About Mountain Snow Shovels

Function

• Mountain snow shovels are hand tools whose wide metal or plastic blades are specifically made to lift away the heavy snow found in and around mountains. These shovels can dig snow and cut ice, and are especially useful for those who live or work in the mountains or participate in back-country skiing or other winter wilderness sports.

Identification

• Generally, mountain snow shovels include a broad, curved blade in either plastic or metal connected to a long, tee-shaped handle. The average snow shovel of this kind weighs a little over 1 lb., and is about 2 to 3 feet in length with a blade measuring approximately 10 by 10 inches. Later versions of mountain snow shovels are lighter and more compact, and come with U-shaped handles to be used with both hands. These include the Snowclaw Backcountry Snow Shovelä, which weighs relatively little but is still equipped for heavy-duty lifting.

Features

• Several mountain snow shovels on the market are furnished with features designed to facilitate the often troublesome task of shoveling snow. These special elements include a removable wear strip on the bottom of the shovel blade that can be replaced after significant wear and tear, lengthening the shovel's life. Ergonomic curved or ridged handles on some mountain snow shovels provide an extra level of comfort and a firm grip, and may prevent back pain during and after shoveling. The strong edges found on many of these products allow users to move snow and cut through ice.

Cost and Recommendations

• A mountain snow shovel is relatively inexpensive. Cost depends on the level of additional features included in the product. Seasoned snow shovel users suggest that the best mountain snow shovels are sturdy but not so heavy that they create much added weight to the task of shoveling. It's a good idea to shop for a snow shovel during the fall or early winter, as some specialty stores begin to de-stock their supplies of snow gear in preparation for spring. Nevertheless, they can be found at online retailers year-around.

Benefits

• Using a mountain snow shovel as opposed to the regular model can bring notable health benefits for the person shoveling. This expressly designed snow tool has been shown to prevent back pain with its long handle and wide blade, which help people avoid bending as they push and lift snow. In addition, the enhanced durability and flexibility of these products enables faster digging and clearing of snow in emergency situations.