Snow shovelling is tough work. According to FEMA’s Snow Load Safety Guide, “The weight of 1 foot of fresh snow ranges from 3 pounds per square foot for light, dry snow to 21 pounds per square foot for wet, heavy snow.”  

Thus, when you are clearing a 16ft by 30ft driveway (average for most driveways) covered in one foot of wet snow, you are moving approximately four tons of snow. Even a smal path of  3 X 15 feet dimensions with 1 feet of snow means you are shovelling out 400 pounds of snow.

Not surprisingly, shovelling is tough work. It puts your back and arms under strain. 

A 2011 study, done over 17 years, by The American Journal of Emergency Medicine  found that Americans suffer an average of 11,500 injuries and emergencies each year due to snow shoveling. More than half (54%) of the injuries are about acute musculoskeletal exertion - in other words, pulling muscles and throwing out their back.

You need good snow shovels to help your cause in the snow.

The best snow shovel: True Temper 18-inch Ergonomic Mountain Mover (light weight, aluminum build, ergonomic, useful on steps, sidewalks, patios, decks, and any other outdoor areas)

The best ergonomic snow shovel handle: Trentco ProHandle (for any shovel shaft) - Putting in a secnd handle provides an extra level and means less strain for you.

The second best snow shovel: Suncast SCP3500 Powerblade Combo (wider scoop, not as ergonomic as top pick)

The best snow shovel for sidewalks and paved driveways: True Temper 20-inch Aluminum Combo Snow Shovel (metal scoop, not for uneven ground obviously)

The best snow shovel for cars: Voilé Telepro Avalanche Shovel (compact, easy to disassemble, great for roadside emergencies, pricey)