Best Snow Shovels: Clear Snowfall Away From Outdoor Spaces

Use any of these snow shovels to dig out your car and clear snowfall from your driveway

byDaniel Rika, Jovan Nikic, Norah Tarichia|
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BYDaniel Rika, Jovan Nikic, Norah Tarichia/ LAST UPDATED ON June 11, 2023

Your mind may go into overdrive in the winter season as you try to get warm clothing and make your house winter-ready. It’s also the time you think of getting a better snow shovel to keep your driveway, patio, and sidewalk clean and safe for walking. Don’t just settle for any snow shovel out there, even if you are in the last-minute rush of getting one. Not all shovels are suitable for moving large loads of snow with minimal strain on your part. That’s why we have come up with some of the best snow shovels that are worth your time and money.

Best Overall

Suncast Snow Shovel/Pusher Combo

Summary
An ergonomic snow shovel and pusher that can efficiently scoop and push snow, even on hard surfaces such as concrete and asphalt.
Pros
  • Its long 51-inch shaft makes it easy and comfortable to lift a snow load.
  • It offers plenty of leverage for tossing snow over the shoulder.
  • Features a steel strip for breaking up the ice.
  • Has a heavy-duty and bend-resistant steel shaft.
Cons
  • It’s heavier than most snow shovels.
  • It has a plastic handle that can bend under an intense grip.
Best Value

Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel

Summary
A versatile and collapsible aluminum snow shovel that can be disassembled into three pieces for easy storage.
Pros
  • Low price point.
  • Easy to assemble and use.
  • Lightweight and portable.
  • Resistant to rust and elements.
  • Multiple color options.
  • It can be adjusted from 25 to 32 inches in length.
  • Great for clearing light wintry precipitation.
Cons
  • Only good for scooping light snow.
  • The handle is small and may feel uncomfortable on large hands.
  • Has a narrow scooping blade.
Honorable Mention

Earthwise Electric Snow Shovel

Summary
A 12-amp electric corded snow shovel that can move 430 pounds of snow per minute and throws it at a distance of 30 inches.
Pros
  • Easy to start and operate.
  • Equipped with a safety switch.
  • It allows for quick and easy snow removal.
  • Features tracking wheels for easy movement.
  • It comes with an adjustable shaft and support handle for user comfort.
Cons
  • It can get damaged when used on uneven surfaces.
  • Can’t handle deep snow and ice.
  • Needs to be constantly plugged into a power outlet.

Summary List

Best Snow Shovels: Reviews & Recommendations

This ergonomic snow shovel and pusher from Suncast effectively scoops and pushes snow, even on hard surfaces such as concrete and asphalt. The handle is bent, so it's more comfortable to use for extended periods of time.


It has a 40-inch steel handle and a galvanized steel wear strip that helps to break up ice. It provides plenty of leverage, so it's not difficult to toss snow over your shoulder. The shape of the handle allows you to shovel without bending over too much, and it's easy to lift and toss the snow to the side. This is helpful if you have a bad back. The shovel is ribbed and angled for quicker snow removal. Overall, it's well-made and very sturdy.


One problem with this shovel is that it's heavier than many of its rivals. There have also been some complaints that the handle is a little short, particularly if you are on the taller side. Other users say it's better on light, fluffy snow versus heavy snow.

This versatile and collapsible aluminum snow shovel is designed so that you can disassemble it into three pieces, which makes it easy to store. You can adjust the height of the shovel from 25 to 32 inches. It's a great tool to keep in your car or truck, as well as on your ATV or snowmobile.


This shovel is well-built and is handy to have available in case of an emergency. It's easy to assemble and use, and is lightweight and portable, so it doesn't take up too much space in your vehicle. Since it's made of aluminum, the shovel won't rust and stands up well to the elements. It's ideal for light snow.


The biggest problem with this shovel is that it is not intended for heavy snow. Also, the handle is a little small and may be uncomfortable for people with larger hands. Another problem is that the scooping blade is a little on the narrow side, so it may take a while to remove snow.

If you want to use more than just muscle power when cleaning your driveway, consider this electric corded snow shovel from Earthwise. The 12-amp tool is designed to move 430 pounds of snow per minute, and it throws snow up to 30 feet away. It has a 16-inch clearing width and 8-inch clearing depth. The shovel is designed to tackle driveways, sidewalks, and decks.


This electric shovel is easy to assemble, start, and operate. It has 6-inch wheels that make it simple to maneuver. It also has a safety switch, an adjustable shaft, a dual-curved auger blade, and thermal protection. Some users report that it effectively shovels up to a foot of snow. Overall, the motor is fairly strong, it's not very heavy, and replacement parts aren't too expensive.


One problem with this shovel is that the cord may get in the way, and you have to make sure that it is constantly plugged into a power source or it won't work. Also, it may get damaged on uneven surfaces and doesn't work well in icy conditions.

This heavy-duty wheeled snow shovel has two wheels and a bi-directional angled blade. No lifting is required, which saves you from bending over. The manufacturer boasts that the product is 50 percent more efficient than a standard snow shovel.


This American-made product takes less than 10 minutes to assemble, is easy to use, and is very durable. It tackles thin layers of ice as well as snow, and many people use it in commercial areas such as ski resorts and college campuses, but it's also great for residential communities. It saves a lot of time compared to traditional shovels, and since you're walking upright and pushing instead of bending over and lifting, it doesn't hurt your back. The manufacturer even provides a one-year warranty in case something goes wrong.


While it's faster than a standard shovel, it works best on flat areas and when there's less than 4 inches of snow on the ground. It doesn't perform well in more than 6 inches of snow. The plastic blade also has a tendency to wear down after a short period of use.

This 18-inch steel snow shovel has a spring-assisted handle that is designed to reduce strain when you clear your driveway. The blade is durable and impact-resistant, and the handle, which is 41.3 inches long, is designed so the user doesn't have to bend over too much. The shovel provides enough leverage so you can move large loads of snow without too much difficulty.


The Snow Joe is lightweight and works in a variety of conditions: light, fluffy snow; wind-packed snow; and frozen snow. Snow doesn't stick to the shovel and easily slides off. The springiness in the handle allows you to throw the snow a good distance and helps you control the shovel when you reset to scoop up more snow. It is also quick and easy to assemble, and the manufacturer provides a two-year warranty.


However, it can take a little while to get used to the second handle. Also, the wear strip wears down rather quickly, and it is a little short for taller people who have to bend down a bit when using it.

Our Verdict on the Best Snow Shovels

We chose the Suncast Snow Shovel/Pusher Combo as the best snow shovel. It has a versatile design that allows you to scoop or push snow. It also has a curved shaft, which means that you use less force with each scoop. 

If you are looking for an affordable option for shoveling light snow or for use when backpacking, consider the Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel

Benefits of Snow Shovels 

  • Clear ice and snow. Snow shovels provide an easy way of clearing ice and snow that builds up on your driveway or front door, and makes it almost impossible or dangerous to leave your house. You only need to scoop or push it out of the path.
  • Eco-friendly. It could do the environment some good if you could simply go old-school and use a snow shovel instead of using salt and chemicals to remove the snow on your driveway.
  • Great workout. Snow shoveling is a great way to keep your body active during the winter season. If you are doing it in the right posture, you will get to work out your arms, shoulders, back, legs, and core from the repetitive movements with the snow shovel.
  • Cheap. If you can’t afford the luxury of having a snow blower, a snow shovel provides a cheaper way of removing snow. You won’t have to break your bank for a tool that you will only need for a season.

Types of Snow Shovels 

Traditional

A traditional shovel has a rectangular, curved blade at the bottom for clearing snow. The standard design is a straight handle with a D-grip, and a 24-inch-wide metal blade for shoveling the snow. However, you can find different manipulations of the same design depending on what the manufacturer deems useful. For instance, some shovels have an extra handle on the shaft to help you get a better grip when lifting the snow. 

Combo

A combo shovel has a similar design to the traditional shovel with the only difference being that the blade is slightly wider and curvier than a traditional shovel. It can be used for either pushing or scooping snow. It can help you get the work done faster than a traditional shovel, and is the best option for clearing snow on large walkways or driveways. 

Electric

An electric snow shovel is a machine used for pushing or shoveling snow. It’s powered with a battery pack or from a direct power source. The machine has wheels and you have to push it while it throws snow out of your way. This way, you get to clear snow more quickly with minimal effort on your part. A standard electric snow shovel can effectively remove snow that’s about 8 inches deep, while clearing a 12-inch-wide path. However, it’s heavier than the other options. 

Snow Shovel Pricing

  • Below $30: This price range mostly includes traditional or standard snow shovels. Most have plain designs since they are only designed for clearing snow from a small area. They are designed to be lightweight to reduce the strain on your body, and so that they can be carried around with ease.
  • $30 and up: This price range holds a plethora of electric and combo snow shovels. They feature high-quality blades, which can be used to either push or shovel snow. Some options come with large wheels and telescopic handles, which can be adjusted to a favorable working height.

Key Features

Material 

Everything from the blade to the handle should be made of high-quality material so that the shovel can last for a long time without breaking, bending, or rusting. Generally, a stainless steel or rust-resistant aluminum blade is the best for scooping hard ice and melted snow. You can also opt for plastic blades if you don’t want to scratch the surface. The best material for the handle is either lightweight steel, wood, or fiberglass.

Blade Size 

The blade size you go for depends on the snow removing technique you frequently use. If you only need to scoop the snow, then a blade that’s about 18 inches wide will do. If you need something that can push and scoop snow, then choose a blade that’s about 24 to 30 inches wide. 

Weight 

Just like any other tool, the snow shovel should be light enough to use and carry around. It can be quite difficult to move a huge pile of snow with a heavy snow shovel. It will also slow you down as you work. Prioritize a lightweight snow shovel, especially if you're going to be using it for hiking. 

Other Considerations

  • Handle Design: You want a steady, ergonomic handle that allows for a comfortable grip to help reduce hand fatigue. A wide D-grip offers a firm grip and will help promote a good scooping posture by reducing your tendency to lean over and lift with your back. Some models have an extra handle closer to the blade to increase your lifting leverage.
  • Wheels: Most electric and combo snow shovels are heavy and that’s why they come with wheels. Getting omni-directional wheels will be a plus for you since it will be easier to move it around. The easiest way to tell if the wheels are of good quality is by reading some of the customer reviews on the product. 
  • Climate: Does your region experience heavy, wet snowfall or just a regular snowfall? If it’s the latter, a standard snow shovel will do. However, if you expect more than 8 inches of snow, consider getting an electric snow shovel to remove the larger pile of ice. 

Tips

  • Wipe away any ice on the shovel after use. Allow the shovel to dry off for about half an hour before you store it. If it’s dirty, you can use water and mild soap to wash it off. 
  • Hang the snow shovel on a wall or store it in your trunk to keep it neat, within reach, and safe. 
  • When using a snow shovel to clear snow, hold the shovel with an overhand grip on the handle to effectively scoop the snow. Maintain a comfortable distance between the hand on the handle and the one on the shaft. 
  • To keep your arms from straining, try not to overstretch them when throwing the snow. Try to twist your body every time you toss the snow to relieve backpressure. Also, use your legs and not your back to lift the shovel. 

FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between a snow shovel and a snow pusher?

A: A snow shovel typically consists of a metal shaft and a blade. The shaft can come in different designs and materials. It’s designed for picking up snow and tossing it. A snow pusher is a smaller, handheld version of an industrial plow. It consists of a shaft (metal or wooden) and a wide plate (plastic or metal). It’s typically used to push snow from an even surface.

Q: What’s the best technique for clearing snow?

A: The best technique is the one that puts minimal strain on your back, legs, or arms. You can get that with an electric snow shovel or pusher since you only have to guide the machine as it does the work for you. For clearing deep snow, it’s best to use a snow pusher with wheels and a large plate. 

Q: How do you keep snow from sticking on the snow shovel?

A: Snow can stick on a metal or a plastic shovel. You can easily prevent that by lubricating your shovel. You can use cooking oil, petroleum jelly, or paraffin wax. You can also buy a multipurpose lubricant with a de-icing additive. Avoid applying the lubricant on the shaft or handle. Otherwise, you will have a hard time scooping the snow. 

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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