Blade refers to the scooping mechanism of the shovel — it’s usually either plastic or metal, according to Canete. “Plastic is lightweight and resists rusting,” he says. Though, in some ...

Here’s his take on a selection of shovels: Cost: $12.98, Suncast, available at Menards. Details: 18 inches wide, 2.3 pounds. Pros: With a plastic blade, it’s light and cheap. This rectangular ...