I’ve mentioned in the past that a good shovel is an essential tool in the mountains. They can be used to build your shelter, whether it is a snow cave or trench. A good shovel can help with snow wall construction. And, a good shovel is an essential tool should the worst case scenario happen; an avalanche.
Avalanches really have a lot of compressive force. The snow gets packed very densely, requiring a burly shovel to dig out anyone that is trapped. For this reason, I consider any shovel without a metal blade to be dangerous in avalanche terrain.
Another key feature is a shaft and handle that is comfortable enough for use to dig rapidly and furiously in avalanche rubble. I’m a tall guy, so I prefer a longer shaft. In addition, my hands are large and the way I prefer to dig, I like a D handle as opposed to a T handle.
The D handle also provides a convenient location to tie a sling. I like shovel blades that have holes in them to allow it to be slung as a deadman in an emergency.
I strongly recommend not using your shovel as a tent anchor. This makes it difficult to retrieve it to dig out your tent during a snow storm. In addition, if you have set up a base camp, you need your shovel while you head up the slope.
I like using the Voile Telepro. It is comfortable, has a really durable aluminum blade, and allows me to really move a lot of snow efficiently. The blade also detaches easily from the shaft, which makes life easier when trying to dig out the interior of a snow cave.
You can get it at Mountain Gear and REI
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