About Snow Shovels

Types

• Snow shovels range in price from $5.99 to over $50. They come in plastic and metal varieties. There are small scoop shovels and large, barrel-shaped shovels. All of the prices, materials, and sizes can fit into three categories: big scoop shovels,ergonomic shovels and snow pushers.

Function

• The snow pusher is a great snow shovel for people with weak backs (and if you've never shoveled before, be prepared for a tired back after your workout). Snow pushers do just what their name implies: They push snow. These shovels do not work if you want to pick up the snow and drop it in another location. They are good only for pushing the snow out of the way. A variation of the snow pusher is a shovel that has a deep scoop blade, so you can push the snow and pick up small loads.

Benefits

• The ergonomic shovels have a bent shaft or handle, so you can grip the handle without bending down. This bent handle protects your back. Most of these shovels are made of aluminum, so they are light. Because ergonomic shovels vary in length, it's a good idea to try them out before purchasing. Pick one up and pretend to shovel. This will help you determine if the shovel is the right length for your height.

Size

• The big scoop shovels are wide shovels with an approximately 22-inch (or wider) blade. The width makes these shovels akin to a snow plow blade, and their size makes them ideal for pushing large amounts of snow. The handle is usually a one-piece, "U"-shaped design crafted for maximum pushing ability. Some even have wheels to help protect your back.

Features

• When looking at shovels, there are some features to consider that can save you time and effort. If you intend to break up ice while shoveling, consider a steel strip across the blade. Steel strips, however, are not suitable for decks, because they will chip the wood. For decks, use a shovel with a nylon wear strip. Plastic shovels are light, but are not cut out for heavy snow or breaking ice. Aluminum shovels are light and do not tend to break. The Ames Articblast Snow Pusher has a steel ergonomic handle, steel strip and aluminum blade.

Expert Insight

• If you grew up on a farm, you most likely used a grain shovel to move snow. Grain shovels are large scoop shovels that are approximately 18 inches high, with a 14-inch-wide blade. The handles are steel-core and the blades are usually graphite. These shovels are meant to last whether you are shoveling grain, sand or snow.