The 5 Best Snow Shovels of 2022
Updated: Dec. 01, 2022Read on to find out which snow shovel will work best for you this year.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
If it snows, you’re undoubtably going to have to have a snow shovel to clear your driveway, sidewalks or even just the area around your car. If you’re not interested in splurging on a snow blower or don’t have a need for one this year, the right shovel can do the trick. Here are our top picks for snow shovels this winter season.
The Best Overall Snow Shovel
Ames Back Saver Poly Snow Shovel
This 18 in. wide snow shovel has a flat front edge for pushing snow and slush. It has a deep back end, ideal for scooping stuff up and out of your way. Plus, its hard-edge nylon blade will scrape tough ice and snow without marring your deck or other soft surfaces.
The longer ergonomic handle on this shovel gives it an overall height of 54 in., and it weighs just 3 pounds—all features that make shoveling easier on your back. Even better, the super-wide D grip is designed accommodate any monster-size mitts.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic
- Works on snow and ice
Cons
- Some buyers note the handle coming loose after repeated use
Best Pusher Snow Shovel
The Snowplow Original Snow Pusher
The Original Snow Pusher is a wide-blade shovel with a strong brace support system that works for tough jobs. It’s rugged polyethylene blade is rustproof and nonabrasive, so it’s kind to soft surfaces like decks and porches. On harder surfaces, the impact-resistant blade is self-sharpening.
Flip this shovel over, use the back side of the blade and it does a quick job of removing ice- and snow-packed footprints or tire tracks. This pusher shovel is sought after by many snow-removal professionals in Minnesota.
Pros
- Good for tough jobs
- Durable
- Works on snow and ice
- Self-sharpening blade
Cons
- Some buyers note difficulty with assembly
Best Scooper Snow Shovel
Ames Scoop Shovel
In the Midwest, this classic scooper shovel is often referred to as a grain scoop. Its reputation is proven on the farm, but it’s also one of the best choices for moving piles of snow.
The 15-in.-wide rustproof aluminum blade is stiff and light, which with a hardwood D-grip handle makes for a lightweight shovel at 3-1/2 pounds. This shovel feels good in hand and is equally well suited for a variety of lawn and garden uses.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Rustproof
- Multipurpose use
Cons
- Not especially suited for ice or tougher snow
Best Ergonomic Snow Shovel
Snow Joe Shovelution
This ergonomic shovel claims to reduce the effort, strain and potential injury of shoveling by up to 30%. It has a second spring-loaded D-handle lower down that captures the expended energy from throwing the snow to return and reset the shovel.
The shovel blade is 18 in. wide with an aluminum wear strip. If you have chronic back issues this is the shovel for you. It comes in blue and red and has a price you’ll dig.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Ergonomic
- Durable, impact-resistant blade
Cons
- Some buyers note inconsistencies in product quality
Best Car Snow Shovel
Birdrock Home Emergency Snow Shovel
This compact snow shovel is great to keep in your car for emergency snow shovel situations. If you’re someone who travels often during the snowy months, it’s wise to keep a reliable snow shovel on hand to dig your car out of compact snow if necessary.
This one is constructed with lightweight aluminum that allows for easy storage and maneuvering. We think this one is a necessity if you’re camping, backpacking or snowmobiling this season. Plus, the shaft of the shovel extends to give you extra leverage while the rubber, textured handle gives you extra grip.
Pros
- Lightweight, compact and portable
- Affordable
- Multipurpose use
Cons
- Not suited for tough ice and snow
What to Consider When Buying a Snow Shovel
They say the weight of 1 foot of fresh snow ranges from 3 pounds per square foot for light, dry snow to 21 pounds for wet, heavy snow. Not that you want me to do this math for you but, if the average urban house has 40 feet of sidewalk with a 4-in. snow fall, plan on moving somewhere from 160 to 1,120 pounds of snow to clear that sidewalk.
That’s a lot of work, and most of us have a driveway to shovel as well! This is enough for most of us to go out and buy a snowblower, but not everyone can afford one, and even that machine alone isn’t going to clear all the snow.
Which type of snow shovel is right for you?
Pusher shovels have long handles with wider scoops that that push the snow out of the way, much like a snowplow on a truck. You can scoop up some snow with these, but their forte is pushing it out of the way.
Scooper shovels have a narrower-width blade with a deeper profile and enable you to pick up snow and throw it out of the way into a pile. This is the type of shovel you’ll want when the snowplow leaves that huge berm of snow on your sidewalk or driveway.
Ergonomic shovels are designed for efficiency and comfort. One of the mistakes made in shoveling is overreaching with the shoulders and bending too much from the waist. The typical ergo design is an offset handle that puts the scoop lower to the ground and keeps you from overextending your upper body. If you have back or shoulder issues, or are concerned about developing them, this type of shovel is the one to get.
What to remember when you’re shoveling snow
Winter’s tough enough so be safe when it comes time to get out and shovel the driveway. It’s wise to stretch before shoveling. You should also be careful not to lift too much snow with your back. Proper snow lifting means facing the snow and keeping your hips and shoulders square. Bend with your knees and lift with your legs. Be sure to shovel little amounts of snow and don’t let it pile up.
It can also be helpful to work in intervals and take a break every 15 minutes so you don’t overdo it. Taking breaks will means you can step inside to warm up, too. Working outside in the cold requires layers, boots and snow clothing to stay warm while doing the job. Plus, you’ll likely sweat through a layer so it’s important to have multiple layers.
Should you buy a car shovel in addition to another snow shovel?
One of the better things to have in your car during winter is a warm blanket, but hopefully you won’t need it if you can dig yourself out of a jam, so have a solid shovel onboard as well. Car snow shovels are compact and have the solid attributes of a larger shovel.
Shop smarter with our expert recommendations for tools, gear and money-saving deals on can’t miss DIY and home products. Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter.
