”
• 300 PSI maximum working pressure
• ¼” NPT air outlet
• Steel construction with solid brass fittings

Pros

• Rugged and heavy-duty steel frame
• Three-point adjustment for guide arm
• Extremely easy to install
• Budget option
• Perfect for novice mechanics
• Two-part locking feature
• Two years manufacturer’s limited warranty

Cons

• Not for heavy-duty use

2. Flexzilla L8250FZ Retractable Enclosed Plastic Air Hose Reel

The Flexzilla L8250FZ is another excellent option in the budget category. It is quite similar to the previous model apart from one significant difference; the Flexzilla offers a fully-enclosed reel body (instead of just the spring), making it suitable even for outdoor use. The UV stabilized polypropylene outer enclosure will keep the hose reel safe from the exterior elements.

Moreover, the L8250FZ comes with Flexzilla’s 3/8”, 50’ long premium hybrid air hose designed to provide optimum flexibility at all times. Since this air hose reel is also designed for outdoor use, the hose’s material is optimized to work flawlessly, even in really, really cold conditions.

Put simply, if you fancy having a hose real in your driveway, right outside the shop, or in an unheated garage, this is the one. Oh, and it also comes with a swivel bracket that automatically points the reel in your direction—I have to admit that I never quite understood what difference such a bracket makes since hoses are flexible but that’s that.

Highlighted features

• 3/8” X 50’ hybrid hose
• Reel dimensions: 16” X 8” X 15”
• 150 PSI maximum working pressure
• ¼” NPT air outlet
• UV stabilized polypropylene construction with aluminum fittings

Pros

• Fully-enclosed reel protects from outside elements
• Swivel mounting bracket for added convenience
• Suitable for outdoor use
• Neon green air hose for optimum visibility
• Flexible and weather-resistant air hose
• Two years manufacturer’s limited warranty

Cons

• The plastic construction may not be as strong as steel
• No guide arm adjustment feature

3. Goodyear L815153G Air Hose Reel Retractable — Editor’s Pick

Yep, Goodyear makes more than tires. The American brand also manufactures high-quality pneumatic accessories, and the L815153G air hose reel proves just that. It is another retractable model that uses your standard 3/8”, 50’ long commercial SBR rubber air hose rated to work efficiently at air pressures up to 300 PSI (that’s pretty much a standard in the industry so most manufacturers do). Still, Goodyear knows a thing or two about rubber so you know it went for a highly durable rubber polymer hose, resistant to severe temperatures, oil, water, and heat.

However, something far from common is the hose’s ability to be compatible even with water and select water-based fluids. So, the next time your garden hose starts leaking, you can just use your Goodyear L815153G hose reel (honestly, that’s another feature I don’t totally understand but that might be useful for someone, who knows?). And that’s not all; you get a heavy gauge industrial steel frame along with a corrosion-resistant powder coating finish in the traditional Goodyear blue and yellow color scheme. No need to mention that it would look quite nice in pretty much any garage—not that I don’t like the previous one’s neon green, but you know, this is a little more “classic.”

Furthermore, for just a few extra bucks over the previous models, you can get a high-quality air hose reel capable of withstanding heavy-duty commercial use. Add suitability to use with water to the equation, and the Goodyear L815153G seems like the best all-around air hose reel.

And it looks dope, which is not to neglect—not everything needs to be a reasonable decision, right?

Highlighted features

• 3/8” X 50’ Styrene-Butadiene polymer hose
• Reel dimensions: 19” X 7.9” X 21”
• 300 PSI maximum working pressure
• ¼” NPT air outlet
• Industrial-grade steel construction

Pros

• Corrosion-resistant powder coating finish
• High value for money
• Highly durable air hose
• Air hose resistant to oil, water, dust, abrasion, and extreme weather conditions
• Locking mechanism works incredibly well
• Adjustable guide arm for optimum support
• Can be used with water and other water-based fluids

Cons

• None—when it works, it works

4. Lincoln 83753 Value Series Air and Water Retractable Hose Reels — Old-school Model

With the 83753 Value Series air hose reel, Lincoln has closely followed the famous expression “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” The result is a time-tested air hose reel design that has proven to work flawlessly for decades. In fact, it’s the exact same reel I used when I started working in a super old repair shop (it was an awesome place to work but the garage was definitely outdated). It used to belong to the grandfather of a friend who had run the place since World War 2 or something, until a couple of years earlier when we took over. Of course, I’m not saying the reel had been installed back then but most of the equipment was dating from the 60s or 70s—you know, when they still made stuff that lasted. And yes, this reel was a bit rusty by then but it still worked!

But I digress.

The Lincoln reel boasts one of the most simplistic and straightforward architectures available today, with little to no implementation of any extra features found in other models—but of course, fewer bells and whistles also mean fewer risks of something breaking at some point.

But no extra features doesn’t mean it’s not competent. The 83753 uses a spring-powered automatic eight-position ratchet gearing designed to lock the hose at any desired length. You get the main steel body, 50′ of 3/8″ water & air hose, and an adjustable guide arm with five possible positions and a slotted base to suit different mounting configurations and virtually any orientation.

If you are the type of person to gaze at random objects in your daily life and think to yourself, “they don’t make ’em like they used to anymore,” the Lincoln 83753 Value Series air hose reel is the right choice for you. It combines the simplicity of a bygone era with today’s usability—what’s not to like?

Highlighted features

• 3/8” X 50’ rubber hose
• Reel dimensions: 20.25” X 9” X 21.75”
• 300 PSI maximum working pressure
• ¼” NPT air outlet
• All-steel construction

Pros

• Classic and time-tested design
• Five-position adjustable guide arm
• Slotted base for easy installation
• Sophisticated locking mechanism
• Durable construction
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• Does not come with a lead-in hose

5. DeWalt DXCM024-0343 Double Arm Hose Reel

When it comes to power tools and hand tools, DeWalt’s reputation is already well-established. It provides high-quality equipment and incorporates the latest technology to provide user-friendly and reliable tooling, and the DXCM0240343 air hose reel is no exception. It is an auto-retracting air hose reel with rugged double-arm construction for optimum strength and durability. And thanks to the all-steel heavy-duty construction, DeWalt’s air hose reel is more than ready for commercial applications as well.

Still, this reel’s most innovative feature is its self-leveling system spreading the hose evenly while retracting it—if you like to go fast, this one’s for you. No need to hold the hose as you spin it back to prevent it from jamming, a pretty neat feature if you ask me.

And since Dewalt is specialized in construction equipment, the bright yellow 3/8″ x 50′ hose is made from flexible and temperature-resistant premium rubber, making sure it stays flexible even in freezing weather. The premium rubber material is also designed to handle up to 300 PSI, more than enough for most automotive applications (I honestly doubt you’ll ever run your impact wrench that high. It would be a really bad idea anyway).

Of course, Dewalt’s bright yellow might not be for everyone (yellow tools look better on a job site if you ask me). Still, how selfish of me it would be to not think about all of you a little more wood-oriented than I am (I’m really a metal guy here). Dewalt’s hose reel is incredibly well made so it wouldn’t have been right to leave it out just because of the color.

Highlighted features

• Uses 3/8” X 50’ rubber hose
• Reel dimensions: 19.3” X 8.3” X 19”
• 300 PSI maximum working pressure
• ¼” NPT air outlet
• All-steel construction

Pros

• High-visibility yellow air hose
• Reasonably priced
• Clever self-leveling feature
• All-weather usability
• 12-position locking mechanism
• One-year limited warranty

Cons

• Yellow color brings a “construction” vibe but if it’s your thing…

6. ReelWorks L201303A Air Compressor Hose Reel — Manual Model

The ReelWorks L201303A is a tad bit different from the models we have seen so far. While other air hose reels in the list are auto-retracting, the L201303A is a manual air hose reel operated using the attached hand crank lever. Not much to say here; it’s pretty straightforward. Simply pull on the hose to get the required hose length and then use the spring-loaded locking pin to lock the reel in place. Once your task is complete, unlock the pin and use the lever to retract the air hose—as simple as it sounds.

The ReelWorks L201303A air hose reel is perfect for those who already have an air hose and only need a new reel drum—it doesn’t come with one so you also get the option to choose the exact air hose you want instead of getting stuck with whatever was included by the manufacturer. Of course, using a hand crank lever may not be the most efficient way of operating an air hose reel, but it exists, it’s actually pretty good and some people might prefer a manual option—I don’t judge. If it’s your case, this is probably your best bet.

Highlighted features

• Designed for 3/8” X 100’ air hose
• Reel dimensions: 15” X 11” X 13”
• 300 PSI maximum working pressure
• ¼” NPT air outlet
• Steel construction

Pros

• Sturdy and long-lasting reel body
• Easy-to-use locking pin mechanism
• Attractive shiny black finish
• Corrosion-resistant powder coating
• Leak-proof solid brass swivel fittings
• High value for money

Cons

• Does not come with an air hose—but that might be a pro depending on personal preference

7. GOODYEAR 28287303G Air-Hose-Reel Retractable — Premium Pick

The Goodyear 28287303G makes all other air hose reels look futile in comparison. It is a “Quad Pod” retractable air hose reel capable of accommodating a 3/8” diameter air hose measuring a whopping 100’ in length. To put this into perspective, this air hose is slightly longer than the distance between two baseball bases. All this extra length allows you to access areas beyond your immediate surroundings, effectively doubling your workable radius compared to previous models.

Storing this massive air hose falls into the hands of a construction-grade steel pod. The “Quad Pod,” as Goodyear likes to call it, has been heat-treated for exceptional strength before being sprayed with a thick powder coating finish with corrosion-resistant properties. Moreover, the ratcheting mechanism will lock the hose at any desired length for your convenience.

The Goodyear 28287303G air hose reel is suitable for use in most professional environments like a small repair shop, garage, and even service centers. Its extremely tough steel body and reliable ratcheting mechanism are built to handle continuous use for years to come.

However, it’s important to mention that this one cannot be wall-mounted. It’s basically meant to be left on the floor and moved around as needed. It’s incredibly well built and easy to use. Still, it’s significantly more expensive and might be a bit much for a home garage. After all, 100 ft. is probably a lot longer than your whole driveway. Watch out, your neighbor might start asking to borrow your hose!

Nonetheless, if you need a better real than most, that will last longer than most and equipped with a longer hose than most, this is the one!

Highlighted features

• 3/8” X 100’ premium commercial flex polymer hose
• Reel dimensions: 16” X 15” X 16”
• 300 PSI maximum working pressure
• ¼” NPT air outlet
• Heavy-gauge steel construction

Pros

• Innovative Quad Pod design
• Rubber feet for optimum traction
• Extra-long air hose
• Suitable for air and water-based fluids
• Solid brass swivel joint prevents leaks
• Clever ratcheting mechanism

Cons

• Might be a bit much for weekend DIY’ers

---

---

What to Consider When Buying an Air Hose Reel

Air hose quality

A good air hose reel is only complete with an equally good air hose. Make sure you buy an air hose reel with a flexible, temperature & wear-resistant, and long-lasting air hose. Most models included in our list come with polymer-based hoses, which, in most cases, satisfy all requirements. However, you can also get air hoses made from rubber, nylon, or even a mix of several materials. Out of these, hybrid hoses are considered the best ones since the inclusion of various materials adds several good qualities. But of course, they are also more expensive.

Whatever you do, stay away from cheap plastic-like ones. They crack when it’s cold, dry out when it’s hot—just don’t waste money on that.

Air hose dimensions

In addition to the hose’s quality, its dimensions also require special considerations. A few critical parameters to keep in mind here; ensure the air hose is long enough to cover the entirety of your working area. As a buffer, we recommend getting a hose slightly longer than the furthest distance from the mounting point, just in case.

Of course, I say that even though most of the hose reels discussed above come with a 50′ long hose, aside from the last one, which is double that. I just didn’t select anything shorter than 50′ because 1- if it’s only 20′ long, you can easily roll it by hand, and 2- anything below 50′ will just end up being too short at some point. Trust me, you need at least 50′.

Construction material

Air hose reels are meant to last long, and that can only be possible when they are correctly built using high-quality materials. Nearly all air hose reels included in the list above come with a steel frame, so you don’t necessarily need to worry about strength here.

You might want to be extra careful with plastic ones, though.

Mode of operation

Generally speaking, there are two types of air hose reels based on their mode of operation; there are the familiar, industry-standard auto-retracting models and your old-school hand-crank-operated ones. Retractable air hose reels are preferred for obvious reasons, but a manual one will virtually never break—your pick!

Mounting options

You can’t use an air hose reel before first mounting it to any flat surface in your garage or workspace (aside from the last one). Look for models with flexible mounting options, including the ceiling, wall, or even floor. Even if you don’t need the options right now, keeping the future in mind—you never know.

Locking mechanism

When using a retractable air hose reel, its locking mechanism is probably the most important component as it provides the required hose length while reducing slack, and it’s also the only real “component” besides the frame. If the spring unit doesn’t work, well the whole thing doesn’t work. It’s also important to keep in mind that a malfunctioning locking mechanism is extremely dangerous as the spring-loaded unit can suddenly retract while you are using the tool. Ever seen an air ratchet flying? You get my point.

FAQs

Does using a long air hose affect air pressure?

Yes! When compressed air flows through a hose, it is faced with resistance by factors like the atmospheric air already present inside the hose and the hose material. These resistances slow down the flowing compressed air at the edges, resulting in turbulence inside the hose.

Although the created turbulence is negligible over short lengths, it can cause a significant pressure drop in extra-long air hoses like those used in hose reels. So, make sure you adjust your air compressor accordingly to get the required air pressure at the air hose outlet.

Still, if your air compressor has a hard time building up the pressure, you probably need a bigger compressor and not a shorter hose.

Read more: 6 Best Air Compressors for Impact Wrenches

Where is the best place to mount an air hose reel?

There is no correct answer to this question, as the best place to mount an air hose reel depends on your work environment and personal preferences. Most air hose reels provide three mounting options; ceiling, floor, or wall.  If your workspace is busy with loads of people moving around, wall or ceiling mounting is the way to go since there is little to no slack hose for others to trip over. Conversely, if you work in a large open space, floor-mounted air hose reels are preferable to utilize the entire hose length efficiently.

Not sure? Go for a wall mount—simpler to install and works better in most situations.

Are auto-retracting mechanisms reliable?

While no one can guarantee complete safety, we can reassure you by stating most reputed manufacturers perform extensive tests on all critical mechanisms and components. So, don’t select an air hose reel only based on the cost and invest in a high-quality product instead. Tools are already expensive enough, don’t let a cheap reel drop them on the floor more often than you already do.

Verdict

A good air hose reel is necessary for every garage, and I hope this article will help you make an informed decision. Unfortunately, there is no clear winner here as everyone has different needs and budgets, and each air hose reel included in our list serves a specific purpose.

Nonetheless, if I had to pick only one, I personally think the Goodyear L815153G is the best air hose reel overall. With the rugged all-steel frame and premium rubber hose, it offers incredible value for money. It’s good, it works well, and won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

On the other hand, if you want an air hose reel that will make even your brother-in-law (or coworker) who claims to always have everything better than anyone jealous, go for the Goodyear 28287303G—they don’t really make better than that.

Not so keen on shelling out the big bucks and just need a reel that does the job? The Giraffe TA15B is what you need. It’s clearly not as pompous as the previous one but it’s incredibly cheap and does everything a hose reel should do.