Prepare for snowy conditions this winter with a snow shovel or pusher from Ace Hardware. Whether you’re hit by a few flurries or covered under many feet of snow, our selection of essential winter shovels can help you dig out quickly. Browse manual snow shovels, wide snow pushers, ergonomic designs and kids’ shovels in plastic, aluminum and steel.
Snow Shovel Types
Snow shovels come in three primary types, each offering a unique way to remove snow from sidewalks and driveways.
- Traditional snow shovel: These snow shovels typically feature a mostly flat rectangular blade, usually 10 to 22 inches wide. The perfect sidewalk snow shovel, they’re well suited for lifting and removing snow from walking paths and smaller areas that can't be accessed by larger devices like snow blowers.
- Snow pusher: Snow pusher shovels feature a wide blade that functions more like a plow to quickly move larger amounts of snow. Pushers slide snow along the ground instead of lifting it. Pushers for driveways tend to be wide to move a lot of snow at once. Sidewalk snow pushers are narrower to avoid catching on lawns and easements.
- Combination snow shovels: Also called snow scoops or snow plow shovels, a scooped design combines the best attributes of a traditional shovel and a snow pusher. A snow plow shovel allows for both the lifting and pushing of snow without being overly large to create loads too heavy to lift.
Snow Shovel and Pusher Sizes at a Glance
Use this guide to match blade width and handle style to the job.
| Snow Shovel Type | Best For | Width Range | Handle & Design Options |
| Manual snow shovels | Walkways, steps and light driveway clearing | 10–22 in. | Ergonomic bent handle, telescoping, foldable or straight handle |
| Snow pushers | Large driveways, parking areas and open sidewalks | 18–60 in. | Standard push blade or wide commercial-grade blade |
| Car & emergency shovels | Vehicle kits and clearing snow around a parked car | 9–11 in. | Telescoping handle, combined brush and shovel |
Plastic vs Metal Snow Shovel Options
The material your shovel or pusher is made from is important for how you work. You’ll typically choose between metal and plastic models.
- Metal snow shovel: Usually made from lightweight aluminum or steel, these snow shovels are durable and can handle extremely cold temperatures. Snow tends to stick to them, which may make longer tasks more difficult. Aluminum snow shovels are good for clearing heavy snow and scraping ice. Steel is heavier but the most durable option for packed snow.
- Plastic snow shovel: Poly snow shovels are lightweight, do not warp while shoveling and snow doesn’t stick to them. They are great for clearing soft snow. However, they risk cracking under extreme cold or weight conditions.
Ergonomic Snow Shovels and Shoveling Tip
No matter which snow removal device you choose, there are some tips to keep in mind both when buying and shoveling.
- Ergonomic snow shovels feature a bent handle and are designed to be lightweight and easier to maneuver, requiring minimal stooping and bending.
- Always warm up and stretch before shoveling snow. Use proper technique to help avoid injury.
- Incorporate ice melts and ice scrapers into your winter weather management routine for optimal results when shoveling.
- If there’s excessive snowfall, consider using a snow blower to lighten your load and quickly complete difficult tasks.
Shop Snow Shovels at Ace
From large and wide snow shovels to roof rakes and more, Ace has the right snow equipment for the job, no matter your snow-clearing needs. Shop snow shovels near you at Ace from Suncast, Yeoman, Garant and other brands, or shop online for fast shipping to your home. Check your local store for snow pushers, ergonomic shovels and kids’ styles.
