Don’t overlook weight when choosing the best leaf blower for you. Clearing leaves is physical work, and you’ll want to opt for a model you can easily handle. It boils down to a trade-off between power and weight — the more powerful models tend to be heavier.
If you’re worried about your leaf blower being unwieldy, go for an electric model, which tends to be more lightweight. Remember that the latest generations of gas leaf blowers are lighter than they used to be, so check the product descriptions.
Our round-up of the best leaf blowers includes models with various weights. The lightest option is the Black & Decker LB700, weighing only 4.4 lbs. The heaviest option is the Poulan Pro PPBV25, a weighty 17 lbs — a big difference. You’ll want to factor in how you’ll use your leaf blower and for how long. Opt for a size that you’re capable of maneuvering around your plot. Remember, too, that the heavier models tend to be more powerful so that they may clear leaves more quickly than a less powerful option, so you won’t have to carry them for as long.