Best Gardening Shovels of 2026

Steven Taylor Avatar
Steven Taylor
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2026

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Gardening shovels are an essential tool for every gardener, whether they are professional or just starting out. These shovels are specially designed to help with digging, planting, and moving soil and other materials around the garden. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including long-handled shovels for deeper digging and small handheld shovels for precise work. Some gardening shovels even have special features, such as sharpened edges for cutting through tough soil or serrated edges for digging through roots. With a good quality gardening shovel, any gardening task becomes easier and more efficient.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel Cover #TOP 1
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Garden Weasel Potting Scoop 91362 Cover #TOP 2
Garden Weasel Potting Scoop 91362
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AMES Poly Scoop with Hardwood Handle and D-Grip Cover #TOP 3
AMES Poly Scoop with Hardwood Handle and D-Grip
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Gardening Shovels

RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel

NOVASAT-0409-1513-15
Black
Military 22" E-tool
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel Cover
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick - Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow.

The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel is a heavy-duty carbon steel military style entrenching tool designed for off-roading, camping, gardening, beach digging, and more. It features a tough pickaxe and sharp saw teeth, and folds into a 9" x 6" carry case for easy portability. Customers praise its sturdy construction and multi-functional use, though some note that it is not the most lightweight shovel for backpacking.

What We Like
Heavy-duty build quality
Compact and portable design
Versatile multi-tool functions
Reliable storage bag
Strong lockable joints
What We Don't Like
Shovel position may shift
Storage bag durability
#TOP 2

Garden Weasel Potting Scoop 91362

91362
156 cubic inches
Garden Weasel Potting Scoop 91362 Cover
Garden Weasel Potting Scoop - Oversized | Dig and Transport | Planting and Gardening Hand Digging Tools, Heavy Duty Soil Scoop, Mini Gardening Shovel | 91362

The Garden Weasel Scoop is designed for efficient gardening tasks. Its serrated tip helps you break up tough soil clumps and cut through roots, making planting easier. The large scoop features tall sides that minimize spillage while transferring soil, enhancing your planting experience. Built with high-quality materials, this tool promises durability for years of reliable use. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring your investment is protected against defects. With strong customer service support, you can feel confident in your purchase and get any assistance you need.

What We Like
Sturdy heavy-duty construction
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Large scoop capacity
Serrated edge for cutting roots
Easy to clean and spot
What We Don't Like
A bit heavy for small hands
May cause wrist fatigue
#TOP 3

AMES Poly Scoop with Hardwood Handle and D-Grip

2682700
Multicolor
46-Inch
AMES Poly Scoop with Hardwood Handle and D-Grip Cover
AMES 46-Inch Poly Scoop with Hardwood Handle and Ergonomic D-Grip, Ideal for Garden Care, Landscaping, Moving Shavings or Grain, Farming Tasks, and Heavy-Duty Yard Work

The AMES Poly Scoop with Hardwood Handle and D-Grip, 46-Inch, features a large poly D-grip that offers leverage and control, allowing you to lift and transfer stone, soil, and grain with ease. The hardwood handle is strong and durable, while also providing a comfortable grip. This scoop is well-suited for lawn and garden tasks, as well as farm and agricultural uses.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Sturdy construction
Versatile usage
Safe for delicate surfaces
Wide shovel opening
What We Don't Like
Less effective on ice
Plastic may eventually crack
#TOP 4

Radius Garden Root Slayer Shovel

Root Slayer
22011
Root Slayer (Red)
Radius Garden Root Slayer Shovel Cover
Root Slayer 22011, Shovel, Red

The Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel is a serrated shovel designed to reduce stress on your hands and wrists while digging. Its V-shaped cutting tip easily rips through roots and dirt, and its durable powder-coated carbon steel tip is suitable for any garden task. It comes with a lifetime manufacturer warranty (continental US only).

What We Like
Excellent for cutting roots
Heavy-duty, sturdy construction
Innovative saw-toothed blade
Comfortable round handle
Easy to use for tough jobs
What We Don't Like
Narrow blade for moving dirt
Slightly high price
#TOP 5

Fiskars Steel D-Handle Flat Square Garden Spade

96676933J
Black,Orange
46 Inch
Fiskars Steel D-Handle Flat Square Garden Spade Cover
Fiskars 46" Spade Garden Shovel, Steel Flat Spade with Ergonomic D-Handle, Sharp Blade Square Shovel for Lawn Edging, Digging, Heavy Duty Yard Tool, Easy Cuts in Grass and Turf

The Fiskars Steel D-Handle Flat Square Garden Spade is designed for edging, cutting a trench, slicing through thick turf or digging. It features a welded 14-gauge hardened steel blade and 18-gauge steel shaft for durability, an extra-large D-handle and foot platform for secure two-handed control, and a sharpened blade for easier gardening. Customers have praised its strength and durability, as well as its ability to cut through tough soil and break up hardened dirt clods.

What We Like
Sturdy, durable construction
Sharp, effective blade edge
Comfortable handle grip
Good for edging and digging
Lightweight yet strong
What We Don't Like
Handle may be less durable
Higher price point
#TOP 6

Hooyman Mini Transfer Shovel

1190381
Black/Green
One Size
Hooyman Mini Transfer Shovel Cover
Hooyman Mini Transfer Shovel with Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Construction, Ergonomic No-Slip H-Grip Handles, D Handle, and Oversized Steps for Gardening, Land Management, Yardwork, Farming, and Outdoors

The Hooyman Mini Shovel is designed for durability and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for your gardening and yardwork needs. Its heavy-duty carbon steel head ensures it can handle tough tasks like scooping dirt, rocks, or mulch without bending or breaking. You’ll appreciate the no-slip H-Grip handle, which provides a secure hold, even in wet conditions. The square blade shape allows for efficient scooping, while the D handle and oversized steps give you extra leverage and stability, making your outdoor projects less strenuous.

What We Like
Lightweight ergonomic design
Compact, space-saving size
Durable strong construction
Reduces back strain
Versatile for multiple uses
What We Don't Like
Sticker residue on shovel head
#TOP 7

DIOVPLX 31-Inch Garden Shovel

Tiechan-YGH-32WBS@#JZGZ
Black
31 inches
DIOVPLX 31-Inch Garden Shovel Cover
Shovel, Garden Shovel for Digging, 31 inch Small Shovels Heavy Duty Portable Mini Spade with Curved D-Handle for Gardening, Digging, Camping, Car, Kids Sand Beach Shovels

The DIOVPLX Mini Shovel is a versatile tool perfect for various gardening tasks. Its 31-inch size is ideal for tight spaces, making it easy for you to store and transport. The ergonomic curved D-handle ensures a comfortable grip, allowing you to shovel with less effort while protecting your hands from slips. Made from heavy-duty metal, this sturdy shovel features a sharpened blade that simplifies digging, weeding, and transplanting. Whether you're gardening at home or enjoying outdoor activities, this mini shovel is a reliable companion for all your needs throughout the year.

What We Like
Sturdy build quality
Compact and portable size
Ergonomic D-handle grip
Easy to assemble
Versatile for multiple uses
What We Don't Like
Minor assembly difficulty
No handle padding
#TOP 8

QWORK 2 Pack 1-1/4" Polypropylene Spade Handle

WD34276
QWORK 2 Pack 1-1/4" Polypropylene Spade Handle Cover
QWORK 2 Pack 1-1/4" Polypropylene Plastic Spade Handle Shovel D Grip Handle for Digging Raking Tools

The QWORK Polypropylene Spade Handles are designed for durability and comfort. Made from sturdy polypropylene, these handles offer long-lasting use without wearing out quickly, so you can rely on them for many gardening tasks. They fit shovels with a 1-1/4 inch diameter, making installation simple—just slide the handle onto your shovel for a secure fit. The smooth surface ensures there are no rough edges, providing a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue while you work. Plus, you get two handles in a pack, perfect for replacing old ones or sharing with a friend.

What We Like
Durable polypropylene material
Fits 1-1/4 inch shovels
Easy installation
Comfortable, smooth grip
Two handles per pack
#TOP 9

PETCTN Baolaili Bonsai Soil Scoop

PETCTN
Black
PETCTN Baolaili Bonsai Soil Scoop Cover
Baolaili Bonsai Soil Scoops, Plastic Garden Soil Scoops, Black, Classic, Ergonomic Grip

The PETCTN Soil Scoop is designed to make your gardening tasks easier and more efficient. Its user-friendly design helps you save time and effort while handling soil. Made from durable plastic, this scoop is lightweight and portable, so you can easily carry it around your garden. It’s also simple to clean, which means less hassle after use. Whether you’re working with bonsai soil or other potted plants, this versatile scoop adapts well to different types of soil, making it a handy tool for any plant lover.

What We Like
Easy soil placement
Reduces mess
Perfect for small pots
Sturdy and lightweight
Good value
What We Don't Like
May be small for some
#TOP 10

VNIMTI Round Shovel

Wood
41 inches
VNIMTI Round Shovel Cover
Shovel for Digging,Round Shovel, Garden Tool with D-Handle, 41 Inches in Overall Length, Wooden Handel Garden Shovel,Beach Shovel, Car Snow Shovel

The VNIMTI Round Shovel is a versatile garden tool with a D-handle and 41 inches in overall length. Made of cold-rolled steel and a wooden handle, it is strong and durable. It can be used for a variety of tasks such as digging, shoveling, and transferring. It is lightweight and easy to use, making it perfect for spring and summer gardening, as well as autumn and winter snow shoveling. Customers have praised its sturdiness and ergonomic design.

What We Like
Ideal for short people
Lightweight and sturdy
Comfortable handle design
Good quality materials
What We Don't Like
Could be sharper
Less suitable for tall users
Buying Guide Image

Best Gardening Shovels to Fullfill Your Needs

Introduction

Gardening shovels are an essential tool for any gardener, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro. Choosing the right gardening shovel can make a big difference in your gardening experience, so it is important to take the time to select the shovel that is right for you and your garden.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gardening Shovel

When choosing a gardening shovel, there are several factors that you should consider. These include the size and shape of the shovel, the material it is made from, and the type of handle.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the shovel are important because they will determine how well the shovel can dig and move soil. A larger shovel with a wider, curved blade will be able to move more soil at once, while a smaller shovel with a narrow, pointed blade will be better for precision digging.

Material

The material that a shovel is made from will also affect its performance. Shovels can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. Metal shovels are the most durable and long-lasting, but they can be heavy and require more effort to use. Plastic shovels are lighter and easier to use, but they are not as durable as metal shovels. Wood shovels are the least durable, but they can be comfortable to use and have a classic, rustic look.

Handle

The type of handle on a shovel is also important because it will affect your comfort and control while using the shovel. Shovels can have a variety of handle styles, including D-shaped, T-shaped, and straight handles. D-shaped handles are comfortable to grip and provide good control, while T-shaped handles offer even more control and are easy to use with two hands. Straight handles are the most traditional and provide a classic look, but they can be less comfortable to use.

Choosing the Right Gardening Shovel for Your Needs

Once you have considered the size, shape, material, and handle of the shovel, it is time to choose the right one for your gardening needs. If you are a beginner, a smaller, lightweight shovel with a D-shaped or T-shaped handle and a pointed blade is a good choice. This type of shovel will be easy to use and will allow you to dig and plant with precision.

If you are a more experienced gardener, you may want to choose a larger shovel with a wider blade and a straight or T-shaped handle. This type of shovel will be able to move more soil at once and will be better for digging large holes or moving heavy soils.

No matter what type of gardening shovel you choose, be sure to select one that is comfortable to use and that feels well-balanced in your hand. This will help you to avoid strain and injury while gardening and will make your gardening experience more enjoyable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right gardening shovel is an important decision that can make a big difference in your gardening experience. By considering the size, shape, material, and handle of the shovel, you can select the one that is right for you and your garden. A well-chosen gardening shovel will be comfortable to use and will help you to dig, plant, and move soil with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the three types of shovels?

There are three main types of shovels commonly used in gardening. The pointed spade is ideal for digging, the rounded spade is used for planting, and the square tip shovel is best for transferring loose materials. Choosing the right shovel type depends on the specific task you need to accomplish in your garden.

2. How do you dig up stubborn roots?

To remove stubborn roots, you can use a pry bar or garden fork to lift them out of the ground. If the roots are deep or difficult to remove, you may need to consider using heavier equipment like a small excavator or stump grinder for more effective removal.

Editor's Notes

During our gardening shovel research, we found 24 gardening shovel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 113,581 customer reviews through our big data system to write the gardening shovels list. We found that most customers choose gardening shovels with an average price of $25.96.

The gardening shovels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of gardening shovels, including Rhino USA, GARDEN WEASEL, AMES, Root Slayer, Fiskars. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,131 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Steven Taylor Avatar

Steven Taylor grew up in a small town called Beaufort in South Carolina and his passion for building and woodworking has led him to master the latest garden gadgets. He always holds every chance to patch up or sand down his beloved garden. There are various novel technologies in his articles.

Gardening Shovels Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Rhino USA GARDEN WEASEL AMES Root Slayer Fiskars Hooyman DIOVPLX QWORK PETCTN VNIMTI
Material Carbon Steel Aluminum Polyurethane Carbon Steel Alloy Steel Carbon Steel Metal Plastic Plastic Alloy Steel, Wood
Color Black Red Multicolor Red Black,Orange Black/Green Black Red Black Wood
Item Weight 2 Pounds 0.33 Kilograms 0.01 Ounces 5 Pounds 4.81 Ounces 2.4 Pounds 1.13 Kilograms 14.56 ounces 1.02 ounces 2.89 pounds
Handle Material Carbon Steel Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) Wood Carbon Steel Alloy Steel Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) Metal Plastic Plastic Wood
Grip Type Ergonomic Textured Ergonomic Ergonomic Power Ergonomic D-Grip D-Grip Ergonomic Ergonomic
Style Military E-Tool Fertilizer,Garden #12 Poly Scoop Root Slayer Flat Shovel Mini Transfer Shovel Digging Shovel - Classic Round Shovel
Blade Material Carbon Steel AluminIron Plastic Carbon Steel Alloy Steel 1050MN Steel Metal - Plastic Metal
Is Foldable -
Item dimensions L x W x H 8.2 x 5 x 23 inches 13 x 4 x 3 inches 9.5 x 14 x 46.5 inches 45 x 10.5 x 3.8 inches 4.75 x 8.5 x 47 inches 27.95 x 6.22 x 1.97 inches 1 x 1 x 1 inches - - 41 x 9 x 3 inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
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