Comparison: Best Snow Shovel Nyt (Updated | Jan 2nd)
Winter mornings are beautiful, until you’re staring at a driveway buried under two feet of snow. That’s when the right shovel isn’t just a tool—it’s your best friend. With so many options claiming to be the best, we turned to the New York Times’ rigorous testing to cut through the noise. Whether you need something ergonomic for your back or heavy-duty for heavy drifts, we’ve compared the top NYT-recommended picks so you can get back inside faster.
Key Takeaways
- The top choice excels in durability and ergonomic design for efficient snow removal.
- Consider shovel material and handle length to match your physical needs.
- Look for lightweight options to reduce strain during prolonged use.
- Choose a shovel with a curved blade for better leverage and lifting.
- BEST FOR ERGONOMIC DUAL-HANDLE: Snow Shovel for Driveway Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SPRING-ASSISTED LIFT: Snow Joe Snow Shovel with 18-Inch Blade and Assist Handle Read More ↓
- BEST FOR POWERFUL CORDLESS OPTION: Electric Cordless Snow Shovel Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BACK-SAVING Z-SHAPE: 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 ORIGINAL UHMW PUSHER: The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher (36 Inches) Read More ↓
- BEST FOR EFFORT-REDUCING LEVER: Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution Snow Shovel with Spring-Assist Handle Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ADJUSTABLE LENGTH DESIGN: 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 HIGH-POWER ELECTRIC: Litekon 40V Brushless Cordless Snow Shovel Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ROLLING STEEL PLOW: Best Choice Products 36in Galvanized Blade Heavy-Duty 2-Wheel Snow Pusher Hand Plow for Snow Removal w/Wheels Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Snow Shovel Nyt
Snow Shovel for Driveway, Snow Removal Shovel with Ergonomic D-Grip Handle, Lightweight Shoveling Tool, Large Capacity Shovel for Garden, Car Garage, Home Sidewalk and Camping, Black
The SFAED Snow Shovel is designed for efficient snow removal with its wide 16-inch blade, allowing you to clear large areas quickly. The ergonomic double-handle design reduces muscle fatigue and back strain, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.
Built with durable aluminum anti-wear strips, it handles heavy workloads while ensuring long-lasting performance. Its removable design allows for easy assembly and compact storage.
Perfect for driveways, sidewalks, and other outdoor spaces, this shovel combines comfort, durability, and efficiency. It’s an ideal tool for tackling winter snow removal with ease and convenience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide blade for quick clearing
- Ergonomic double-handle design
- Durable aluminum anti-wear strips
- Easy to assemble and store
- Reduces back strain
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- May be bulky to store
- Plastic scoop may crack
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 features a heavy-duty, impact-resistant 18-inch blade that stands up to tough jobs and resists wear. Its ergonomic D-Ring handle grip improves posture and reduces bending, minimizing strain.
The innovative spring-assisted design acts as a fulcrum, enhancing shoveling mechanics while reducing stress on your back and arms. Added leverage to the lower hand allows you to lift heavier loads more efficiently with less effort.
Lightweight at 3.5 lbs, it’s built for comfort and durability, making winter snow removal simpler and more effective for driveways and walkways.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Impact-resistant 18-inch blade
- Spring-assisted lifting power
- Ergonomic D-Ring handle
- Lightweight at 3.5 lbs
- Reduces back and arm strain
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Spring mechanism may break
- Handle may feel short
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)
- CORDLESS CONVENIENCE, POWERFUL RESULT – This is the end of compromise! Our 21V motor delivers brutal power to conquer the heaviest snow, not just cope with it. While other electric snow shovel set you up for failure with a single, pathetic battery, we equip you like a pro with two professional-grade 4.0Ah batteries for unstoppable, 40-minute runtime. This is total domination: your driveway, steps, and patio cleared in one continuous, victorious sweep. No quitting. No excuses. Just results.
- GO WIDE. DIG DEEP. THROW FAR – Our 13-inch-wide path devours snow in a single, powerful pass—slashing your shoveling time in half. Our electric snow blower cordless doesn’t just skim the surface; it digs a full 6 inches deep to rip through packed, heavy snow that defeats ordinary cordless snow shovel. And with a 16.5-foot throwing distance, the snow is gone for good—not just relocated to the edge of your path. This isn’t just a cordless snow blower; it’s your ticket to a faster, easier season.
- PRECISION CONTROL, ERGONOMIC COMFORT – Stop the assembly frustration! This electric snowblower clicks together in seconds—snap, grab, and go. First, aim with precision: the ±30° directional chute ensures snow lands exactly where you want it. Then, work in total comfort: adjust the extra handle for optimal control. No hunching, no sore back. Finish fast, step back to admire your neat driveway/patio—This is shoveling, perfected.
- EFFICIENT HEAT DISSIPATION & OVERSIZED PROTECTIVE SHIELD – No more stopping mid-clear to wait for your electric shovel for snow removal to cool down! Our advanced cooling system actively vents heat, guaranteeing relentless power from the first flake to the last. And the oversized shield isn’t just bigger—it’s a total barrier. It deflects blinding, soaking snow spray to keep you dry, safe, and focused on the path ahead. No pauses. No mess. Just pure, uninterrupted clearing power.
- LIGHTWEWIGHT TO OPERATE & FOLDABLE TO STORE – One happy 70-year-old user says it best: “Let me tell ya, this thing’s only 9.3Lbs—feels lighter than my grandkid’s backpack! I cleared my whole driveway yesterday and didn’t even huff like I do when I climb the stairs. No straining, just grab it and go—even my creaky shoulders didn’t complain. Its smart foldable design means it stores in a fraction of the space in my garage. Winter finally met its match… and it’s a little 9.5Lbs snow wizard 🙂
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
- Ergonomic Design: The innovative curved Z-shape handle minimizes back strain and bending, allowing for comfortable, upright shoveling to reduce fatigue. It is absolutely back-saving and friendly for seniors!
- Lightweight Yet Durable: Crafted from high-quality poly material, the shovel head is exceptionally light for easy handling without sacrificing strength or durability, while the 17-inch wide scoop with aluminum wear stripe maintains excellent snow removal efficiency.
- Reinforced for Heavy Duty: Strengthened handles is engineered with improved steel delivering superior strength and fracture resistance without any increase in weight; Load-tested up to 124 LBS, 40% increase in load capacity over previous model.
- Rigorously Inspected: Every single shovel undergoes a rigorous pre-delivery test assembly to guarantee flawless performance and easy installation right out of the box.
- Quick, three-step assembly: Designed for convenience, align the parts, secure the three screws with the included hardware, and you’re ready to shovel (assembly guide included).
The Snowplow The Original Snow Pusher (36 Inches)
The Snowplow Original Snow Pusher features a robust 36-inch blade made from virgin UHMW polyethylene, ensuring superior durability and cold-weather performance. Its patented TUFFBRACE connector system enhances sturdiness, while the self-sharpening blade slides snow effortlessly without sticking.
The fiberglass handle has twice the wall thickness of standard shovels for extra strength. Ideal for concrete, decks, and roofs, it’s easy to assemble in under 5 minutes.
Proudly made in the USA, this shovel is a top choice for professionals and homeowners tackling heavy snowfalls with ease and efficiency.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Extremely durable build
- Non-stick blade
- Easy assembly
- Made in USA
- Self-sharpening edge
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Heavy to maneuver
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 combines innovation with comfort to make snow removal less strenuous. Its spring-assisted handle acts as a fulcrum, reducing back and arm strain while lifting heavy loads.
The ergonomic D-ring grip improves posture and minimizes bending. Built with an impact-resistant blade, it’s designed for durability and long-lasting performance.
Ideal for large snowfalls, this shovel provides enhanced leverage, making each lift more efficient. Whether clearing driveways or walkways, the Shovelution simplifies winter tasks with its user-friendly design and reliable performance in tough conditions.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Reduces back strain
- Ergonomic D-ring handle
- Spring-assisted lifting
- Durable blade
- Lightweight design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited blade size
- Higher cost than basic shovels
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 is designed for efficient snow removal with its 16-inch wide blade and aluminum wear strips, making it easy to tackle hard snow and ice. Its ergonomic dual handle design reduces muscle strain, while the adjustable length (48-55 inches) ensures comfort for users of all heights.
The sturdy iron handle and detachable parts make it durable and easy to store. Ideal for driveways and sidewalks, this shovel combines functionality with ease of use, ensuring quick and effective snow clearance during winter months.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide blade for fast clearing
- Aluminum strips for durability
- Adjustable height for comfort
- Easy to assemble and store
- Ergonomic D-grip handle
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- May feel heavy for some
- Requires effort for deep snow
Litekon 40V Brushless Cordless Snow Shovel, 13-Inch Electric Snow Blower with 2X 4.0Ah Batteries & Charger, Battery-Powered Snow Removal with 16.5FT Throw Distance for Patio, Deck, Driveway,Green
The Litekon 40V Cordless Snow Shovel offers powerful and effortless snow removal with its brushless motor and dual 4.0Ah batteries, providing up to 45 minutes of runtime. It clears snow up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches deep, throwing it up to 16.5 feet away.
The lightweight, ergonomic design includes a shock-absorbing grip and adjustable length (56 inches), making it user-friendly for all ages. The rotatable snow guide plate adds precision, while its cordless design ensures hassle-free operation.
Perfect for heavy snow conditions, this electric shovel is a reliable winter companion.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cordless for easy mobility
- Long battery runtime
- Adjustable throwing angle
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- Powerful brushless motor
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited width for large areas
- Batteries add extra weight
Best Choice Products 36in Galvanized Blade Heavy-Duty 2-Wheel Snow Pusher Hand Plow for Snow Removal w/Wheels, Adjustable Handle, Blade Angle – Black
Tackle heavy snowfall with this heavy-duty 2-wheel snow pusher from Best Choice Products. Featuring a galvanized steel blade, it’s built to last through harsh winters while providing reliable performance.
The 36-inch wide blade, paired with smooth-rolling wheels, makes clearing driveways, walkways, and sidewalks effortless. Its adjustable blade angle and height-adaptive handles allow for customizable use, ensuring comfort and control.
For safety, reflective tape is included for visibility in low-light conditions. When winter ends, the handles lock upright for compact storage.
A durable, efficient tool for snow removal.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Durable galvanized steel blade
- Wide 36-inch clearing path
- Adjustable blade angle
- Height-adaptive handles
- Includes reflective tape
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky to store
- Heavy to maneuver
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 should I look for in a snow shovel?
Consider the shovel’s blade material, with steel or aluminum being durable and plastic lightweight. A curved or ergonomic handle can reduce strain on your back during use. Also, think about the shovel size—larger blades move more snow but may be heavier to lift.
How do different snow shovels compare?
Push-style shovels are great for clearing light, fluffy snow quickly, while scoop shovels handle heavy, wet snow better. Some models have wheels for easier maneuverability, while others are manual and require more effort. Features like adjustable handles or built-in scrapers can add convenience.
What features make a snow shovel worth the price?
High-quality materials like reinforced steel or UV-resistant plastic ensure longevity. Ergonomic designs with cushioned grips reduce fatigue and improve comfort. Additional features like telescoping handles or replaceable blades add value over time.
Are there specific snow shovels recommended by experts?
The NYT’s Wirecutter highlights models like the True Temper Mountain Mover for its durability and performance. They also praise the Ergonomic Snow Shovel for its back-saving design. These recommendations balance efficiency, comfort, and affordability.
How do I choose between a push and scoop shovel?
Push shovels are ideal for large, flat areas and light snowfall, as they’re faster to use. Scoop shovels are better for lifting and throwing heavy snow, especially in tight spaces. Consider your typical snow conditions and physical capabilities when deciding.
What’s the best way to maintain a snow shovel?
Clean the shovel after each use to prevent rust and debris buildup. Store it in a dry place to avoid damage from moisture. Inspect the handle and blade regularly for wear and replace parts if needed.
Are lightweight snow shovels effective?
Lightweight shovels are easier to maneuver and reduce strain, especially for prolonged use. However, they may not be as durable for heavy or icy snow. Look for models with reinforced blades if you need both lightness and strength.
How do I ensure a snow shovel is the right size for me?
Choose a shovel with a handle length that allows you to stand upright without bending excessively. Test the grip to ensure it feels comfortable in your hands. A blade width of 18–24 inches is typically versatile for most users.