I would spend the money (and the weight) and get a decent folding Alu shovel. A digging tool is imperative in snowy conditions. Just imagine loosing a friend in an avalanche because you couldn't dig fast enough.. A real shovel is more ergonomic, efficient and fun. Meaning every shove with the shovel will move more snow with less strain. The real thing will weigh slightly more but is energy wise worth it in the long run.
Black Diamond makes really good ones. So does orthovox, rottefella and several others.
EDIT: just read what the link said. I have tested the snowclaw besides ordinary shovels and I found that the ordinary shovels were better. Contrary to what the link says. So I guess it's my word against theirs. Only you could decide.
