Why Choose a Snow Pusher Instead of a Shovel
Snow pushers are designed to keep snow moving ahead of the blade. Instead of having to lift each load, you can make passes down a driveway or walkway and direct the snow to the side.
A pusher shovel for snow can help you:
- Clear open areas quickly: Wide blades cover more surface than traditional shovels.
- Reduce repetitive lifting: Pushing requires less lifting than using a traditional scoop-style shovel.
- Handle snowfall early: Snow pushers work well when snow is cleared before it becomes heavily packed.
It may be worth considering purchasing both a snow pusher and a traditional snow shovel to prepare for the winter season. The pusher can handle long passes and light snow, and a traditional shovel is perfect for heavy buildup and clearing snow on steps, porches, and decks.
For more tools you should keep on-hand this winter, see our article: Must-Have Winter Tools & Supplies
Selecting the Best Blade Width
A wider snow pusher clears more area in a single pass, but bigger isn’t always better. A smaller blade is much easier to control and is lighter, but doesn’t allow you to clear as much snow on a pass. The right width depends on the size of the area you typically need to clear, average snow conditions, and how easily you can control the pusher.
- Narrower blades are easier to maneuver around vehicles, landscaping, gates, and tight walkways.
- Mid-size blades give you a useful balance of coverage and control for most residential surfaces.
- Large blades are great for open areas when snowfall is light enough to push comfortably.
Consider where you’ll store the snow pusher as well. A larger blade may clear an open driveway quickly, but it can be difficult to hang in a small shed or fit into a crowded garage. Check product measurements before ordering so the tool works for both your property and storage space.
Choosing the Right Pusher Shovel for Snow Removal
The right snow pusher should match the surfaces you clear, the size of the areas you need to clear, and the type of snowfall you typically get. Before choosing a snow pusher, think about these few things:
- Blade material: Poly or plastic blades are lightweight, resist rust, and are a good choice for decks, pavers, sidewalks, and routine driveway clearing. Aluminum is another lightweight option that’s a bit more durable, and steel provides the best strength and scraping ability but is heavier and may scratch surfaces.
- Blade width: Wider blades cover more ground with each pass and work well for large driveways. Narrower blades provide better maneuverability and allow less snow buildup in the blade, so it’s lighter. A mid-size blade provides a good balance between the two.
- Blade edge: Some snow pushers include a reinforced wear strip along the bottom of the blade. These can help protect the main blade during repeated use on concrete or asphalt. Check the edge material before purchasing to make sure it's appropriate for the surfaces you'll be clearing.
- Typical snowfall: Wide snow pushers are generally best for moving light to moderate accumulation in large areas. Packed or heavy snow can become difficult to move with a large pusher and may be easier to handle with a traditional snow shovel.
- Handle design: Compare the handle's length, shape, and grip. Straight handles offer better reach and leverage, but ergonomic designs may support comfort. Some larger pushers use wide bar handles that allow you to push with both hands. A cushioned grip also offers more comfortable snow removal.
- Weight and comfort: A larger, heavier snow pusher isn't necessarily better. Choose a pusher shovel you can comfortably control.
- Areas to clear: Think about all the areas you need to clear rather than choosing a blade based only on driveway size. Working around mailboxes, vehicles, steps, and other tight spaces can make an oversized pusher difficult to maneuver.
Shop Snow Pusher Shovels at Do it Best
Choose a snow pusher suited to your driveway, walkways, and winter weather. With the right pusher ready before the first snowfall, you can keep outdoor surfaces safer and easier to access this winter.
Shop snow pushers online today to get home delivery or same-day pickup at a Do it Best store near you.
Snow Pusher Shovel FAQs
Choose a width that matches your clearing area and typical snow conditions. Wider blades work well on open driveways, but narrower blades allow for better control on walkways and around obstacles. You should also consider how much weight you can handle during a session of snow removal.
Yes, but avoid scraping down into loose gravel. A poly blade or edge design that rides slightly above the surface can help reduce digging and displaced gravel.
It can move wet snow in smaller amounts, but a wide blade becomes very difficult to push when heavily loaded. Clear wet snow in narrow sections, or use a scoop-style shovel to lift if needed.