Comparison: Best Snow Shovel Width (Updated | Jan 12th)
Winter mornings are magical—until you’re staring at a snow-covered driveway and dreading the shoveling ahead. The right shovel width can make the job a breeze or a back-breaking chore. Too narrow, and you’ll be at it all day; too wide, and you’ll strain to lift heavy loads. In this guide, we’ll break down the best snow shovel widths for different needs, from quick walkway clearing to heavy-duty driveway work, so you can conquer winter with confidence and ease.
Key Takeaways
- A 38-inch blade excels in clearing snow efficiently without bending.
- Opt for wider blades for quicker snow removal in large areas.
- Durable materials ensure long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- Choose a shovel with ergonomic features to reduce back strain.
38 Inch Snow Shovel for Driveway
Back-Saving Wide Plow
- Wide 38-inch blade
- No bending required
- Durable materials
- BEST FOR BACK-SAVING WIDE PLOW: 38 Inch Snow Shovel for Driveway Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ERGONOMIC LEVER LIFTER: Snow Joe Snow Shovel with 18-Inch Blade and Assist Handle Read More ↓
- BEST FOR DURABLE POLY PUSHER: Bully Tools Poly Snow Pusher – Heavy Duty Snow Shovel with Fiberglass Handle and D-Shaped Grip Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ADJUSTABLE STEEL BLADE: Best Choice Products 36in Galvanized Blade Heavy-Duty 2-Wheel Snow Pusher Hand Plow for Snow Removal w/Wheels Read More ↓
- BEST FOR CORDLESS ELECTRIC THROWER: Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ERGONOMIC SENIOR CHOICE: YEITSNOW Snow Shovel for Driveway Ergonomic Design 17” Reinforced Heavy Duty Snow Removal Easy Assembled Tool in Winter Snowy Day for Garage Car Parking Port Workshop Barn Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ADJUSTABLE LENGTH SCOOP: 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 PRECISION DIRECTIONAL THROW: STEELITE 21V Cordless Snow Shovel Read More ↓
- BEST FOR HIGH-POWER CORDED THROWER: Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded 12Amp Snow Shovel Read More ↓
- BEST FOR DUAL-BATTERY CORDLESS BEAST: Electric Cordless Snow Shovel Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Snow Shovel Width
38 Inch Snow Shovel for Driveway, Brewin SnowPro Bi-Direction Heavy Duty Snow Pusher with Wheels and Angled Blade for Efficient Snow Removal, Back Saver Snow Plow for Doorway Sidewalk
The Brewin SnowPro Bi-Direction Heavy Duty Snow Pusher is designed for efficient snow removal with its ultra-wide 38-inch blade and large wheels. The durable Polycarbonate and ABS composite construction ensures toughness and wear resistance, even in extreme cold.
Its unique flip function allows continuous plowing in one direction, reducing the need for U-turns. The adjustable handle accommodates any height, promoting an upright posture to minimize back strain.
Ideal for driveways and sidewalks, this shovel combines efficiency with ergonomic design. Assembly is quick, taking under 10 minutes.
Backed by a 1-year warranty, it’s a reliable choice for snowy winters.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide 38-inch blade
- No bending required
- Durable materials
- Quick assembly
- Flip function efficiency
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than manual shovels
- 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 for winter tasks. Its impact-resistant blade ensures durability, while the ergonomic D-Ring handle grip improves posture and reduces bending.
The spring-assisted design acts as a fulcrum, enhancing mechanics and minimizing strain on your back and arms. This shovel provides added leverage for lifting heavier loads with less effort.
Weighing just 3.5 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver. Perfect for residential use, it combines comfort, durability, and efficiency, making snow removal simpler and more effective during the winter season.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight at 3.5 lbs
- Ergonomic D-Ring handle
- Spring-assisted leverage
- Impact-resistant blade
- Reduces back strain
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrower blade width
- Less durable than metal
Bully Tools Poly Snow Pusher – Heavy Duty Snow Shovel with Fiberglass Handle and D-Shaped Grip, Wide Plow for Removal, Winter Scoop for Driveway, Walkway & Deck – 27″ Poly Scoop, 100% Made in The USA
- 100% MADE IN THE USA – Proudly crafted in the USA, this durable Poly Snow Pusher is built for tough snow removal tasks. The robust construction ensures excellent performance for both residential and professional use.
- HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION – Constructed with premium, lightweight polypropylene for consistent performance. The 27″ wide pusher head and 57″ total length are designed to tackle heavy snow, ice, and even wet leaves effortlessly.
- LONG-LASTING DESIGN – Featuring an ultra-thick, coated scoop edge that resists wear, removing the need for metal wear strips. The ergonomic handle offers improved leverage while minimizing strain, making snow removal effortless.
- RUGGED FIBERGLASS HANDLE – Built with a fiberglass handle for enhanced strength, coated with a polyester veil to stop splintering. This design ensures lasting durability while keeping the tool lightweight for easy handling.
- ERGONOMIC D-GRIP – The D-shaped, no-slip polypropylene grip is designed for added leverage and stability, reducing hand fatigue. It’s wide enough to fit comfortably with gloves, ensuring a secure hold during snow clearing.
Best Choice Products 36in Galvanized Blade Heavy-Duty 2-Wheel Snow Pusher Hand Plow for Snow Removal w/Wheels, Adjustable Handle, Blade Angle – Black
- GALVANIZED STEEL BLADE: A solid steel construction provides lasting durability and strength, the perfect tool to help overcome the harsh winter months and manage heavy snowfall
- RELIABLE SNOW REMOVAL: A 36-inch wide blade with smooth-rolling wheels makes clearing your driveway, walkway, or sidewalks a breeze!
- ADJUSTABLE BLADE ANGLE: Slide and secure the guide rail to lock the blade into the ideal place to gather and deposit snow at numerous depths and coverage efficiently
- HEIGHT-ADAPTIVE HANDLES: Find the ideal height for maximum control and comfort; then, when the season is done, lock the handles upright for quick and easy storage
- REFLECTIVE TAPE INCLUDED: Visibility is key when the weather is difficult; vibrant, highly reflective add-ons will help the user be seen during early morning or other low-light conditions; PLOW BLADE DIMENSIONS: 36″(W) x 10″(H); HANDLE HEIGHT: 33.5-51″(H)
Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel, Brushless Motor, 16-Inch width, 300lbs/Minute (Battery and Charger Included)
The Earthwise SN74016 40-Volt Cordless Electric Snow Shovel is a powerful and efficient tool designed for easy snow removal. With a 16-inch clearing width and 8-inch depth, it handles snow up to 300 pounds per minute, throwing it up to 32 feet away.
The quiet 40V brushless motor ensures reliability, while the ergonomic handle and 6-inch rear wheels provide comfort and maneuverability. Its 180-degree rotating chute allows precise snow placement.
Perfect for driveways and walkways, this battery-operated snow shovel eliminates the hassle of gas and cords, making winter cleanup quick and effortless.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cordless convenience
- Powerful brushless motor
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy maneuverability
- Quiet operation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited battery life
- Not for heavy snow
YEITSNOW Snow Shovel for Driveway Ergonomic Design 17” Reinforced Heavy Duty Snow Removal Easy Assembled Tool in Winter Snowy Day for Garage Car Parking Port Workshop Barn
The YEITSNOW Snow Shovel features an ergonomic Z-shaped handle that minimizes back strain, allowing for comfortable, upright shoveling—perfect for seniors. Its 17-inch wide scoop, made from durable poly with an aluminum wear stripe, ensures efficient snow removal.
The reinforced steel handle offers superior strength, supporting up to 124 pounds, 40% more than previous models. Lightweight yet sturdy, this shovel reduces fatigue during use.
It comes with a quick three-step assembly and is rigorously inspected for quality. Ideal for driveways, this heavy-duty shovel combines durability, comfort, and performance for effortless snow clearing.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ergonomic back-saving design
- Lightweight and durable
- High load capacity
- Easy assembly
- Senior-friendly
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited snow capacity
- Requires manual effort
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 Snow Shovel features a 16-inch wide blade, perfect for quickly clearing driveways and sidewalks. Its aluminum wear strip effortlessly handles hard snow and ice, while the adjustable 48-55 inch length ensures comfort for all users.
The ergonomic D-grip handle reduces back strain, and the sturdy iron construction promises durability. This shovel is easy to assemble and detachable for convenient storage.
Ideal for heavy snowfall, it combines efficiency with user-friendly design, making winter snow removal less of a chore. A reliable choice for anyone needing a robust, adaptable snow shovel.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide 16-inch blade
- Adjustable handle length
- Aluminum wear strip
- Ergonomic D-grip handle
- Durable iron construction
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires strength for assembly
- May be heavy for some
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 offers lightweight, powerful performance, weighing only 9.9 lbs. Its 4.0Ah battery throws snow up to 20 feet, clearing 300 lbs per minute.
The 12-inch clearing width and 6-inch depth are ideal for driveways and sidewalks. The adjustable 60° directional plate lets you aim snow precisely, while the ergonomic handle reduces back strain.
Quiet operation and a dual safety switch enhance usability and safety. Easy to assemble and winter-ready, this electric shovel is a convenient, efficient solution for snow removal.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight at 9.9 lbs
- Throws snow 20 feet
- Adjustable directional plate
- Quiet operation
- Dual safety switch included
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Narrow 12-inch width
- Limited battery life
Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded 12Amp Snow Shovel, 16″ Width, 430lbs/Minute
The Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded Snow Shovel offers a powerful 12-amp motor, capable of moving up to 430 lbs of snow per minute. With a 16-inch clearing width and 8-inch depth, it handles snow efficiently, throwing it up to 30 feet away.
Ideal for driveways and walkways, it features 6-inch rear wheels for easy maneuverability and transport. Key features include an auxiliary handle, cord retention hook, and dual-curved auger blade for enhanced performance.
The corded design ensures continuous power without battery concerns. Perfect for quick, hassle-free snow removal, this shovel combines gas-like power with electric convenience, making winter maintenance a breeze.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- High snow-moving capacity
- Easy to maneuver
- Consistent power supply
- Durable dual-curved blade
- Simple to transport
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Corded design limits range
- Requires nearby outlet
Electric Cordless Snow Shovel, Snow Blower Cordless, 13″x6″ Clearing Path, Directional Plate & Auxiliary Handle, Snowblower Electric Snow Blower Battery Powered (2*4.0Ah Batteries & Charger Included)
The DoDidxyz Electric Cordless Snow Shovel delivers powerful performance with a 21V motor and two 4.0Ah batteries, providing up to 40 minutes of runtime. Its 13-inch-wide clearing path and 6-inch depth tackle heavy snow efficiently, throwing it up to 16.5 feet away.
Features include a ±30° directional chute for precise snow placement and an ergonomic handle for comfort. The advanced cooling system ensures uninterrupted operation, while the oversized shield keeps you dry.
Lightweight at 9.3 lbs, it’s easy to handle and store with its foldable design. Perfect for quick, cordless snow removal on driveways, steps, and patios.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cordless convenience
- Long battery life
- Lightweight and portable
- Directional chute control
- Quick to assemble
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited snow depth
- Shorter throwing distance
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 is the ideal snow shovel width for most people?
The ideal width depends on typical snowfall; 18-24 inches is versatile for moderate snow, while wider (30+ inches) works best for light snowfalls. Narrower shovels (12-18 inches) are better for heavy, wet snow or tight spaces. Choose based on your local climate and physical strength.
How does shovel width affect efficiency?
Wider shovels clear paths faster but require more effort, especially with heavy snow. Narrower shovels are easier to lift and maneuver but take more passes to clear the same area. Balance speed with your endurance to avoid strain.
Are wider shovels better for large driveways?
Yes, wider shovels (30+ inches) are efficient for large, open areas with light to moderate snowfall. However, they can be cumbersome in tight spaces or with heavy snow. Consider a combination of widths for versatility.
What are the drawbacks of a very narrow snow shovel?
Narrow shovels (under 18 inches) require more passes, which can be time-consuming for large areas. However, they excel at clearing deep or compacted snow with less strain. They’re ideal for detail work or heavy-duty tasks.
How does shovel width interact with the handle type?
Wider shovels often pair better with ergonomic handles to reduce back strain, as the load is heavier. Narrow shovels work well with straight handles for precision. Match the handle to the width for optimal comfort and control.
Should I prioritize width or material when choosing a shovel?
Material (e.g., metal vs. plastic) affects durability and weight, while width influences efficiency. For heavy snow, prioritize a sturdy material over width. For light snow, width can be a bigger factor in speed.
What’s the best shovel width for wet, heavy snow?
A narrower shovel (12-18 inches) is best for wet, heavy snow to limit the weight per scoop. Wider shovels can cause excessive strain and potential injury. Focus on manageability over speed in these conditions.
Are there adjustable-width snow shovels available?
Yes, some shovels feature adjustable widths, allowing you to customize based on snow conditions. These are versatile but may lack the durability of fixed-width models. Consider them if you face varying snow types regularly.