

Galaxus wallflowers: this snow shovel has dug its own grave

There’s always the popular – and the overlooked. Even when it comes to our products here at Galaxus. Some live out a shadowy existence, unnoticed by the masses. Like the AX 1800 Nano snow shovel from Miogarden.
Fifteen minutes of fame. Andy Warhol coined the expression in the 1960s, thus suggesting that in a future world, everyone would be world famous for at least a little while. Anyone and everyone? Wrong. There are some who never make it into the limelight. Not even for fifteen minutes. Like this snow shovel from Miogarden. But that’s going to change now, at least for a few minutes. It’s not like it has to be 15.

Maybe the fact that it’s not luring anyone out from the warm indoors can be blamed upon its name: the AX 1800 Nano. What is that even supposed to mean? It sounds more like a game console or even a graphics card. Definitely not like a snow shovel. But that’s exactly what the AX 1800 Nano from Miogarden is. It’s a push snow shovel, to be exact. Until now, I wasn’t even aware that multiple types of snow shovels existed. But they do. Here’s an overview:
The push shovel
With a push shovel, you simply push the snow aside, as you can guess by its name. It’s a simple way to keep driveways and paths safe. For small paths, a simple plastic snow shovel is a good choice. For larger amounts of snow or heavy snow, it’s better to use a metal shovel with a sturdy wooden handle. And there are models called snow pushers, which have wheels to make removing snow easier, especially in large areas. On the other hand, if you’re trying to remove accumulated snow or ice, you can use a compact snow shovel or a shovel with a metal edge.
The classic shovel
If you’re clearing fresh snow daily or in areas where it snows infrequently or where the area to be cleared is relatively small, it’s recommended you use a traditional shovel. It’s the most universal tool for removing snow and can be found in various shapes and sizes. For small areas, use a shovel with an extendable telescopic handle or with a folding mechanism. It’ll give you better control, won’t cause scratches and is easily stored, saving on space. For better ergonomics when lifting snow, a D-handle helps.
The snow scoop shovel
A snow scoop shovel is similar to a traditional shovel. The difference is that it’s often a lot wider and can thus be used to clear away more snow with every scoop. You also use it differently than a classic shovel because you don’t simply lift and toss. You position the edge of the snow scoop under the snow and move or push the raised snow to the side. With a snow scoop, you’re well equipped for wide driveways or a stay in the mountains. But keep in mind the increased amount of snow per load also requires more strength and endurance.
The ice scraper
For stubborn ice or hard snow, an ice scraper is helpful. With its metal tip and long handle, it helps break up frozen ice into small pieces, which you can then clear away with a snow shovel or scoop.
The AX 1800 Nano from Miogarden has dug its own grave
If you type «snow shovel» into our shop’s search bar, you’ll get 133 products to choose from (at the time of writing). These are generally sorted according to relevance. In other words, the most relevant shovel – whether a push shovel, scooper or ice scraper – first. Then all other products are listed in decreasing relevance. Until number 133. You can find out how products are sorted and displayed here. Simply put, it all comes down to:
- search query accuracy
- users’ search and shopping habits
- availability and estimated delivery time
- popularity and novelty
- attractiveness and price
Taking all these criteria into account, the AX 1800 Nano from Miogarden currently lands at the back of the pit lane. It has dug its own grave. Put another way, it’s not particularly relevant.
The Galaxus range is home to products that nobody sees, nobody knows and nobody wants. But even these bench players deserve a little attention. That’s why I’ve taken it upon myself to showcase our Galaxus wallflowers from time to time.*
Header image: Shutterstock


From radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.