Here Are the Best Snow Shovels to Haul Snow Safely and Efficiently

What to Look for in a Snow Shovel

Snow Shovel Types

There are three main types of snow shovels, and understanding the differences between them can make it easier to decide on the best tool to keep your driveway and walk clear.

Traditional snow shovels typically have a long, straight shaft made of wood or plastic. The blade is rectangular with a shallow slope to help the shovel extend underneath the layers of snow. Blades on traditional snow shovels are more commonly made of plastic, though they can also be made out of metal.

Push snow shovels are not made for lifting and throwing the snow, but for pushing the snow. Use these shovels for removing large quantities of light snow in a hurry. They are best for clearing driveways and walkways, though push shovels can be difficult to use with heavy packing snow or frozen snow.

Combination snow shovels are made for pushing, lifting, and throwing the snow, so you can expect the blades on these shovels to be wider and more curved than a traditional shovel blade. If you only want one shovel in your garage, shed, or sitting on your front porch waiting for the next snowfall, then it's a good idea to get a combination snow shovel.

Blade Design

The blade on a snow shovel is the part used for pushing, lifting, and throwing the snow. It's designed with a curve that allows the edge of the shovel to slide under the snow. The shape also helps to collect the snow and prevent it from falling off the shovel while you push, lift, or throw the snow. Typically, the snow shovel blade ranges in width from about 12 to 30 inches.

Smaller blades are best for quickly scooping and tossing snow off to the side, making them ideal for shoveling narrow walkways and paths. Larger blades are better for pushing large amounts of snow across a flat surface, like a driveway or a deck. Combination snow shovels usually have a broad blade with a deep curve, so that the shovel can push large quantities of snow and also be used to lift and toss the snow.

Shaft Type

The type of shaft should also be considered when you are looking for a new snow shovel. Straight shafts help to give the user the best hand position for lifting, carrying, and throwing snow. They are also effective for chopping thin ice and clearing frozen snow.

Curved shafts are better for pushing snow. The curved design is made to improve user control and also reduce the stress on the lower back when you are pushing a heavy load of snow. Ideally, you won't need to bend over as much, allowing your legs, arms, and the rest of your body to work, instead of your back. This type of shaft isn't great for lifting or throwing snow, though.

Blade Material

The blade on a shovel can be made out of several different materials, including steel, aluminum, and plastic.

Steel is typically the most durable choice for a shovel blade because it is effective at chipping hard ice or packed snow or lifting heavy, wet snow without bending or breaking.

Aluminum blades are a great, lightweight choice, but don't expect them to have the same durability as the steel blades. Avoid using aluminum snow shovel blades for chopping ice or hard packed snow.

Plastic snow shovel blades are the most commonly used because they are inexpensive and lightweight. Plastic won't bend or warp in most cases, though these blades are prone to chipping and cracking.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Additional reporting and research for this article was done by Timothy Dale, a long-time home improvement expert specializing in plumbing, construction, and product recommendations, among other topics.