When it comes to gardening, landscaping, construction, or any outdoor project that involves digging, having the right tools can make a world of difference. Digging shovels are essential tools for various tasks such as preparing garden beds, trenching, moving soil, gravel, and more. To help you find the best digging shovel for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 digging shovel products available on Amazon.

To see our related product guide article, click here.

Top Picks for Best Digging Shovel

Fiskars 96685935J Digging Shovel

The Fiskars 96685935J Digging Shovel is a versatile and durable option designed to tackle a wide range of digging tasks. With a sturdy and robust build, this shovel features a welded 14-gauge hardened steel blade that easily cuts through tough soil and roots. The product provides a butted comfortable grip and enhanced control during digging. Its compact design makes it suitable for confined spaces, while its weather-resistant coating ensures longevity.

Pros:

• Sturdy and durable construction.
• Welded steel blade for efficient digging.
• Comfortable butted-handle grip.
• Suitable for various digging tasks.
• Weather-resistant coating.

Cons:

• Some users may find the handle a bit short for taller individuals.

Ashman Heavy-Duty Digging Shovel, 41-Inch with Trenching Blade and Comfortable Handle

The Ashman Heavy-Duty Digging Shovel boasts a 41-inch length, making it ideal for deep digging and trenching. Its trenching blade design enhances its versatility, allowing you to perform tasks like digging trenches, planting trees, and more. The comfortable handle provides a secure grip and minimizes hand fatigue during extended use. This shovel is perfect for gardening, landscaping, construction, and masonry projects.

Pros:

• Long handle for deep digging and trenching.
• Trenching blade design for added versatility.
• Comfortable handle grip.
• Suitable for various outdoor projects.

Cons:

• Middle of the road option. 

VNIMTI Digging Shovel with D-Handle

The VNIMTI Digging Shovel features a round shovel design, making it ideal for tasks such as digging, lifting, and moving soil, sand, or snow. Its 41-inch overall length provides adequate leverage for efficient digging. The wooden D-handle offers a classic and comfortable grip, while the versatile design makes it suitable for gardening, beach activities, and light snow removal.

Pros:

• Round shovel design for versatile digging tasks.
• Wooden D-handle for a comfortable grip.
• Suitable for gardening, beach, and light snow removal.

Cons:

• Not as heavy-duty as other options on the list.

Hooyman Digging Shovel with Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Head Construction

The Hooyman Digging Shovel stands out with its heavy-duty carbon steel head construction, ensuring durability and reliability. The ergonomic no-slip H-grip handle design provides comfort and control during digging tasks. The oversized steps on the blade allow for efficient foot placement, enhancing digging power. Serrated edges add versatility, making this shovel suitable for gardening, yard work, land management, and farming.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty carbon steel construction.
• Ergonomic no-slip H-grip handle.
• Oversized steps for efficient foot placement.
• Serrated edges for added versatility.

Cons:

• Some users may find the serrated edges less effective for certain tasks.

Fiskars 397900-1001 PRO Digging Shovel, 60 Inch

For those in need of extra reach and leverage, the Fiskars 397900-1001 PRO Shovel is a 60-inch digging powerhouse. Its extended length is perfect for deep digging, especially in larger garden beds or construction projects. The sharp steel blade and sturdy construction allow for efficient soil penetration, while the comfortable grip and ergonomic design make extended use easier on the hands and back.

Pros:

• Extra-long 60-inch handle for deep digging.
• Sharp steel blade for efficient soil penetration.
• Comfortable grip and ergonomic design.

Cons:

• Length may be cumbersome for smaller or confined spaces.

Conclusion

Selecting the right digging shovel is essential for successful gardening and outdoor projects. Each of these top 5 products offers unique features and benefits, catering to various needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for durability, versatility, comfort, or reach, there’s a digging shovel on this list that’s sure to meet your requirements. Happy digging!

What Should You Look for in a Digging Shovel?

When shopping for a digging shovel, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure that you choose a tool that suits your needs and makes your outdoor tasks more efficient and comfortable. Here are some key aspects to look for in a digging shovel:

1. Blade Material and Design: The blade of a digging shovel is the part that comes into direct contact with the soil and other materials. Look for a shovel with a sturdy blade made from high-quality materials like hardened steel or carbon steel. A sharp and well-designed blade will penetrate the soil more effectively, making digging easier and requiring less effort.
2. Handle Design and Length: The handle of the shovel greatly influences your comfort and control while digging. Consider the handle’s length and design. A longer handle can provide more leverage for deeper digging tasks, but it might be less maneuverable in tight spaces. Look for ergonomic handles with comfortable grips that reduce strain on your hands and wrists during extended use.
3. Grip and Comfort: A comfortable grip is crucial for a positive digging experience. Look for shovels with cushioned or non-slip handles that provide a secure hold, even when your hands are wet or covered in dirt. Ergonomically designed handles can prevent hand fatigue and blisters during prolonged use.
4. Blade Shape and Edge: Different shovel blade shapes and edges cater to various tasks. Flat blades are versatile for general digging, while pointed or curved blades are better for tasks like breaking up compacted soil or digging trenches. Some shovels also feature serrated edges, which can be handy for cutting through roots or tough vegetation.
5. Versatility: Consider the range of tasks you plan to perform with the shovel. Some shovels come with additional features like trenching blades, serrated edges, or oversized steps on the blade for better foot placement. These features can enhance the versatility of the shovel and allow you to tackle a broader range of tasks.
6. Durability and Build Quality: Invest in a digging shovel that’s built to last. Shovels made from high-quality materials and strong construction techniques will endure tough conditions without bending or breaking. Look for shovels with welded or reinforced connections between the blade and handle.
7. Weight and Maneuverability: Consider the weight of the shovel. While a heavier shovel might provide more power for digging, it can also be tiring to use for extended periods. Strike a balance between weight and maneuverability to ensure that you can work comfortably and effectively.
8. Weather Resistance: If you’ll be using your shovel outdoors, make sure it’s resistant to rust and corrosion. A weather-resistant coating or finish can prolong the lifespan of the shovel, especially if you’re working in wet or damp conditions.
9. Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research the brand’s reputation and read user reviews. Established brands often offer better quality and customer support. Reading reviews can give you insights into real-world performance and user satisfaction.
10. Price and Warranty: Set a budget for your digging shovel, but keep in mind that investing a bit more in a quality tool can pay off in the long run. Check if the shovel comes with a warranty, as this can provide you with added peace of mind.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a digging shovel that’s well-suited to your specific needs, whether you’re gardening, landscaping, or engaging in other outdoor projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a digging shovel?

A digging shovel, also known simply as a shovel, is a hand tool designed specifically for the purpose of digging and moving soil, dirt, gravel, and other materials. It’s a versatile tool commonly used in gardening, landscaping, construction, farming, and various outdoor tasks. The design of a digging shovel typically consists of a handle attached to a flat or curved blade at one end.

The main components of a digging shovel are:

1. Handle: The handle is the part of the shovel that you grip and hold while using it. It’s usually made of wood, fiberglass, or metal. The handle provides leverage and control, allowing you to apply force to the blade for digging and lifting.
2. Blade: The blade, also known as the scoop or head, is the flat or curved metal part at the opposite end of the handle. The shape and design of the blade can vary based on the intended purpose of the shovel. Flat blades are suitable for general digging and moving materials, while pointed or curved blades are better for tasks like breaking up soil or digging trenches.

Digging shovels are available in different sizes and designs to cater to various tasks and preferences. Some may have additional features like serrated edges for cutting through roots, trenching capabilities for creating narrow trenches, or oversized steps on the blade for better foot placement and added digging power.

In summary, a digging shovel is an essential tool for anyone engaged in outdoor activities that involve excavating, moving, or rearranging soil, dirt, gravel, and similar materials. It’s a versatile tool that comes in various designs to suit different types of tasks, making it indispensable for gardening, landscaping, construction, and more.

What is a digging shovel used for?

A digging shovel is a versatile tool used for a wide range of outdoor tasks that involve digging, moving, and manipulating soil, dirt, gravel, and other materials. Its design, with a handle and a blade, makes it well-suited for various applications. Here are some common uses of a digging shovel:

1. Gardening: Digging shovels are essential for gardeners. They are used to prepare garden beds by turning and loosening the soil, making it ready for planting. Shovels can also be used to dig holes for planting trees, shrubs, and other plants.
2. Landscaping: In landscaping projects, digging shovels are employed to shape the terrain, create pathways, and excavate areas for features like ponds, flower beds, and retaining walls.
3. Construction: In construction, digging shovels are used for digging trenches for utilities like water pipes, electrical cables, and drainage systems. They are also employed in building foundations and other groundwork.
4. Moving Material: Digging shovels are ideal for moving bulk materials like soil, dirt, sand, and gravel. They are commonly used to transfer these materials from one place to another, such as filling wheelbarrows or spreading material evenly across a surface.
5. Snow Removal: During winter, digging shovels can be repurposed for removing snow from driveways, walkways, and sidewalks. Their wide blades allow for efficient clearing of snow.
6. Creating Pits and Holes: Whether it’s for planting, installing posts, or burying objects, digging shovels are used to create pits and holes of various sizes and depths.
7. Breaking Ground: When dealing with compacted soil or tough surfaces, digging shovels can be used to break up and loosen the ground before further excavation or planting.
8. Levelling and Grading: Shovels can assist in levelling surfaces and grading soil to achieve even and smooth terrain, especially in landscaping and construction projects.
9. Removing Weeds and Roots: The edge of a shovel can be used to remove weeds and their roots from the ground, making it easier to maintain a garden or landscape.
10. Mixing and Blending: Shovels can be used to mix soil with compost, fertilizer, or other amendments, ensuring an even distribution of nutrients throughout the garden.
11. Transplanting: When moving established plants from one location to another, a shovel can be used to carefully lift and transplant them without damaging the root system.

Overall, a digging shovel is a versatile and indispensable tool for anyone involved in outdoor activities, whether it’s gardening, landscaping, construction, farming, or other tasks that require digging and moving materials.

What are some alternatives to using a digging shovel?

While a digging shovel is a versatile tool for various outdoor tasks, there are several alternatives available depending on the specific task you need to accomplish. Here are some alternatives to using a traditional digging shovel:

1. Garden Fork: A garden fork is a tool with multiple flat tines that can be used to loosen and turn soil. It’s great for aerating soil, breaking up clumps, and digging in softer ground.
2. Mattock: A mattock combines a pick on one side and an adze or blade on the other. It’s useful for breaking up hard, compacted soil and for digging in rocky terrain.
3. Hoe: A hoe has a flat blade attached to a long handle and is ideal for cultivating soil, weeding, and making furrows for planting seeds.
4. Pickaxe: A pickaxe has a pointed end on one side and a flat chisel-like blade on the other. It’s effective for breaking up tough ground, rocks, and hardpan soil.
5. Trowel: A trowel is a small handheld tool with a flat, pointed blade. It’s commonly used for planting, transplanting, and digging in small areas or containers.
6. Hand Auger: A hand auger is a spiral tool used for drilling holes in the ground, particularly for planting bulbs or creating holes for posts.
7. Power Auger: For larger digging tasks, a power auger can be used. It’s a motorized tool that rapidly drills holes in the ground, commonly used for fence posts and larger planting projects.
8. Spade Shovel: A spade shovel has a flat, squared blade that’s suitable for cutting through roots, edging, and digging in heavier soils.
9. Crowbar or Pry Bar: Crowbars can be used to leverage and break up hard soil or rocks, although they might not be as precise as shovels.
10. Excavator or Backhoe: For heavy-duty excavation, construction, and landscaping tasks, heavy machinery like excavators or backhoes can be used.
11. Manual Earth Auger: A manual earth auger is a hand tool with a corkscrew-like blade that can be twisted into the ground to create holes. It’s often used for smaller planting projects.
12. Mini Trencher: For creating narrow trenches, especially in larger areas, a mini trencher can be used to cut through soil more efficiently than a traditional shovel.

The choice of alternative tools depends on the specific task, the type of soil, and your comfort level with each tool. It’s important to select the tool that suits the job to ensure efficiency, safety, and the best results.