Types of Snow Shovels at Do it Best
Different shovel styles work better for specific areas and snow conditions. Consider where you’ll use your shovel most often and how much snow your area typically receives. Do it Best offers the following types of snow shovels:
Shovel Type | Best For | Key Features | Applications |
Everyday residential snow removal | Medium-width blade, manageable weight, straight or ergonomic handle | Sidewalks, steps, patios, and small driveways | |
Dense, packed, and frequently cleared areas | Reinforced blade, durable handle, wear-resistant edge | Driveways, entrances, and areas with heavy buildup | |
Moving larger amounts of light snow | Deep blade with more carrying capacity | Wide walkways, parking areas, and open spaces | |
Fresh snow and delicate outdoor surfaces | Rust-resistant plastic blade, lightweight | Decks, pavers, porches, and light snow buildup |
How to Choose a Snow Shovel
Start by considering where you’ll use the shovel most often. A smaller blade provides better control on stairs and walkways, but a deeper blade can carry more snow across wide open areas. If you have a long driveway, you want to balance the snow removal capacity with a weight you can lift comfortably.
Compare these features before making a purchase:
- Blade Width: Wider blades cover more surface, but they’re heavier when filled with snow. Narrower blades are easier to maneuver but offer less capacity.
- Blade Material: Poly blades are lightweight, rust-resistant, and work well for finished surfaces. Aluminum is not as low-weight as poly blades, but the blade is more rigid for better removal. Steel is the most durable, but it’s heavier and more likely to mark or scratch surfaces.
- Edge Design: A wear strip can help the blade handle rough pavement. A non-metal edge is a better choice for decks, porches, and surfaces where scratching might be a concern.
- Handle Shape: Straight handles are the traditional design, offering the best leverage and extended reach. Curved, ergonomic handles are built for comfort and can reduce how far you need to bend when removing snow.
- Tool Weight and Size: A heavy duty snow shovel provides extra durability and capacity, but a lightweight shovel can be more comfortable for a long winter season. A heavy duty shovel is also typically heavier, so it may be harder to operate.
Be Prepared for Winter With the Right Tools
One snow shovel may work for basic cleanup, but having more than one type can make it easier to handle changing snowfall and different areas around your property. Think about the different areas you'll regularly need to clear and choose shovels that give you different options when you need them. Depending on your property, your snow removal setup could include:
- A snow pusher for quickly clearing light snow from driveways or long walkways.
- A traditional snow shovel for everyday scooping and lifting snow from steps, entrances, porches, and smaller areas.
- A heavy duty snow shovel for removing heavier snowfall or large buildup quickly.
Shovels are only part of a snow removal setup that’s prepared for winter. You may also want to keep snow and ice melt on hand for ice buildup, an ice scraper and snow brush for vehicles, and roof rakes to safely remove snow from roof edges.
Shop Snow Shovels Online at Do it Best
Whether you only need a lightweight option for small walkways, a snow scoop for open areas, or a heavy-duty model for regular driveway cleanup, Do it Best has a tool that fits the job. Browse our full snow shovel collection online and take advantage of home delivery or same day pickup at a local Do it Best store.
Snow Shovel FAQs
It depends on the surface and type of snow. Poly blades are lightweight, resist rust, and work well on decks, pavers, and other delicate, outdoor areas. Metal blades are more rigid and provide better durability, but may be heavier and more likely to scratch surfaces.
Choose a width that matches both the clearing area and your lifting ability. Narrow blades give you better control in tight spaces and are less heavy. Wider, deeper blades can carry more snow across open areas but can’t fit tight spaces easily.
A snow scoop has a deep blade that holds more snow than many standard snow shovel styles. It’s best for carrying loose snow away from walkways, parking areas, and other open surfaces.
Consider replacement when the blade is cracked, the handle is loose or bent, the edge is severely worn, or the grip is no longer secure. A damaged tool can be harder to control and less effective when removing snow.