Square-handled spades will make easy work of digging holes for your plants as well as edging, lifting, and moving small mounds of dirt from one place to another. Treads on top of the spade will give it a sturdier and more comfortable foot surface. Having an ash hardwood handle is also an advantage as they are very durable and will absorb shocks and vibrations.
Spades are generally available with long or short handles, and each will come with its own pros and cons.. having a longer handle will provide more leverage but it will also be much heavier while spades with a stainless steel head will be strong and won't rust but the lack of length will take away the leverage you have with a longer handle.