The Rise of Stand On Mowers: Are They the Best Choice for UK Landscapers?

Introduction

For professional landscapers, efficiency, comfort, and precision are crucial when choosing the right mowing equipment. Stand on mowers are rapidly gaining popularity in the UK, offering a unique alternative to zero-turn and traditional ride-on mowers. But are they the right choice for your business? In this guide, we explore the history, benefits, and comparisons of stand on mowers, with a special focus on the Toro Grandstand, a leading option in this category.

A stand-on mower is a compact, high-manoeuvrability commercial mower where the operator stands instead of sitting, improving efficiency in tight spaces and frequent stop-and-go mowing scenarios.

The History of Stand On Mowers in the UK

While stand on mowers have been a staple in the US landscaping industry for years, they are a relatively newer addition to the UK market. Initially used by golf courses and commercial landscaping teams, stand on mowers have become more accessible for everyday landscapers looking to improve efficiency in urban and suburban environments.

The concept of the stand-on mower was pioneered by Bill Wright, an American landscaper and founder of Wright Manufacturing, in 1997. Frustrated with the inefficiencies of traditional ride-on mowers, Wright designed a machine that combined the maneuverability of a walk-behind mower with the speed of a zero-turn. This innovation quickly gained traction in the US, where professional landscapers valued its efficiency and compact design. Wright patented the stand-on mower concept, giving his company a competitive edge for years.

However, the UK was slower to adopt stand-on mowers, largely due to the dominance of traditional ride-on and zero-turn models. While some early adopters in the UK began using imported stand-on mowers, widespread availability was limited. As patents on the stand-on mower concept expired, other manufacturers were able to develop their own versions without infringing on Wright’s intellectual property.

One such company is Ariens, which introduced the ARROW range of stand-on zero-turn mowers in 2023. This marked a significant step in making this type of mower more accessible to commercial users in the UK. Ariens leveraged advancements in stand-on mower design while incorporating its own technology to create a competitive alternative to Wright’s original models.

Toro’s Entry into the UK Stand-On Mower Market

Another key player in the stand-on mower revolution is Toro, a well-established name in professional turf care equipment. Toro introduced its Grandstand series to the UK market, providing landscapers with a reliable, high-performance stand-on mower option. Toro’s entry into the market was driven by its reputation for producing durable and efficient mowing solutions, already well-respected in commercial landscaping and golf course maintenance. The Toro Grandstand was specifically designed to bridge the gap between zero-turn mowers and walk-behind options, offering improved visibility, better manoeuvrability, and enhanced productivity.

With the rise in demand for more efficient and ergonomic mowing solutions, Toro recognised the opportunity to bring its successful Grandstand models to UK landscapers, ensuring they had access to cutting-edge equipment that prioritised performance, durability, and operator comfort.

Stand On Mowers vs Zero Turn Mowers: Which is Right for You?

Stand on mowers are ideal for tight spaces, while zero-turn mowers excel in open areas. Stand on mowers offer better manoeuvrability and storage efficiency, whereas zero-turn models provide faster mowing speeds for large properties.

1. Maneuverability & Space Efficiency

• Stand on mowers are smaller and more compact, making them ideal for navigating tight spaces in housing estates, business parks, and sports fields.
• Zero-turn mowers offer excellent manoeuvrability but take up more trailer space and require larger turning areas.

2. Speed & Productivity

• Both stand on and zero-turn mowers are designed for speed, but stand on mowers allow operators to quickly step off when clearing debris or opening gates.
• Landscapers working on multiple small plots may find stand on mowers more time-efficient due to ease of mounting and dismounting.
• Zero-turn mowers, however, excel on large, open spaces, as they can cover more ground at high speeds without frequent stopping.

3. Operator Comfort & Fatigue

• Standing reduces lower back strain and allows operators to shift their weight dynamically.
• Sitting for long hours on zero-turn mowers can cause fatigue, especially on uneven terrain.
• Suspension seat technology in zero-turn mowers can reduce discomfort, making them a great option for landscapers who work on particularly bumpy terrain for extended periods.
• Stand on mowers allow more freedom of movement, which can help prevent stiffness and discomfort over long hours.

4. Precision & Control

• Stand on mowers provide better visibility of the cutting path, allowing for precise trimming around obstacles such as trees, fences, and garden beds.
• Zero-turn mowers, on the other hand, offer better control in wide, open spaces, making them ideal for large properties where precision isn’t as critical.

5. Storage & Transport

• Stand on mowers take up less space in vans and trailers, allowing landscapers to transport multiple pieces of equipment.
• Zero-turn mowers require larger transport setups and may not be ideal for landscapers with limited space.

Some zero-turn models come with foldable features, which can slightly reduce storage needs but still take up more room than a stand on mower.

Cost Comparison: Toro Grandstand vs Toro Zero Turn

For landscapers, cost is a significant factor when investing in mowing equipment. Here’s a basic comparison of the Toro Grandstand and a Toro Zero Turn mower:

Frequently Asked Questions