Picking a Snow Shovel That Saves Your Back and Your Driveway
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The short answer
For most driveways, a 24- to 30-inch pusher shovel clears light and medium snow fastest without lifting. Add a smaller scoop shovel for the heavy pile the plow leaves at the end. On pavers, decks and stamped concrete, choose a plastic or rubber-edged blade — a steel wear strip can chip and scratch.
24-inch Snow Pusher Shovel
Fastest for clearing driveways.
Shovel types
| Type | Best for | Skip if |
|---|---|---|
| Wide pusher (24–36 in) | Long driveways, under 6 in of snow | Snow is wet and deep |
| Scoop / grain shovel | Heavy piles, the plow ridge | You have back trouble |
| Bent-handle ergonomic | Lifting and throwing with less bending | You only push snow |
| Wheeled pusher | Large flat drives | Gravel or sloped drives |
Features that matter
- Blade edge: steel strip for asphalt and plain concrete; plastic or rubber for pavers, decks and stamped surfaces.
- Handle length: the grip should reach about your hip with the blade flat, so you push without hunching.
- D-grip or a second mid-handle grip gives better control and less wrist strain.
- Lighter poly blades are easier to handle; metal-reinforced edges last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will a metal shovel damage pavers?
- A steel edge can chip paver corners and scratch sealer. Use a poly blade or rubber edge on pavers.
- What size snow shovel is best?
- A 24-inch pusher is a good all-round size; go wider only for long, flat drives with light snow.
- How do I stop snow sticking to the shovel?
- Wipe the blade with a thin coat of silicone spray or a snow-shovel coating before you start.
The Gear We’d Buy
Everything referenced in this guide, in one place.
24-inch Snow Pusher Shovel
Top pickFastest for clearing driveways.
Typically $30 - $50
Ergonomic Bent-Handle Snow Shovel
Less bending when lifting.
Typically $30 - $60
Poly Blade Shovel for Pavers & Decks
Won't chip pavers or scratch decks.
Typically $25 - $45
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Key Takeaways
- Wide pusher for the drive, scoop for the plow ridge.
- Poly or rubber edge on pavers, decks and stamped concrete.
- Shovel in smaller amounts more often.
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Top pick
24-inch Snow Pusher Shovel