I can either use a highway with a huge sholder with cars zooming at speeds of 80kph. or i can go on a 4 lane road (2lanes each way) with a 1 foot sholder covered by a snow bank. the traffic is slower on the 4 lane road.

I would take bigger shoulders over anything. Room between yourself and traffic is always a plus.

If you take the 4 lane don't bother with the shoulder. 1 foot isn't enough to accomodate you under normal conditions. Add in ice, snow, and any other debris that might accumulate and you're in for a world of hurt. If you're lucky you'll fall to the right and just hurt your ego. Otherwise you may end up taking a spill into that right lane. Instead you should take up a position in the right lane and practice your vehicular cycling skills.

Or take the shoulder on the other road (which is presumably reasonably clear).

humm i think ill try the highway. cars don't really really bother me on the 4 lane road, but the busses on the "bus only and 3 passenger and taxi" lane only scare me.