In most cases it is the superior choice. Having options doesn't mean much if those options aren't well balanced. There are some encounters in which shove won't be as useful, but in any encounter where there is high terrain and/or insta-death pit shoving just offers a better payout then offhand attack.
I don't think it is the superior choice in most cases. Certainly because most cases don't involve insta-death pits. Or high terrain with the enemies positioned perfectly to take advantage of the maneuver.
Now, when those situations do present themselves it can be the superior choice. But those situations are rarer than some people are giving them credit for. And in regards to insta-death pits, one has to always factor in the lost loot, which makes the choice less attractive.
