How to Choose the Right Snow Shovel for Heavy Canadian Winters

If you handle any snow clearing yourself — whether it is your front steps, a walkway, or topping up between professional plowing visits — having the right shovel makes a big difference in both effectiveness and safety.

Types of Snow Shovels

1. Standard Flat Shovel

Best for: Moderate snowfalls on flat surfaces like driveways and sidewalks.

The classic flat-bladed shovel works well for pushing and lifting snow. Choose one with a wide blade (18–24 inches) for efficiency.

2. Ergonomic Bent-Handle Shovel

Best for: Reducing back strain during extended shoveling sessions.

The bent handle design allows you to shovel without bending as far, reducing strain on your lower back. Highly recommended for anyone who shovels regularly.

3. Pusher Shovel

Best for: Light to moderate snowfalls on large flat areas.

Pusher shovels have a wide, curved blade designed to push snow rather than lift it. They are extremely efficient for clearing large areas of light snow.

4. Scoop Shovel

Best for: Deep, heavy snowfalls.

Deep-bladed scoop shovels move large volumes of snow per load. They work well after heavy storms when snow is piled high.

5. Sleigh Shovel (Snow Scoop)

Best for: Moving large volumes of snow short distances.

These have a deep bucket on runners. You push them along the ground, scoop up snow, and slide it to where you want it dumped.

What to Look For

Material

Plastic blades: Lightweight, affordable, and will not scratch surfaces. Best for most homeowners.

Aluminum blades: Lightweight and more durable than plastic. Good all-around choice.

Steel blades: Heaviest but most durable. Best for scraping packed snow and ice.

Handle Length

A handle that is too short forces you to bend more, increasing back strain. Stand the shovel next to you — the handle should reach your mid-chest or higher.

Weight

Lighter is generally better, especially for longer shoveling sessions. Remember that you will be lifting the weight of the shovel plus the snow on it, many times over.

Non-Stick Coating

Some shovels feature a non-stick coating on the blade that prevents snow from sticking. This small feature makes shoveling noticeably easier.

Safe Shoveling Tips

Warm up first: Light stretching before shoveling reduces injury risk

Push instead of lift when possible

Bend at the knees, not the waist, when lifting

Take breaks every 15–20 minutes

Stay hydrated — shoveling is a vigorous workout

Do not twist your body when throwing snow — turn your whole body instead

Shovel early and often — clearing 5 cm twice is easier than clearing 10 cm once

When to Leave It to the Professionals

For many Ontario homeowners, hiring professional snow removal is simply the smarter choice. It saves time, eliminates the physical strain and injury risk, and ensures your property is safely cleared before you even step outside. Expert Property Care offers reliable, affordable snow removal services across Georgetown and the GTA. Contact us for a free seasonal quote.