The ideal quality gardening shovel should combine strength, comfort and versatility. It needs a durable rust resistant blade that can cut through tough soil, roots and clay with ease. The handle should be ergonomic ideally with a non-slip grip and made from sturdy materials like fiberglass, hardwood or steel for durability and shock absorption. A good shovel also features a sharp well shaped blade either round pointed for digging or square edged for scooping and edging. Ultimately the best gardening shovel feels balanced in hand and stands up to heavy-duty garden work season after season.