Snow Showdown: Best Snow Tools for Flagstaff Winters

Nope, winter here, in Flagstaff, doesn’t mess around.With an average of about 100 inches of snow each year, Flagstaff ranks among the snowiest cities in the U.S.

And it’s not just how much snow we get - it’s the heavy, wet kind that packs down fast, turns icy overnight, and makes the wrong tool feel like a personal attack on your back.

That’s why choosing the right snow removal tool matters. From quick sidewalk cleanups to clearing long driveways after a big storm, here’s a local, real-world breakdown of what actually works best in Flagstaff winters, and for who.

If you prefer watching and listening, we highly recommend watching this video of Jon and MacKenzie talking about our best snow removal tools!

Snow Shovels: Best for Precision (and Smaller Areas)

Classic snow shovels are great for steps, porches, narrow sidewalks, and tight spaces. In Flagstaff’s wet snow, the key is choosing a shovel that fits how you move: lifting vs. pushing.

Heavy-duty snow shovels (strong, simple, reliable)

• Bully Tools Snow Shovel – Great if you want something tough for heavy snow days.

• Vulcan Snow Shovel – A solid everyday option for sidewalks and quick storms.

• Metal Snow Shovel – Best when snow turns into hardpack or ice… but heavier to use.

• Landscapers Select Snow Shovel – Lightweight and easy to maneuver for regular cleanups.

Shovels with a scraping edge (best for freeze-thaw weeks)

Flagstaff loves the classic combo: snow during the day, refreeze at night. If you’ve ever fought the “ice crust” layer, you know why a scraping edge matters.

• True Temper Snow Shovel with Scrape – A great pick when you need to scrape packed snow off concrete.

• 18" Shovelution Snow Shovel – Ergonomic design to reduce strain on your back and shoulders.

• Vulcan Snow Shovel (with metal scrape) – A solid everyday option, with scraping edges available for packed snow.

Sleigh Shovels & Pushers: Best for Heavy, Wet Snow (and Your Back)

If you’re clearing a driveway, pushing snow is often easier than lifting it over and over. Sleigh shovels and pushers help you move more snow with less strain—especially in those “snowman snow” storms.

• Garant Sleigh Shovel (45L, 24" poly blade, steel handle, metal scrape) – Excellent for pushing heavy, wet snow down long driveways, with a metal scraping edge that helps break through packed snow.

• UHMW Snow Pusher – Designed with an ultra-smooth UHMW blade that glides over concrete and asphalt without sticking.

• True Temper SnoBoss Snow Pusher – A hybrid snow pusher that can also scoop small amounts of snow. Designed primarily for pushing heavy, wet snow across driveways and sidewalks.

Best for: long driveways, wider sidewalks, frequent storms, anyone who wants less lifting.

What to Choose Based on Your Driveway Surface

• Concrete/asphalt: A shovel with a scraping edge helps remove packed snow cleanly.

• Pavers: Choose a smoother edge and avoid aggressive metal scraping that can catch edges.

• Gravel: Poly blades typically glide better without scooping up rocks.

What to Choose Based on Your Body

• Back/shoulder sensitivity: Sleigh/pusher styles and ergonomic shovels help reduce strain.

• Comfort matters: A lighter shovel you’ll actually use beats a heavy one you avoid.

• Clearing a little at a time: A standard shovel is fine if you stay ahead of the storm.

Snow Blowers: Best for Big Driveways and Big Storms

If you’re tired of shoveling heavy snow (or you’ve got a long driveway, corner lot, or multiple properties), a snow blower can be the difference between “quick cleanup” and “why am I still outside?”

Gas snow blowers (power + throwing distance)

• 24" Ariens snow blowers and 28" Ariens snow blowers – Great for most Flagstaff driveways and deeper snow.

• Compact Ariens snow blowers – Easier to store and maneuver (great for tighter spaces).

• Ariens Professional (Kraken) – Built for demanding conditions and bigger workloads.

• Ariens Deluxe (King of Snow) – A strong choice for frequent storms and heavier snow.

Electric snow blowers (lower maintenance + quieter)

• 24" self-propelled EGO snow blowers – Convenient, powerful, and easier to maintain than gas.

• 28" EGO snow blower (push) – A wider clearing path for faster cleanups.

How to Pick the Right Snow Blower in Flagstaff

Here are the key factors that usually decide the best model:

• Driveway length: longer driveways usually benefit from wider clearing widths (24"–28").

• Slope: self-propelled models feel much easier on hills and uneven surfaces.

• Snow type: Flagstaff’s heavier snow can require more power than light, fluffy snowfall.

• Storage space: compact models can be a better fit for garages with limited room.

• Maintenance preference: electric = simpler upkeep; gas = max power and range.

The Extra Winter Tools You Can’t Skip

In Flagstaff, snow removal doesn’t end when the driveway looks clear. What really causes problems is what comes after the storm: refreeze overnight, slick walkways, ice buildup, frozen car doors, and cold, salt-burned paws.

These are the complementary winter tools that make snowy days safer, easier, and way less frustrating.

Ice melt for safer walkways (and happier pets)

Once snow gets packed down, it quickly turns into ice - especially in shaded areas and overnight. Ice melt helps prevent slips and keeps entryways usable between storms.

• Safe Step Ice Melters (pet-friendly options available) – Great for improving traction on sidewalks, driveways, and steps without being harsh on paws.

Roof protection tools

Flagstaff’s heavy snow can put real weight on roofs and lead to icy roof edges and ice dam issues. Managing snow and ice up top is just as important as clearing it below.

• Roof Melt Tablets – Help reduce ice buildup along roof edges and improve drainage as snow melts.

Tip: If you’re unsure what’s safe for your roof type or how to use roof melt products correctly, our team is happy to help.

Cold-weather gear that makes snow removal easier

The right winter accessories make a big difference - especially when you’re pushing a snow blower, scraping ice, or working outside for longer stretches.

• Plastic snow shovels for kids – Lightweight and easy to handle, these are perfect for getting little ones involved. A great way to spend time together while still getting snow cleared.

• Insulated winter gloves – Essential for gripping shovel handles, pushing snow blowers, and scraping ice without frozen fingers.

• Ice scrapers & de-icer spray for your car – A must for frosty mornings, icy windshields, and frozen locks.

Don’t forget about your pets

Snow, ice melt, and road salt can be tough on paws. Protecting your pets keeps winter walks safer and more comfortable.

• Pet boots – Help protect paws and cushions from cold burn and irritation caused by ice melt and salt.

Come to HomCo and Let Our Team Help You Choose

Not sure what’s best for your driveway, your roof, or your comfort level? Stop by HomCo Lumber & Hardware in Flagstaff and ask our team. We’ll help you build the right snow setup for this winter and make sure you leave with tools that actually match Flagstaff winter reality.