Getting your car buried in snow is the worst. I remember one winter when I was already late for work, and my little sedan was completely encased. Digging it out with my hands was not fun! A good snow shovel designed for cars can save you a ton of time and backache. These shovels are compact, lightweight, and built to maneuver around tight spaces. So, let’s look at some of the best options to keep in your trunk this winter.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Snow MOOver Extendable Snow Shovel: Best overall, lightweight, adjustable.
- Hopkins SubZero 16621 Ice Crusher Pivoting Head Snow Shovel: Best for ice, strong head, pivoting feature.
- Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel: Best for small cars, compact, durable aluminum.
- Snow Joe SJ-SHLV01 Shovelution: Best ergonomic design, reduces strain, comfortable grip.
- Wirthschaft Folding Shovel: Best budget option, folds for easy storage, decent performance.
Top 5 Best Snow Shovels For Car Reviews
1. Snow MOOver Extendable Snow Shovel
The Snow MOOver is a great all-around snow shovel for your car. It’s lightweight, made of durable plastic, and extends to give you extra reach when you need it. Plus, it’s easy to store in your trunk.
Pros:
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✅ Extendable handle for added reach
- ✅ Durable plastic blade
Cons:
- ❌ Plastic blade may not be ideal for heavy, packed snow
- ❌ Extension mechanism can sometimes feel a little flimsy
- ❌ Not the widest blade; might take more passes to clear large areas
Verdict: A solid choice for most car owners looking for a lightweight and adjustable snow shovel.
2. Hopkins SubZero 16621 Ice Crusher Pivoting Head Snow Shovel
This shovel is a beast when it comes to ice and packed snow. The pivoting head lets you get the right angle for breaking up tough ice, and the steel scraper helps you clear it away. I used one of these after a particularly nasty ice storm, and it was a lifesaver.
Pros:
- ✅ Pivoting head for optimal ice breaking
- ✅ Steel ice scraper for removing stubborn ice
- ✅ Durable construction
Cons:
- ❌ Heavier than plastic shovels
- ❌ Pivoting mechanism adds complexity and potential failure points
- ❌ Can scratch paint if you’re not careful
Verdict: Best for those who frequently deal with icy conditions and need a heavy-duty solution.
3. Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel
The Lifeline Aluminum shovel is super compact, making it perfect for smaller cars or when you’re tight on trunk space. Don’t let the size fool you, though; the aluminum construction makes it surprisingly sturdy. I keep one of these in my wife’s Mini Cooper, and it’s been a lifesaver on several occasions.
Pros:
- ✅ Very compact and easy to store
- ✅ Durable aluminum construction
- ✅ Lightweight
Cons:
- ❌ Smaller blade size requires more passes
- ❌ Shorter handle may require more bending over
- ❌ Not ideal for extremely heavy snow
Verdict: An excellent choice for those needing a compact and durable shovel for light to moderate snow.
4. Snow Joe SJ-SHLV01 Shovelution
If you’re tired of back pain after shoveling, the Snow Joe Shovelution is worth a look. Its ergonomic design and spring-assisted handle help reduce strain on your back and shoulders. I have a bad back, so this shovel really appealed to me. It does make a noticeable difference.
Pros:
- ✅ Ergonomic design reduces back strain
- ✅ Spring-assisted handle provides extra leverage
- ✅ Comfortable grip
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than basic shovels
- ❌ Spring mechanism adds weight
- ❌ May take some getting used to the spring action
Verdict: Ideal for those with back problems or anyone who wants to make snow shoveling easier on their body.
5. Wirtschaft Folding Shovel
For those on a budget, the Wirtschaft Folding Shovel is a decent option. It folds up for easy storage and is made of steel for reasonable durability. It won’t win any awards, but it’ll get the job done in a pinch. It is a good option if you want to keep a shovel in your car for emergencies without spending too much.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable
- ✅ Folds up for compact storage
- ✅ Steel construction
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as more expensive options
- ❌ Smaller blade size
- ❌ Folding mechanism may wear out over time
Verdict: A budget-friendly option for occasional use and emergency situations.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right snow shovel for your car depends on a few factors. Here’s what to consider:
- Material: Plastic shovels are lightweight and affordable, but may not be as durable for heavy, packed snow or ice. Aluminum shovels are stronger and more durable, but can be more expensive. Steel shovels are the most durable but also the heaviest.
- Size and Weight: Look for a shovel that’s compact and lightweight enough to easily store in your car trunk. A smaller blade size may require more passes, but it’s easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Handle Length: Consider the handle length to avoid excessive bending, which can strain your back. Extendable handles offer versatility.
- Ergonomics: If you have back problems or frequently shovel snow, look for a shovel with an ergonomic design or spring-assisted handle to reduce strain.
- Special Features: Some shovels come with features like pivoting heads for ice breaking or steel ice scrapers. Determine if these features are necessary for your needs.
- Budget: Snow shovels range in price from very affordable to more expensive. Set a budget and find the best option within your price range.
FAQs
Q: How should I store a snow shovel in my car?
A: Keep it in your trunk, ideally secured so it doesn’t slide around. Folding shovels are especially convenient for storage.
Q: What is the best material for a snow shovel blade?
A: It depends on your needs. Plastic is lightweight and good for fluffy snow, while aluminum and steel are better for heavier, packed snow and ice.
Q: Can I use a regular snow shovel for my car?
A: While you can, it’s not ideal. Regular snow shovels are often too large and bulky to maneuver around a car effectively. Car snow shovels are designed to be more compact and easier to use in tight spaces.
Q: How important is an ergonomic design?
A: It’s very important if you frequently shovel snow or have back problems. An ergonomic design can significantly reduce strain and prevent injuries.
Q: What if I only need a shovel for occasional use?
A: A budget-friendly folding shovel should suffice for occasional use and emergency situations.
Conclusion
Don’t let a snow-covered car ruin your day. Investing in a good snow shovel designed for cars can save you time, effort, and back pain. Consider your needs and budget, and choose the shovel that’s right for you. Whether it’s the all-around performance of the Snow MOOver, the ice-crushing power of the Hopkins SubZero, or the compact convenience of the Lifeline Aluminum shovel, there’s an option out there to fit every car owner’s needs.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
