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Complete any outdoor project with these functional shovels.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
We also consulted Hylan for expert insight on what to look for when shopping for a shovel.
The handle length is shorter than most of the shovels on our list.
Our top pick for the best overall shovel is theBully Tools 14-Gauge Steel Round Point Shovel.
Credit: Amazon
We appreciate its D-handle design, which offers steady control and helps reduce fatigue while you work.
The handles fiberglass construction offers a durable design that helps prevent splintering or breakage during tough jobs.
This shovel has footsteps on the left and right side to help you dig into hard ground.
Its also corrosion resistant and has a limited lifetime warranty.
The square shape may not be suitable for every outdoor project.
Its the heaviest shovel on our list at 7.98 pounds.
Credit: Amazon
If youre willing to splurge on a high-quality shovel, theCorona AS90300 All-Steel Round Point Shovelis the best choice.
The blade and handle are made out of alloy steel and are welded together, ensuring a durable design.
With a handle length of 48 inches, its comparable in length to theFiskars Square Garden Spade Shovel.
Credit: Amazon
It may not be the best shovel for heavy duty jobs.
Our pick for the best lightweight shovel is theHooyman Digging Shovel.
Since this shovel is lightweight, it may not be the best shovel for heavy duty jobs.
However, its a great option for smaller-scale gardening projects.
Its not ideal for larger outdoor projects.
For smaller gardening projects, the best handheld shovel is theMr.
Pen Heavy Duty Trowel.
We appreciate this pick for its non-slip handle and comfortable ergonomic grip.
Plus, it has a larger head thatll make it easy to move more soil.
This handheld shovel is ideal for those who want a compact yet efficient tool for low-key gardening projects.
Its plastic, so it may not be as durable as some other options.
As a bonus, it comes with a canvas bag for the ultimate portability.
However, the price makes it worth buying again if needed since its so lightweight and efficient.
Aluminum or plastic blades are usually best for snow shoveling.
Handle Material
A comfortable shovel handle can make or break your shoveling experience.
If its too short, you will be bending frequently, causing strain and exhaustion.
If a shovel is too long, your upper body wont have enough stability.
Additionally, longer shovels are heavier, which can cause extra strain.
Your Questions, Answered
How long does a shovel last?
“Proper storage is also important to extend the life of the tool.
How much does a shovel cost?
Most, however, have an average cost between $40 and $60.
Are round or square shovels better?
The most popular shovel blade shape is round, but square and taper shovels have their benefits.
Hylan says that neither is necessarily better, rather it depends on the job or project youre working on.
They’re also great for digging post holes, she says.
Square shovels have a larger blade and work well when moving heavier items like clay or sod.
They’re also better suited for leveling out areas that need grading or trenching because of their flat edges.
Who We Are
This article was written byL.
For this article, Daniela spent several hours researching the best shovels and reading customer reviews.
She also consultedLindsey Hylan, a gardening expert and founder of Urban Organic Yield.
This article was updated byBrandi Fuller, who has been an editor for Better Homes & Gardens since 2022.
She has also written about birdhouses, mouse traps, raised garden beds, greenhouse kits, and more.
