Top 10 Snow Removal Tools & Equipment for a Hassle-Free Winter

Finding the best ergonomic snow shovel is only the beginning when preparing for a long Midwest winter. When the snow piles up fast and deep, using the wrong tools can wear you down and even damage your driveway. Below, we’ll cover the 10 must-have snow removal tools, each one carefully selected to match your space, snowfall type, and comfort level. Regardless of your task, we’ll ensure you build the ideal setup to complete the job safely and efficiently.

What’s in this guide:

• Tips for choosing tools that fit your space and snowfall
• A look at 7 top-rated tools, from blowers to roof rakes
• How to shop based on comfort, power, and performance
• A complete checklist to get your garage winter-ready

Before You Buy: Matching Your Tool to Your Snowfall

Not every snow removal tool is designed for the same purpose. Before choosing one, consider your space, the type of snow in your area, and the amount of effort you want to put in.

• Area Size & Type: A small deck or patio may only need a lightweight electric shovel. However, if you’ve got a long gravel driveway, a two-stage gas snow blower is a better fit.
• Snow Type: Light, powdery snow is easier to move with a wide pusher. Wet, heavy snow packs down fast, and that’s where you’ll want a heavy-duty scoop or blower.
• Physical Ability: If shoveling takes a toll on your back, consider using ergonomic tools or powered equipment to make things easier.

Our Top 7 Snow Removal Tools for this Winter

Once you know what kind of snow and space you’re dealing with, the next step is picking the proper tools. From blowers to brooms, here are the top picks to get you through the season, safely and without extra strain.

For Heavy Drifts: The Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower

When you’re facing deep, heavy snow on a long driveway, the best snow blower for heavy snow is a two-stage snow blower. These models use an auger to break up the snow and feed it into an impeller, which then throws it up to 40 feet away. That power makes them ideal for clearing up to 16 inches of snow in a single pass. 

Unlike single-stage models, the auger on a two-stage blower doesn’t touch the ground. This makes it safe for gravel driveways or uneven terrain, where you don’t want to scrape up stones or damage the surface. 

Look for features like an electric start for cold-weather reliability and power steering to make maneuvering easier, particularly when working on slopes or in tight corners.

Product Spotlight: Ariens Two Stage Snow Blower Built for deep snow and long driveways, the Ariens Deluxe 28 in. 252cc Two-Stage Snow Blower delivers serious power, auto-turn steering, and electric start to keep you moving all winter long.

For Lighter Snow: The Wide Snow Pusher

If you’re deciding between a snow shovel vs. a snow pusher, you want to know what kind of snow you’re clearing. For light snowfalls under 6 inches, a snow pusher shovel is faster and more comfortable than lifting with a regular shovel. Simply push the snow off flat surfaces like sidewalks or driveways, with no lifting required. 

Pushers typically have a wide balance and a sturdy handle designed to reduce strain on your back and arms. They’re not made for wet, heavy snow or icy buildup. However, for light powder, they’re quick and efficient. 

Two popular options include the Big Foot 25in. Snow Pusher and the Suncast 36in. UHMW Snow Pusher, both built for durability and comfort.

For Back Safety: The Best Ergonomic Snow Shovel

If your lower back starts to ache halfway through the job, it may be time to switch to the best ergonomic snow shovel. These shovels are designed with curved or bent shafts that ensure you maintain a more upright posture while you work. Some also include a secondary "assist" handle that makes it easier to lift and toss snow without overreaching. 

In fact, bent-shaft shovels reduce stress on the lower spine by over 10%, and adding an assist handle can cut back strain by up to 30%. That makes a significant difference when you’re clearing after a heavy snowfall.

The Rugg Lite Wate Backsaver Shovel is one to consider, as it features a bent ergonomic handle and a lightweight aluminum shaft that makes lifting easier—especially for users who want to reduce fatigue without sacrificing performance.

Product Spotlight: Rugg Pathmaster Ultra 20 in Lite-Wate Backsaver Poly Snow Shovel The Rugg Lite-Wate Backsaver Shovel features a 20 in. poly blade, a bent ergonomic handle, and a lightweight aluminum shaft, offering comfort and control when clearing snow from driveways or walkways.

For Ice Dams: The Telescoping Roof Rake

When snow on your roof melts and refreezes at the edges, it forms ice dams, which are thick ridges that block water from draining correctly. This backup leads to roof leaks and expensive water damage. 

A roof rake for snow removal ensures you avoid all that by letting you pull snow off your roof from the ground. According to Rescue My Roof, clearing the first 3-4 feet of snow from the roof edge is the most effective way to prevent ice dams during freeze-thaw cycles.

The True Temper Roof Rake features a long, telescoping handle and a wide blade, making it easy to clear snow without the need for a ladder climb.

Product Spotlight: True Temper Roof Rake The True Temper 24 in. Roof Rake features a telescoping handle that extends up to 17 feet, helping you safely clear snow from your roof to prevent ice dams.

For Thick Ice: The Heavy-Duty Ice Chopper

When snow gets packed down by cars or foot traffic, it turns into dense ice that a shovel can’t handle. That’s when a heavy-duty ice chopper comes in handy. These tools feature a flat steel blade that breaks through thick ice, allowing you to scrape it away.

To avoid damaging your concrete or pavers, it’s recommended to strike at a shallow angle instead of straight down. Let the weight of the tool do the work, as there’s no need to swing it hard.

The Truper Pro 7 in. Forged Heavy Duty Scraper is a solid option if you’re dealing with regular freeze-thaw cycles or ice buildup in high-traffic areas.

Product Spotlight: Truper Tru Pro 7 in Forged Heavy-Duty Scraper The Truper Pro scraper features a forged steel blade and durable handle, designed to chip through tough ice without wearing you out.

For Your Driveway: Salt & Ice Melt

Choosing the ideal deicer depends on temperature, surface type, and pets. Let’s compare the most common types:

• Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt): Works down to about 15°F. It’s affordable but can be rough on concrete and irritating to pet paws.
• Magnesium Chloride: Gentle on concrete and less harsh for pets. Works down to –13°F and is the main ingredient in many pet-safe ice melt products. 
• Organic Ice Melt (Sugar Beet Extract): A newer option that’s non-toxic, plant-friendly, and safe for pets and concrete. Effective in temperatures as low as -30°F, this is a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners or families with pets.

Though magnesium chloride is often used in blends labeled “pet-friendly,” it’s still a good idea to wash pet paws after contact.

Product Spotlight: Safe Step Dual Blend 4300 Magnesium Chloride/Sodium Chloride Granule Ice Melt Dual Blend 50 lb Ice Melt is Fleet Farm’s best-selling option. It’s effective down to -7°F, works faster than traditional salt, and is gentler on concrete—making it a smart upgrade from standard rock salt.

For Your Vehicle: The Extendable Snow Broom

If your car is parked outside, clearing just the windshield isn’t enough. Snow left on the roof slides off while driving, blocking your view or hitting another car. A snow broom for cars makes it easy to clear the entire vehicle safely. 

These brooms feature a soft, non-scratch foam head and a long, extendable handle so you can reach across hoods, roofs, and truck beds. Many models also include a built-in ice scraper for windows and mirrors.

The Sub-Zero Snow Broom is a great all-in-one tool to keep in your garage or vehicle all winter long.

Product Spotlight: Sub-Zero Snow Broom The Sub-Zero Avalanche Extreme Snow Broom features a 52 in. extendable handle and foam head, letting you clear snow from your car’s roof and windshield without scratching the surface.

Your Complete Winter Shopping Checklist

Ice Scrapers & Snow Brushes

• Extendable Snow Brooms
• Compact Ice Scrapers
• Heavy-Duty Scrapers

Snow Removal Tools & Supplies for Cars

• Folding/Collapsible Emergency Shovels
• Windshield De-Icer Spray
• Traction Mats
• Exterior Windshield Covers

Salt & Ice Melt

• Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt)
• Calcium Chloride Blends
• Pet-Safe / Concrete-Safe Blends
• Handheld Spreaders

Snow Blowers

• Two-Stage Gas-Powered Blowers
• Single-Stage Gas-Powered Blowers
• Battery-Powered (Cordless) Snow Blowers
• Electric Snow Shovels (Corded)

Prepare for Winter at Your Local Fleet Farm

Tackling winter weather doesn’t have to be a chore. With the proper snow removal tools on hand, you can clear your driveway, sidewalks, roof, and car quickly and safely, all without wearing yourself out. 

Key Takeaways

• A two-stage snow blower is the best pick for clearing deep snow from large or uneven areas.
• For light snow, wide snow pushers are faster and easier on your back than lifting.
• Ergonomic shovels and assist handles reduce strain during heavy clearing.
• Roof rakes prevent ice dams by safely removing snow from the edges of your roof.
• Choosing the proper ice melt makes a difference for concrete surfaces and pet safety.

Next Steps

• Check your garage for worn-out tools or missing gear before the first storm hits.
• Match your equipment to your space, snow type, and comfort level.
• Shop early for snow blowers and ice melt, as popular items can sell out fast.
• Pick up extras like windshield de-icer, traction mats, and a folding shovel for your car.
• Visit your local Fleet Farm or browse online to stock up before snow starts falling.

Ready to get winter-ready? Find everything you need for snow removal at Fleet Farm!

FAQs

When should I salt my driveway, before or after it snows?

Salt is most effective after shoveling, especially to help loosen ice. Avoid salting before snowfalls, as it often gets washed away or removed during cleanup. For ice storms, use a brine instead to prevent ice from bonding.

How deep should the snow be before I shovel?

You should start shoveling when snow reaches about 2 inches. Waiting longer can make the job harder, especially if it’s wet or begins to refreeze.

How do you keep snow from sticking to a shovel?

Spray the blade with cooking spray or apply a light coat of car wax. Both reduce friction and help snow slide off more easily.

Is it better to shovel snow when it's wet or dry?

It’s easier to shovel dry snow. Wet snow is heavier and more likely to cause strain, so if a storm starts as powder, clear it before it gets soaked.

What happens if you don't salt your driveway?

Untreated surfaces can ice over quickly, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Ice buildup also becomes harder to remove and can damage concrete over time.