My Costco hose is gray and it is full of kinks. I think I'll take it back and see what they say. I thought it was going to be the perfect long hose, but it seems to have taken a distinct dislike to me. The hose will wait till I get to the back of the garden to kink. No amount of coaxing will convince it to follow me with water. 'Glad I saw this thread. Back to Costco I go!!!