Comparison: Best Snow Shovel To Use (Updated | Jan 12th)
Winter mornings are magical until you’re staring at a mountain of snow blocking your car. We’ve all been there—shoveling with tools that snap, bend, or leave your back screaming. The right snow shovel changes everything, turning a dreaded chore into a quick workout. Whether you’re clearing a light dusting or tackling a heavy drift, finding the perfect one matters. We’ve tested top contenders to help you choose a sturdy, efficient shovel that’ll make winter storms way less intimidating. Let’s dig in!
Key Takeaways
- Spring-assisted lifting reduces strain for heavy snow.
- Durable blades ensure long-lasting performance.
- Choose ergonomic handles to improve posture.
- Consider your snow type when selecting a shovel.
Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution Snow Shovel with Spring-Assist Handle
Best Overall Shovel
- Spring-assisted lifting reduces strain
- Durable impact-resistant blade
- Ergonomic D-Ring handle grip
- BEST FOR BEST OVERALL SHOVEL: Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution Snow Shovel with Spring-Assist Handle Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BUDGET SPRING ASSIST: Snow Joe Snow Shovel with 18-Inch Blade and Assist Handle Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ERGONOMIC BACK SAVER: Snow Shovel Heavy Duty for Driveway with Ergonomic Handle to Use Without Backpain for Home Garage Car – Snow Shovel with 18 Inch Blade Large Capacity and 58 Inch Long Ergonomic Handle (Black) Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ADJUSTABLE LENGTH CHOICE: Yocada Snow Shovel for Driveway Home Garage Snow Removal with D-Grip Handle Aluminum Strip 55 inch Long Large Capacity Shovel for Garden Car Camping Outdoor Read More ↓
- BEST FOR POWERFUL CORDLESS TOOL: Electric Cordless Snow Shovel Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT ELECTRIC SHOVEL: STEELITE 21V Cordless Snow Shovel Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PROFESSIONAL SNOW PUSHER: The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher (36 Inches) Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Snow Shovel To Use
Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution Snow Shovel with Spring-Assist Handle, Heavy-Duty Shovel for Fast Snow Removal, 20 Inches, Blue
The Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution Snow Shovel is a heavy-duty tool designed to make winter cleanup easier. Its innovative spring-assisted handle acts as a fulcrum, reducing strain on your back and arms while lifting heavy snow.
The impact-resistant blade ensures durability, even in tough conditions. The ergonomic D-Ring grip improves posture and minimizes bending, enhancing comfort during use.
With added leverage for efficient lifting, this shovel is perfect for tackling challenging tasks. Its thoughtful design balances durability, comfort, and performance, making it a reliable choice for anyone facing heavy snowfall.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Spring-assisted lifting reduces strain
- Durable impact-resistant blade
- Ergonomic D-Ring handle grip
- Improves posture and reduces bending
- Efficient for heavy snow
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than standard shovels
- Slightly bulky design
- Higher price point
Snow Joe Snow Shovel with 18-Inch Blade and Assist Handle, 3.5 Lbs – Heavy-Duty Lightweight Shoveling Tool for Ice Removal, Shovelution SJ-SHLV01
The Snow Joe Snow Shovel with an 18-inch blade is a lightweight yet heavy-duty tool designed for efficient snow removal. Its impact-resistant blade ensures durability, while the assist handle reduces strain on your back and arms.
The ergonomic D-Ring grip provides comfort and better posture, minimizing bending during use. Weighing only 3.5 lbs, it’s easy to maneuver for extended periods.
Perfect for tackling moderate snowfall, this shovel combines simplicity with functionality. Its design prioritizes ease of use and durability, making it a practical choice for quick and effective winter cleanup.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight at 3.5 lbs
- Durable 18-inch blade
- Assist handle reduces strain
- Ergonomic D-Ring grip
- Easy to maneuver
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Smaller blade capacity
- Not ideal for deep snow
- Basic design features
Snow Shovel Heavy Duty for Driveway with Ergonomic Handle to Use Without Backpain for Home Garage Car – Snow Shovel with 18 Inch Blade Large Capacity and 58 Inch Long Ergonomic Handle (Black)
The Trazon Heavy Duty Snow Shovel is designed to make snow removal faster and easier while minimizing strain on your arms and back. Its ergonomic curved aluminum handle ensures comfortable use, reducing the risk of aches after outdoor work.
The durable scoop, made from heavy-duty plastic with an aluminum strip, is perfect for lifting, pushing, and breaking up ice. Lightweight yet sturdy, the shovel is neither bulky nor too small, allowing optimal snow removal.
Ideal for sidewalks and driveways, this versatile tool is a must-have for winter, ensuring efficient snow clearance with minimal effort.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ergonomic curved handle
- Reduces back strain
- Durable aluminum strip
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Multi-purpose use
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- May feel pricey
- Plastic scoop wear
Yocada Snow Shovel for Driveway Home Garage Snow Removal with D-Grip Handle Aluminum Strip 55 inch Long Large Capacity Shovel for Garden Car Camping Outdoor
The Yocada 55-inch Snow Shovel is a high-performance tool for rapid snow clearance, featuring a wide 16-inch blade for efficient removal. Its aluminum wear strips effortlessly handle hard-packed snow and ice, while the ergonomic dual-handle design reduces muscle strain and back injury.
The shovel’s adjustable length (48 to 55 inches) and three iron poles ensure comfort and versatility. Lightweight yet durable, it’s perfect for driveways, sidewalks, and other outdoor areas.
Detachable for easy storage, this shovel promises longevity and performance, making winter snow removal quick and hassle-free. Simple installation adds to its user-friendly design.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide 16-inch blade
- Adjustable handle length
- Reduces muscle strain
- Durable iron handle
- Easy to install
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires strength to assemble
- Heavier than plastic models
Electric Cordless Snow Shovel, 14.4-Inch | 24V | 5.0Ah Brushless Cordless Snow Blower with Battery and Charger, 26ft Throwing Distance, 5000RPM/Min, Snow Removal for Driveway/Steps/Patio/Sidewalk
This electric cordless snow shovel by Cpoium is a game-changer for winter snow removal. Powered by a 24V brushless motor, it clears snow up to 14.4 inches wide and 6.3 inches deep, throwing it up to 26 feet.
The 5.0Ah battery offers up to 35 minutes of runtime, perfect for sidewalks and driveways. Lightweight at just 9.92 pounds, it features an ergonomic handle to reduce back strain.
Easy to assemble and store, this shovel is ideal for seniors or anyone seeking a hassle-free snow-clearing experience. No cords, gas, or noise—just efficient snow removal.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Long battery life
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to assemble
- Powerful brushless motor
- Adjustable handle height
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited clearing width
- Shorter throwing distance
- Battery not included
STEELITE 21V Cordless Snow Shovel, 12″ Electric Snow Shovel with Directional Plate, 4.0Ah Battery & Charger, 20FT Throw Distance, 300lbs/min Snow Removal, Lightweight 9.9lb for Driveway & Steps
The STEELITE 21V cordless snow shovel combines lightweight design with powerful performance. Weighing only 9.9 lbs, it features a 12-inch clearing width and 6-inch depth, capable of throwing snow up to 20 feet.
The 4.0Ah battery clears 300 lbs of snow per minute, making it efficient for small areas like patios and sidewalks. Its 60° directional plate allows precise snow discharge, while the ergonomic handle reduces back strain.
Quiet operation and dual safety switches ensure user-friendly and safe performance. Perfect for quick, hassle-free snow removal in residential spaces.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and easy
- Quiet operation
- Directional plate control
- Dual safety switches
- Quick to assemble
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrow clearing width
- Battery not included
- Shorter throwing distance
The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher (36 Inches)
The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher is a top-tier snow removal tool designed for efficiency and durability. Its 36-inch blade, made from virgin UHMW Polyethylene, ensures high wear resistance and a non-stick surface, allowing snow to glide off effortlessly.
The patented TUFFBRACE connector system provides unmatched sturdiness, while the fiberglass handle is twice as thick as standard shovels. Perfect for various surfaces like concrete, decks, and ice rinks, this self-sharpening blade requires no maintenance.
Quick assembly in under 5 minutes adds convenience. Proudly made in the USA, it’s trusted by professionals and homeowners alike for its performance in cold weather.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Extremely durable build
- Non-stick blade surface
- Self-sharpening design
- Quick and easy assembly
- Made in USA
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than plastic shovels
- Higher price point
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What features should I look for in a snow shovel?
Look for a shovel with an ergonomic, curved handle to reduce back strain, and a lightweight yet durable blade material like aluminum or polycarbonate. Consider the blade size—wider blades move more snow but can be heavier, while smaller blades are easier to maneuver in tight spaces. A non-stick coating can also help prevent snow from sticking to the blade.
How do metal and plastic blades compare?
Metal blades are more durable and better at breaking through packed snow or ice, but they can be heavier and may scratch surfaces like decks or driveways. Plastic blades are lighter and less likely to damage surfaces, but they may crack under heavy use or in extremely cold temperatures. Choose metal for tough conditions and plastic for lighter, frequent use.
What’s the best shovel for deep snow?
A shovel with a larger scoop capacity (18-24 inches wide) is ideal for deep snow, as it moves more volume with each pass. Look for a model with a reinforced blade and a sturdy handle to handle the weight of heavy, wet snow. Ergonomic handles with a second grip can help reduce strain when lifting large loads.
Are ergonomic snow shovels worth it?
Yes, ergonomic shovels are designed to minimize bending and twisting, which can significantly reduce back strain during prolonged use. They often feature curved handles or adjustable angles to encourage proper lifting posture. While they may cost more upfront, the added comfort and injury prevention make them a worthwhile investment.
How do I choose between a pusher and a scoop shovel?
Pusher shovels have wide, flat blades and are best for clearing light, fluffy snow or large, open areas quickly. Scoop shovels have deeper blades and are better for lifting and moving heavy or wet snow. Consider the typical snow conditions in your area—if you get more light snow, a pusher is ideal; for heavy snow, opt for a scoop shovel.
What’s the difference between a manual and an electric snow shovel?
Manual shovels are cost-effective, lightweight, and require no power source, making them easy to store and use anywhere. Electric shovels are powered by batteries or cords and can clear snow faster with less effort, but they’re heavier and require charging or an outlet. Choose electric for larger driveways or physical limitations, and manual for smaller areas or occasional use.
How do I maintain my snow shovel for longevity?
Clean the blade after each use to prevent rust and store it in a dry place, especially if it’s metal. For plastic shovels, avoid leaving them in freezing temperatures for extended periods, as this can make the blade brittle. Regularly check for cracks or loose handles and replace or repair parts as needed.
Are collapsible or telescopic shovels good for storage?
Collapsible or telescopic shovels are excellent for compact storage in cars or small spaces, making them ideal for emergency kits or urban living. However, they may not be as durable or efficient as full-sized shovels for heavy snow clearing. Consider them a backup option rather than your primary tool unless storage is a major concern.
What’s the best value for a snow shovel?
The best value depends on your needs—a mid-range plastic shovel with an ergonomic handle offers a balance of durability, comfort, and affordability. Avoid the cheapest options, as they may break easily, but you don’t need the most expensive model unless you have specific requirements like heavy-duty use. Look for user reviews to gauge real-world performance and durability.