How to Buy a Snow Shovel

Anyone who's been through a winter storm knows the value of a good snow shovel. Here's what to look for when you're buying one.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Work Gloves
• Work Gloves
• Snow Shovels

1. Avoid shovels with plastic blades - they will break more easily. Look for metal shovels with handles made of wood or metal.

2. Buy as large a shovel as you think you can handle properly when full of snow.

3. Look for a shovel that has open sides to facilitate sliding the snow off of the shovel.

4. Make sure the shovel you select "fits" you. Is the length good? Is the handle the right size? Shoveling snow is hard work; a shovel that is a poor fit can increase the likelihood of soreness or injury.

Tips & Warnings

• A snow shovel will probably cost between $25 and $60.
• Test out shovels wearing a pair of gloves - the ones you will wear when shoveling - so you can see how the snow shovel feels in your hands.
• Don't forget the other items you need for winter maintenance: work gloves, ice chipper, rock salt.

[MrJaye]

on 1/28/2008 Plastic is WAY better. I have used the same snow shovel with a plastic blade at an elementary school for 10 years in below zero weather and have NEVER had the blade break. In fact I'm still using the same shovel. Plastic is lighter, the snow doesn't stick to the blade as stubbornly as metal and the edges don't "curl" over time as they do with metal blades. I would NEVER go back to metal.

on 8/8/2006 For years I hurt my back and lived with back aches after almost every meaningful snow. For the past two years I have used a product call the Wovel. I haven't come close to injuring my back since, and can clear snow up to 2 feet this season.

on 3/11/2006 If you spray your shovel blade (plastic or metal) with non-stick cooking spray it will help in preventing the snow from sticking to the shovel, and slide off much easier.

on 3/8/2006 A grain shovel. If you have ever been skiing, you will notice that this is what all the ski lift operators use - for a reason. It moves snow, a lot of snow for the effort. Your best bet is one with an aluminum bucket. There are plastic ones, but when it comes to snow, weight is an issue. You can get an aluminum grain shovel at your local Home Depot for $26. It will last you forever, it will be one of the best investments you will ever make.

on 2/16/2006 A plastic shovel blade is lighter and therefore better for your back.