Purchasing Roller Skis

There exists a range of styles and models of roller skis, offering a variety of options to find your ideal setup. This guide aims to assist your choices when acquiring new roller ski gear.

Continue reading to select the most suitable equipment for your needs.

Frames: Preferred Terrain and Style

You must reflect on your running style before choosing a roller ski frame—are you inclined towards classic roller skiing, or do you prefer the skating style? Moreover, consider what surface you like to run on. The answers here are crucial in determining your roller ski frame. For example, low frames aren't advisable for gravel surfaces. In contrast, high frames challenge your balance. Generally, taking part in a rehearsal class is wise if you haven't tried roller skiing previously. It will aid in selecting the appropriate gear.

Frame materials vary—aluminium, wood, steel, and carbon—all with unique pros and cons. For instance, wood offers increased flexibility and a superior skiing sensation, while aluminium, being stiffer and lighter, is optimised for competitions due to enhanced power transfer.

Roller Ski Wheels

Alongside selecting suitable frames, it's crucial to decide on wheels with the appropriate hardness for your roller skis. Certain roller ski brands offer one to four different wheel-hardness levels. For roads with gravel, softer wheels are best, whereas harder wheels are ideal when primarily on asphalt. Remember to consider wheel hardness and material when buying roller skis. The harder the wheels, the more resistance experienced on smooth asphalt. Softer wheels provide a smoother roll.

Roller Ski Boots

The current selection of roller ski boots has never been more extensive. Previously, people commonly used winter equipment, but now you can buy summer roller ski boots. These boots offer comfort above 5-8 degrees Celsius due to less insulation compared to winter versions.

Poles and Pole Tips for Roller Skiing

The roller ski market has expanded with specialised poles, featuring advancements in weight and material.

Select poles that suit your skills, ski type, and body length. Beginners or intermediates might prefer softer poles for comfort and arm protection. Experts or competitors should opt for stiff poles (80 - 100 % carbon) ensuring better power transfer—though stiffer poles are more susceptible to breaking from impacts. Carry them in a pole bag for transport and avoid dropping them onto hard surfaces.

Pole length should align with your height and chosen style of riding (classical or skate).

Classic

Pole length should be roughly 30 cm shorter than your height. Measure while both the pole and you are standing on the ground. Some experienced roller skiers may favour specific pole lengths.

Skate

For skating style, the poles should measure 15-20 cm shorter than your height. Stand with both you and the pole on the ground to assess the correct length. Again, experienced skiers might have a preference.

Rollerski Pole Tips

It's a common mistake to use the same tips as in winter. This isn't advisable due to quality issues—the cheaper the tip, the softer it generally is, and softer tips wear quickly when roller skiing. Initially, a grindstone might suffice, but eventually, you'll need replacements.

Watch this video to learn how to replace roller ski pole tips:

Grips and Straps

Different models of roller ski pole grips and straps are available. The key is that they allow easy pole control. Many grips have a cork surface, ensuring comfort. Straps come in various designs, such as Velcro or the innovative boa closure.

Over time, grips wear out and require changing.

See this video for instructions on replacing grips:

Additionally, for safety reasons, consider adding reflectors to roller ski poles without built-in ones, enhancing visibility in traffic. The poles move considerably while skiing, drawing attention from vehicles on dim bike paths or roads. Several of our poles come with built-in reflectors—more information is listed under each product.

Of course, a helmet is essential for roller skiing, as speeds can reach approximately 30 km/h.

We hope this guide points you in the right direction and addresses your inquiries regarding roller ski purchases and accessories. If uncertainties remain or if you're unsure which roller skis to choose, do not hesitate to contact us.