Because of recent innovations, finding the best snow shovel requires considerations like plastic versus metal, handle height and shape, ergonomics and whether you’ll scoop snow or push it around ...

Without a secondary handle, straight-shaft shovels are tough on the back. With the shorter models, the tallest testers had to bend over to at least 90 degrees at the waist just to load a scoop.

The Bully shovel’s handle doesn’t swell at the fore and aft grips, as many shovel handles do. This did not bother me, and it might even be an advantage for those with smaller hands.

All but one of the shovels on this list have an ergonomic, D-shaped handle and a handful of them have a curved body toward the bottom. Ergie Steel Shaft Impact Resistant Snow Shovel $42.91 at ...

Power snow shovels resemble a smaller version of a single-stage electric snow blower without wheels. Most are only about 1 foot wide, while snow blowers usually have a width of 21 to 30 inches.

Most electric snow shovels can only handle snow depths up to 6 inches and lack the power to handle heavier slushy snows. ... which will be 100 feet at most without an extension cord.

Shovel handles, on the other hand, are more likely to be smooth without any grip at all. ... or metal handles. However, specialized shovels and spades can be made of different materials too.

Buy a shovel with an adjustable handle, or try it out in the store first. The blade should touch the ground with just a slight bend in your knees and without you having to lean too far forward.

Best overall Snow Joe SJ-SHLV01 Shovelution Strain-Reducing Snow Shovel See It Best electric Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Snow Shovel See It ...