An ordinary flat hoe - the only kind you see in most garden centers - is good for moving and smoothing soil. For weeding, though, the Hula Hoe (also called a stirrup hoe or scuffle hoe) is
Hula Hoe Item Details from Gardener's Supply Company:
Hula Hoe
SKU: 38-926
Description: An ordinary flat hoe - the only kind you see in most garden centers - is good for moving and smoothing soil. For weeding, though, the Hula Hoe (also called a stirrup hoe or scuffle hoe) is a far better tool for the job. The sharp steel blade skims horizontally below the soil surface, slicing through weed roots while leaving the soil in place. The blade is designed to have a little play in it - the famous "hula wiggle" - so that it cuts at the correct angle on both backward and forward strokes. Heat-treated, self-sharpening steel head; 4" opening 50" L wooden handle 57-1/2" L inches overall