Choosing a Rollerski

The objective of rollerskiing is to simulate cross country skiing on snow as close as possible both in terms of technique and working the appropriate muscle groups. Rollerskis are a compromise. Classic rollerskis don't simulate the kick action well which can lead to bad technique and skiers don't have the classic guide rails making balance more difficult. Skate skis have rounded wheels so skiers have to pay attention to landing the ski flat. In both cases a fall on the ground is much less forgiving compared to snow.

  • Material: Wood, Aluminium, Carbon fibre and Fibre glass are all used to construct rollerski shafts. Aluminium has a reputation for giving a harsh ride but is cheaper and durable. A lot depends on the contruction.
  • Height: How far is the shaft from the ground, high end skis drop the shaft below the axle line making the ski more stable and may chamfer the shaft to avoid grounding when cornering
  • Guide Wheels: classic skis may come equipped with a small guide wheel on the front, this helps the ski track straight when kicking
  • Wheelbase: Longer frames are more stable and give a better "snow feeling" but are heavier and less manoeuvrable. You'll not be able to mount the bindings on the balance point so shorter frames position have more tail drop. Bindings will need hard rubber bumpers to prevent this. Elite skiers will generally go for longer frames
  • Weight Limit: Most skis have a weight limit of 100 to 120 kgs (220lbs)
  • Weight: Studies show that weight is not that important except when climbing steeper gradients. Under 2kg / pair is acceptable.
  • Wheels: Skate rollerskis have pretty much standardized on 100x24mm wheels. There is much more variety with classic skis with even some three wheel designs using similar wheels to skate skis. Black rubber has more grip and is used for training. Urethane for racing. Classic wheels are squarish and the front wheels typically have a clutch bearing to simulate kick. Skate wheels have a round profile but too hard and elliptic can make them hard to handle. Cross skates have 150 to 200 mm pneumatic tires, they are safest to ski and give good snow feeling and can be used on trails.
  • Bearings: Not that significant, if you don't go in the rain they will outlast the wheels. If you do ski in the rain a hair dryer then WD40 can stop them seizing up.
  • Mudguards: Nice in the wet but can't be used with brakes
  • Brakes: It is possible to fit a brake that is actuated by the leg to slow down on steeper slopes