The hoses are micro-perforated so they disperse water more evenly. They are protected by a sleeve of tough poly fabric, so they don't get clogged and are protected from sharp implements. They lay flat when not in use so they don't get crushed. But most importantly: they are much, much..much easier to put together than drip tape or line. They can be easily mended with 1/2" hose menders (and actually seal as opposed to drip, which never goes together without leaks). The downside is that it's hard to carry pressure over a distance, and only a couple may be run at once, otherwise they won't soak effectively. This problem may be solved by using 3/4" or 1" hose as the supply line, along side gravity (a long steady drop like a hill). I suppose a pump might work, but it may not be worth it to buy maintain. considering the fact they are considerably more expensive than drip irrigation.
I am very thankful to others who wrote reviews on these soaker hoses. Have bought others in past at stores and never worked. These are great and plants are happy. They were sent speedily and appreciate the fast service.
easy to lay out, easy to take up, easy to store, easy to use!
I have grow flowers in a nursery setting for over 30 years and have bought "tons" of soaker hose. None made it past a year's use. Then I found Melnor flat soak hoses and on average can get about 3 years of use. No comparison.
Can be join hoses sequentially end-to-end. Durable construction and easy to lay straight along beds.