It depends on the type of snow shovel and application, but the following can serve as a guide. - Traditional shovels should be between 18 and 24 inches wide. - Combo shovels should be around 24 inches wide, though folks with strength concerns will want to go smaller (18 inches). - For push-style shovels, consider the surface. Driveways can benefit from a 36-inch-wide pusher, while walkways might be easier to clear with a 24-inch-wide model.