How to choose the best shovel for you?

4th March 2020

	How to choose the best shovel for you


	Shop for Shovels


			As we have seen, there is no clear-cut answer. It depends on your frame and the task you wish to do. There are four main things to consider that will contribute to the functionality of the shovel and your physical well-being.


			1) Match your strength
			If you’re not particularly powerful, then opt for a plastic or aluminium blade with a small scoop and a wooden shaft that won’t wear you out during prolonged periods. For a stronger person, a steel blade with a wider scoop and a fibreglass or steel shaft will stand the test of time while offering maximum performance.

			2) Match your height
			Someone tall using a short shovel is back pain in the making. Opt for a shovel of around 1.4m (54″) or over in length. Likewise, using a shovel with too long a shaft and you will not be able to obtain enough leverage to lift without straining. For petite frames, an overall length of 760mm (30″) is suitable. The ideal length of a shovel should be mid-chest height.

			3) Match your hands
			If you have ever suffered from arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, you will understand the need for comfort. Most shovels are fitted with a D or T-grip at the end of the shaft. Either style offers support. However, if you have very large hands and are unable to find a large enough D-grip to accommodate them then you may find the T-grip a better choice.

			Some users also prefer the T-grip to be more rounded and have a slight downward angle than the traditional straight T-shape. Look for cushioned grips for comfort.

			4) Match the job
			Consider the shape of the blade in relation to the task For example, a square mouth blade has been designed predominantly for shifting loose material. However, its square design would struggle when digging and cutting into compacted material.

			The size of the blade should be taken into account when shovelling For example, a blade with a wide, deep scoop is ideal for shifting loose, dry material such as sand, grain or ash. Whereas heavy, wet or compacted material such as snow or cement is better suited to a narrower blade to avoid overburdening your body.

			Check the angle of the blade Remember, a ‘flat’ blade (low lift) with a minimal angle is suited to digging. Whereas an ‘angled’ blade (high lift) will give the extra rise needed when shovelling.

			Consider what the blade is made from Plastic is ideal for shovelling loose material such as snow and grain. It is also extremely lightweight for those with small frames. Although it won’t offer long-term use, neither will it break the bank.

			If your budget and strength allow, opt for a strong steel blade for heavy digging or shovelling dense material.

			An aluminium blade is suitable for most shovelling and basic gardening tasks. It offers the right balance between weight, durability and value for money.

			Consider what the shaft is made from A choice of wood, fibreglass or steel will usually make up the shaft. All three materials offer quality, performance and a long life although each have their own pros and cons. For instance, fibreglass is weatherproof and resistant to splintering and rusting unlike wood. However, wood is lightweight and is supple enough to eventually mould to your grip.

			How is the blade attached to the shaft? This is particularly important if you opt for a steel blade. If your budget allows, choose a solid socket connection over an open socket as this will stand up to continuous, heavy-duty use.

			Consider the length of the shaft for the task For digging deep holes and trenches, an extra-long shovel will save you hours of bending over whereas a short shovel is perfect for working in small areas or in a greenhouse.

			And finally… …if your budget allows, invest in multiple models with varied applications in mind.