Even though you have a painful back, you’ll have to use a snow shovel every now and then. Feeling some pain and discomfort is inevitable because shoveling snow is a challenge for most people. However, some of the pain might be due to using the wrong tool.
In this article, you’ll know everything about using the best snow shovels for a bad back. You’ll also learn how to pick the appropriate tool that doesn’t strain your back.
Snow Shovel Reviews and Buyer’s Guide
Picking the right snow shovel will help you control the pain while doing a difficult task. Luckily, there are some good models on the market that you can check to make your job easier.
Snow Joe SJ-SHLV01 Shovelution Strain-Reducing Snow Shovel
Designed to reduce strain and pain, this shovel features a spring-assist handle that minimizes pressure while you’re shoveling snow. The handle is like a hinge or fulcrum to add more support for an easy job. Moreover, this shovel improves your posture as it minimizes the need to bend which can cause lower back pain.
A wide 18-inch shovel blade is what you need to finish your job fast. It features an aluminum wear strip for more durability.
The durable impact-resistant propylene blade will last for long. Although this shovel is quite affordable, it’s good value for money. The lower hand helps you to lift more without imposing much pressure. Thanks to this shovel, you can lift bigger loads with ease.
This is a lightweight snow shovel weighing 2 pounds. It returns to its original shape after you toss snow away to minimize the energy. It comes in 2 colors.
Due to its construction, you should go easy on the shovel while trying to scrape harder snow. The handle shaft is quite thin, so you shouldn’t try to scoop an enormous load.
What We Like
- Lightweight shovel.
- Impact-resistant blade with an aluminum strip for more durability.
- Ergonomic spring-assist handle.
- Minimizes the need to bend.
What We Don’t Like
- The blade isn’t sturdy enough to scrape hard snow.
- Not designed to carry heavy loads.
Suncast SC3250 18-Inch Snow Shovel
With a long 52.5-inch handle, this snow shovel minimizes the need to bend while carrying snow. The handle is ergonomically bent and carries a big load conveniently. The core of the handle is made of ribbed steel so it doesn’t break easily.
If you’re willing to pay the higher price, you can enjoy the sturdiness of this poly-coated blade. It features a galvanized steel strip that protects the blade from wear. This shovel weighs 4.2 pounds.
Because of the S-shaped handle, you’ll be able to handle more load than a straight handle. Moreover, it won’t bend under the pressure guaranteeing that your shovel will last for a long time. The blade measures 18 X 12 inches so it’s big enough to help you finish the job fast.
Learning how to stand straight while using this shovel might not be quite easy at the beginning, but it gets easier with practice. It has some scoop to it, so you’ll be able to lift the snow while reducing the pressure and strain on your back. Taller people might find the handle a bit short.
What We Like
- Durable blade with a galvanized steel wear- wrap.
- Big poly-coated blade.
- S-shaped handle.
- Reduces the strain on the back.
What We Don’t Like
- Using the blade might not feel easy at the beginning.
- Handle is too short for taller people.
True Temper 1625300 SnoBoss 26 in. Poly Snow Shovel
If you’re looking for a snow shovel that you can use with both hands, then you should check this one out. It features a multi-grip handle for optimal hand placement that helps you keep your back straight while shoveling snow.
The ergonomic handle is made of durable yet lightweight aluminum that doesn’t much pressure or weight. There’s a footstep that gives you maximum leverage, reducing the strain on your back. The shovel is made of resin and steel and measures 57 inches so it suits taller people.
You can use this shovel in multiple positions thanks to its design. It’s reversible for tight steps and stairs. It can be used to push, chop or shovel all snow in no time.
Using the edge of the head, you can chop snow. The blade is 26 inches deep with a wear strip that doesn’t break easily. It’s bigger than other snow shovels on the market and weighs 5.6 pounds.
The metallic strip isn’t very durable, but it can be easily replaced. This is not a stand-alone shovel so it will tip over easily.
What We Like
- Wide and deep blade.
- Multi-grip handle for various positions.
- Reduces the strain on the back.
- Reversible design for tight steps.
What We Didn’t Like
- Blade guard doesn’t last for long.
- Not a stand-alone shovel.
Picking the Best Snow Shovel for Bad Backs: How It’s Done
Here are a few tips that help you pick the right tool to make your snow shoveling a breeze — even when you have a bad back.
Size of Blade
The size of the blade affects the weight of the shovel and the amount of snow that you can carry in one scoop. A bigger blade will finish the job faster but might not suit someone with back problems.
Handle Length
A long handle might be easier to handle, putting less pressure on your back. A bent or S-shaped handle puts less pressure on your back.
Material
If the shovel is made of metals and heavyweight materials, it will be more durable. However, it will be more difficult to handle. Polymers and resins are sturdy without being too heavy.
Our Pick for the Best Snow Shovel Is…
Having a bad back doesn’t mean that you can’t find a good shovel to carry snow easily. We chose the Snow Joe SJ-SHLV01 Shovelution Strain-Reducing Snow Shovel as the best snow shovel for a bad back because it’s extremely lightweight. It won’t strain your back as you try to clear the snow away.
Picking a comfortable yet practical snow shovel is a matter of personal choice. We hope to have clarified any questions you had with our snow shovel reviews. All-in-all, look for easy-to-handle shovels that won’t put extra pressure on your muscles and snow shoveling will be easy-peasy.