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Best Snow Shovels Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
We’ve realized through our many articles that this may be one of the most important aspects that individuals look for in any product. With that, we had to include it here. No individual wants to purchase a product that will break within hours or days of use. This becomes a waste of time, money, and effort. Most importantly, this becomes a bad rep for the brand. With that, durability is one of the most important criteria for consumers and we can see why. Therefore, we took into heavy consideration the longevity of these shovels and the fact that many of these shovel users live in cold winter states where they will be needing them for almost half the year.
Ease of Use
This was incredibly important to us because overall, this sums up the overall appearance and benefit of the snow shovel. We determine this by looking at different aspects of the shovel. With that said, quality is overall what an individual will get out of the snow shovel. No individual wants to be out all day shoveling snow. Therefore, a snow shovel is meant to make the process much easier. However, if the shovel does not have an anti-stick coating, shoveling snow is made much harder. These were all aspects we considered detrimentally important towards the quality of the shovel.
Now, since this list is dedicated to snow shovels, we also looked to see if the shovels had any specific qualities that made them great for other purposes. For example, when thinking about this criterion in specific, we had to keep in mind that the purpose of a snow shovel is to shovel snow! However, if an individual wants to use the shovel for another purpose, such as digging in the backyard or picking up rocks, would it be possible? These and many other important questions were taken into consideration when developing this list.
Style
Another criterion that we consider extremely important when picking out the best shovels was the design. For example, the shovel design is crucial because without the right design an individual may spend hours shoveling. With that, there are many different technology designs, coating, and materials that brands have used to expand their shovel appeal.
One thing is for certain! The design of the shovel is meant to help individuals and all different aspects of the shovel such as the handle, grip, shaft, and blade add-ons to the shovel design. What we can say, is that we looked at many different designs and these are the top 10. Whether you want an urban design or traditional snow shovel design with a metal blade, this list has it.
As we started coming across the different handles and grip styles that companies were designing, we realized they are all pretty universal. For example, a quality grip means that an individual can sweat and the grip of the shovel will not slip. More so, many brands designed the handle with a D-style design that meant an individual could get a better grip.
On top of that, as we research we realized some of the handles were made out of rubber or out of a non-slip coating that ensured individuals would get the maximum grip while shoveling. With that, we realized that many users want a good grip that ensures hand safety. As we discussed, the worst thing is to be shoveling snow and get a blister or twist your hand, a good grip ensures that it does not happen. This is why we included it as a criterion.
Materials
Now, this next element of a shovel may be considered one of the most important. In fact, the reason a person buys a shovel is for the usefulness of the blade. With that, the blade needs to be made from powerful materials so you can use it successfully. Now, one thing we knew thanks to our many friends that live in the cold winter states is that there are many different styles and sizes of the blade.
For example, there are rectangle blades that are as wide as 48 inches. These blades are intended to push or pick up as much snow as possible. But, there are other blades such as regular V-shaped blades that individuals have learned to trust over the years. In any case, we knew that the blades of the snow shovels we shared had to be of the best quality. To figure this out we had to take many different snow shovels into consideration. What we found most unique is that some brands even include a non-stick coating on the blade so snow doesn’t stick easily to the blade. This we considered not only a great time-saving design but a beneficial feature and quality overall.
Value
As we have discussed many times before, cost and value are some of the most important criteria for us. The reason being is that the last thing we want for our users is for them to break the bank buying a shovel. With that, we did realize that the most an individual spends – the better the quality. However, our goal is to always bring a well-rounded list of products that are all great quality at different ranges.
10 BEST SNOW SHOVELS REVIEWED & RATED FOR QUALITY
1. Snow Joe Shovelution
This shovel design is unlike anything we have seen before. At first glance, it looks like two shovel handles in one, but we can guarantee there is a purpose behind the unusual design of this shovel. Let’s talk about the Snow Joe Shovelution SJ-SHVL01 and what users can expect from this quality shovel. Here are two important points users should take into consideration about this quality shovel.
The Unique Design
The design of this particular shovel has gone rigorous testing and at first look, it looks kind of odd. However, it is the design quality of this shovel that makes it one of the best. In fact, the design includes two areas of the grip to give lifting leverage to the lower handler. With that, users can lift more snow with ease and then fling it off the handle quickly. This design element is more modern and allows users to lift more snow quickly without strain on the back or other muscles.
The Grip Handle
As we said, one of the most important aspects of a shovel is the handle. With that said, this manufacturer has created a comfortable ergonomic D-ring handle design that allows users a better and more comfortable grip. With that in mind, the comfortable grip handle is in both the upper and lower shovel handles, allowing individuals to easily grip with ease without worry of any blisters or discomfort to the hand.
Cost And Value
As we talk about cost and value for this particular shovel, users should keep in mind that the design of this shovel is more modern and will raise the price a bit. In fact, this shovel is about double the last shovel on the list. However, it is the material, the design quality, and the technology that makes this shovel one of the best and worth it for any individual that wants to shovel snow with ease. With that said, we believe it is one of the best.
2. Suncast SC2700 20-Inch
It’s time to talk about another shovel that is pretty regular, easy to use, and highly touted. This next shovel resembles another old-time shovel with a more urban material construction. Let’s talk about the Suncast SC2700 20-Inch Shovel and what users can expect from this quality shovel. Here are two important notes to take into consideration if you want this shovel.
The Blade
As we have talked about before, the blade of a shovel is one of the most important parts. Without a proper blade, an individual needed to shovel snow can suffer a lot of aches, pains, and stress. With that said, one of the most stressful elements of shoveling snow is when the snow gets stuck to the shovel. Therefore, this manufacturer created the blade from a non-stick graphite material, so no snow ever gets stuck to the blade again, making the shoveling process a lot easier for the user.
Strong Steel Construction
It seems that only companies that are really focused on quality and strength use steel materials nowadays. With that said, this brand has stayed true to the use of steel on a shovel by making the handle grip out of a comfort grip steel material. With that, the wear strip is also made from a galvanized steel material. This gives users an essence of comfort and support as they tackle any snowing job.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration, one aspect that a user should take into consideration is if there are shipping and handling prices. For example, this brand has the price set a bit lower, however, with shipping and handling the price of the shovel can easily skyrocket to about the same price as the last quality shovel on this list. Therefore, it is an important aspect to look out for. Either way, for the price, it is a quality daily shovel that users will appreciate having in the case of emergencies.
3. Garant Nordic
This next shovel may be what people think about when they think of a modern shovel. This shovel is known as a “snow pusher” shovel due to the flat and wide blade design. With that said, let’s talk about the Garant NPP26KDU Nordic 26-Inch shovel and what users can expect from this quality shovel. Here are two points to take into consideration.
Polyethylene Blade
The blade of a shovel is known as one of the most important parts. Frankly, without a proper blade, an individual may not be able to shovel properly. With that, this one is different than the last shovel because it is meant for the easy pickup and push of snow. With that, the blade is 26-inches wide and allows individuals to easily push snow from one spot to another. Now, the material of the blade, Polyethylene, is designed to withstand the test of time and be strong enough to hold a couple of pounds of snow many times over.
The Grip
One of the important parts of a shovel is the handle and the way that an individual can hold it. With that said, this shovel offers a quality grip design that users will appreciate. With that said, the grip has a half circle style design that allows users to hold it effectively without worry that the handle may fall off or slip off.
Cost And Value
As far as cost and value, this shovel comes in many different variations and sizes. An individual can purchase a 26-inch or an 18-inch shovel for their driveway or snow pushing needs. With that said, the price of the shovel will shift according to what an individual purchase. Now, what we can say is that the quality of the shovel is superb and users highly tout it. With 4.5+ stars, we recommend this shovel as a quality snow pushing shovel.
4. Bettli Aluminum
We are eager to bring another design style that is much like the first one on this list. This next high-quality shovel resembles the very first shovel on the list thanks to a minimal design that is compact and easy to use. As a great driveway shovel, this is one of the most affordable and easy to use shovels that offer great design qualities with a minimal and compact style.
The Construction Materials
One of the biggest benefits of this shovel is that it is not a super heavy duty. As we said, it is meant for lightweight snow shovelings such as a driveway or a walkway. With that said, the construction of this shovel is from an aluminum material that is lightweight, easy to use, and does not chip quickly. With that, it is nowhere near as heavy as an actual shovel. This material allows teenagers and even kids to help the big ones of the family shovel away, weighing at only 1.3 pounds.
The Handle Adjustment Design
Have you ever used a shovel to realize that the handle had no grip or was not sized properly? With that, this manufacturer created a handle design that allows individuals to elongate the handle from 25 inches to 32 inches. More so, the design is perfect for individuals that want the flexibility of the handle adjustment depending on how much snow they plan to shovel or how much there is in general.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration, we cannot help but say that this design happens to be one of the best for light use. The design is portable, collapses into threes and is very easy to use. With that, this manufacturer focused on quality and created a great handle design and aluminum construction that can withstand the test of time. With that said, users will appreciate the quality of the handle and the quality of the construction design.
5. J&M Enterprises TV206971
It’s time to talk about another quality shovel that resembles much of the design quality of the last one. However, it has one particularly different design element. Let’s talk about the J&M Enterprises TV206971 Snowplow and what users can expect from this quality snow shovel. Here are two important points to take into consideration.
D-Style Handle Grip
One of the most important aspects of a shovel is the grip. Without a proper grip, a person can spend hours shoveling snow and hurt him or herself. With that said, this shovel has a great grip design that includes a D-Style design for better and more effective use. With that said, the materials of the handle are durable and can withstand lots of wear and tear. Also, individuals feel secure that the handle is attached very well to the handle.
Size of The Snow Plow
Now, what makes this snow plow quite different than the last one is the size. Although they virtually look the same, the last one is 48” which raises the price by a lot, and this one is only 30”. With that, users need to ask themselves important questions such as, do they really need 48” or is 30” okay, and will this smaller size be more effective. With that, these questions are very important towards picking out the right shovel.
Cost And Value
As we talk about cost and value, we are eager to share that this shovel is priced well below the last one. However, it is above the competition because of the quality of the shovel. With a really great properly designed blade, a nice high-quality grip, and a strong construction build. Users will appreciate the quality of this snow shovel compared to many other ones in the industry.
6. The Snowcaster 30SNC
As we started our research, we were quite surprised to come across this next shovel. This shovel can be quiet and a stress-reliever for the right individual and although it looks odd and more of a gimmick, it may come in handy. There is a reason it has 4.5+ reviews. We will let you be the judge of whether or not this shovel is worth it. Let’s talk about The Snowcaster 30SNC 36 Inch Shovel and what users can expect from this quality shovel.
Design To Roll Not Push
This shovel has two wheels in the back because the intention is that an individual will roll the snow out of the way. In fact, the shovel is meant for people with back problems or people that want to reduce fatigue or weight on the back when shoveling. If you have been shoveling snow for years, then this may be the best shovel design for you. With two wheels on the back, an individual is able to easily move snow out of the way.
The Blade Design
Now, this shovel has to be assembled by the individual. With that said, it only takes about 10 minutes to assemble. However, an individual has to do it properly because the blade is bi-directional and created a wind-rowing design when in the snow. Meaning, the blade can move left and right a bit as an individual uses it so they can easily move snow out of the way. With that, the blade is also designed from a high-quality material that ensures it will last for many winters to come.
Cost And Value
As far as cost and value and upon further research, many individuals are extremely happy with this bi-direction wheeled snow pusher. The reason being is that it makes pushing snow a whole lot easier than dragging a shovel, picking up snow, and tossing it to the side. With this shovel, picking up snow and pushing it is made easy. With that in mind, what can a person expect to pay for this shovel? Well, considering the innovative design, this shovel can run for up to 4x’s a regular shovel price. However, the ease of use and no back pain is worth it.
7. Lifeline 4004
We are eager and excited to share with our readers one of the best shovel construction designs that they can buy in the industry. Intended so virtually anybody can use it, this shovel is lightweight and made to last. With that said, to our friends that live in snowy weather and need a good shovel. Here is the AAA 4004 Aluminum Sports Utility Shovel. Let’s talk about two important points about this quality shovel.
Lightweight Design and Construction
Before we made this list when we thought of a shovel we thought of those bulky steel and wood shovels that weighed thirty pounds. We had no idea that shovels could be made and designed for a lightweight Purpose. What is most shocking is the actual weight of this shovel, this shovel weighs 1.3 pounds so almost anybody can use it, even kids and teenagers. With that said, the reason it weighs so little so due to a high-quality aluminum design and construction.
Portable and Compact
When it comes to a shovel, there are many people that need one or have the wrong one because, frankly, they are not well informed or know that there is a variety out there. Well, this one is part of heat variety and ideal for all individuals that want a portable compact shovel. If you need to take your shovel with you anywhere, this shovel is perfect for car storage and can be taken apart into three different sections. It is considered a 3-piece shovel where all parts fit together and are easily dissembled.
Cost And Value
When it comes to this shovel, we can say that it is priced accordingly to the value. Considering that it has over 1k 4.5+ reviews, we think it is one of the best for the price. Other than that, the shovel actually can be purchased in three different color options. It is priced according to other market shovels and users will love the high-quality design and material of the shovel.
8. THE SNOWPLOW 50548
We think that when it comes to the name of this next snow shovel, it could have been the shovel that Homer Simpson was inspired to call his truck, “Mr. Plow.” With that said, we want to show our readers one of the best-designed shovels in the industry, made from premium construction materials so it can withstand the test of time, this is The Snowplow 50548. Here are two important points to take into consideration.
The Construction of The Plow
This manufacturer clearly understands the importance of having a quality shovel and plow that can withstand the test of time. More so, one aspect that a couple of manufacturers overlook is that snow is heavy and the wrong design can easily break a shovel. Well, this shovel’s construction is known to be premium and designed as one of the best. This shovel is made with a bolted together construction design. With that, if a part does break or an individual needs help, they can contact the manufacturer and all the parts are replaceable.
Ergonomic Fiberglass Design
As we have said before, one of the most important aspects of a snow shovel is the material in which the handle is made. This handle, in fact, is made from a fiberglass handle designed like a D-Style Grip for better use and easy use. With that, the fiberglass handle has an ergonomic design that users will appreciate and makes it easy to use.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration, we think that this may be one of the best shovels as far as construction is concerned because the shovel includes areas that are bolted together. Users will appreciate the quality and design of the shovel with a 48” wide poly blade that can easily carry a lot of snow. With that said, one of the biggest benefits of this shovel is the design quality and a manufacturing process that goes through rigorous testing.
9. The AMES Companies Inc.
This may just be the original shovel design. With a quality scoop design, this next shovel is better for dirt, mud, and debris than snow. The large scooper is ideal for emergency situations or backyard projects. With that said, let’s look at The Ames Companies Inc. True Temper #12 shovel and what users can expect from this high-quality shovel. Here are two important points.
Aluminum Blade Design
Now, as we have said the blade part of a shovel is the most important aspect. However, who knew that shovel blades came with so many designs and materials? With that, this blade design is better intended for dirt and backyard projects than anything else. It is a blade from aluminum that includes a 15-inch wide design and an 8-inch deep scoop holder. This scoop holder allows individuals to scoop more dirt easily without it falling out.
The Hardwood Handle
Now, this is new to the list! When we researched we were surprised by how many companies no longer produce a wooden handle design. The wooden handle design is what authentic shovels were made from. With that, this brand is still true to the tradition by including a wooden handle design that allows for the easy transfer of any material. More so, the handle is high quality, very strong, and can easily withstand the test of time. Users will appreciate the stability and grip of each reach thanks to the wood handle.
Cost And Value
Users should not be impressed by the reasonable price of this shovel. This shovel is quite simple, not too many bells and whistles, and is an effective good quality shovel. With that, the price resembles many simpler shovels on the list and users that want to use it for temporary use will appreciate the design. As a backyard shovel for simple uses, this one is really great.
10. Emsco Group 34 Inch
As the last shovel on this list, we are particularly excited to share this great quality shovel. Although we have mentioned that a couple of the smaller shovels on the list are great for kids and tends, this one is particularly created for kids ages 2 to 10. However, this shovel should be looked at as a kid-friendly and kid safe non-metal winter toy. With that said, let’s talk about the EMSCO Group 34-Inch Kids Snow Shovel. Here are two important points about this shovel.
Lightweight and Kid Safe
Of course, if a child is going to be playing with a shovel in the snow, the shovel has to be made from a lightweight design. With that said, this shovel is lightweight and only weighs about one pound, making it ideal for children. More so, it is a non-metal composite that is safe enough for kids but also very durable so it will not break easily. The grip is designed to fit smaller hands and kids can feel like part of the solution as they help their parents shovel snow.
Non-Stick Shovel
We talked about this previously, but the wrong shovel material can cause snow to stick. With that said, this manufacturer has made the shovel with a non-stick design that allows individuals to easily use the shovel. More so, the shovel is designed with a plastic material that resists even the stickiest of snow. Users and kids will thoroughly enjoy being able to shovel a bit of snow or build a snowman with this shovel.
Cost And Value
As we talk about cost and value, we believe that the quality of this shovel is superb. As one of the best shovels in the industry for kids, it is highly worth the cost and kids will love being able to be part of the crowd. More so, parents trust the shovel materials and feel at ease knowing that the kid is enjoying themselves, but safely. More so, the shovel has a great grip and does not include small parts. Lastly, the shovel comes in two colors, pink and red, so a parent can pick the best one for their kid.
Sources
- , Wikipedia, Information Site
- , REI, Outdoors Site
- , Snow Shovels, Snow Shovel Blog
