Roller skis are cross-country skis with wheels. Shorter than normal skis, roller skis are 21 to 35 inches long. They were first developed as summer training devices for cross-country skiers. But now roller skiing is becoming a mainstream activity enjoyed all over the world, even by people who have never skied on snow. We ship roller skis and accessories to every continent except Antarctica -- where they don't need roller skis because they have snow 12 months a year.
Why is roller skiing good for me?
Roller skiing is a great way to get in shape and stay in shape. You can get an excellent full body workout without having to go to the gym. Roller skiing works both your arms and legs and promotes a high level of fitness. Yet it's a low-impact workout that's less stressful on your body than running. Someone who is unable to run because of injuries can still enjoy the health benefits of an aerobic workout through roller skiing.
How does it compare to skiing on snow?
Roller skiing is intended to simulate as closely as possible the feel of cross-country skiing on snow.
How does it compare to rollerblading?
Roller skiing is safer than rollerblading. Roller skiing is a lower-speed sport, so it's easier to stop when you need to. Also, you can get a good upper-body workout when you roller ski. Rollerblading works out your legs, but doesn't build up any strength in your arms.
Which roller skis should I get?
The best way to find out is to call us at (866) 244-2570 for some expert advice. We'll ask you a few questions about yourself, for example: What are your height, weight and shoe size? Are you a racer or a recreational skier? Do you prefer skate or classic technique? Do you need a stable ski that's easy to balance on? Will you be skiing on smooth pavement, or rough pavement, or unpaved (dirt/gravel) surfaces? Is it flat or hilly? Urban or rural? With the answers to these questions, we can help you select a ski model that fits your style and your budget. Click here for a list of available models.
Do I need safety equipment?
Yes. If you're a beginner, wear the same safety gear that you would wear for rollerblading: a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads and full-finger gloves. When you wear safety gear, you can learn to roller ski more quickly and easily because you won't have to worry about what happens if you fall.
What poles are good for roller skiing?
The best roller skiing poles have lightweight aluminum shafts and sharp pointed carbide steel tips. Poles with more flexible shafts and softer metal tips don't work nearly as well.
How do I stop or slow down?
Most of our roller skis can be equipped with optional devices called "speed reducers", and some models are available with an emergency brake. Speed reducers apply pressure to the front wheel of each ski to control your speed on downhills. An emergency brake bears down on the rear wheel of one ski to stop you quickly. Other braking techniques practiced by experienced skiers include a modified form of "snowplow" like on snow; slaloming; and rolling with one ski on the pavement and the other ski in roadside grass.
What bindings do I need?
We'll select the correct bindings to match the boots you'll be skating in.
Choices include Salomon Pilot, Profil and X-Adventure; plus Rottefella NNN-2, NNN-3 and NNN-BC.
Can I roller ski with the boots I already have?
It depends on your boots.
Roller skis clip onto cross-country ski boots that have a metal bar molded into the toe of the boot. The best boots for roller skiing are "skate" and "combi" models from Hartjes, Rossignol, Salomon, Alpina, Fischer, Atomic, Madshus and Sportful, because they have good ankle support. But your XC ski boots will work with roller skis if they have one of these logos stamped into the boot sole:
NNN, NNN-II, NNN-BC, SNS Pilot, SNS Profil, SNS X-Adventure or SNS Back Country.
Click here for photos of Pilot, Profil and NNN boot soles.
Would I be better off getting a new pair of boots?
You need ski boots with good ankle support, or you need strong ankles. If your ankles aren't the strongest, a stiffer pair of boots will improve your performance.
We offer a discount on most boots if you order them with your roller skis. We can advise you which boots to get, based on your shoe size, width, arch shape and budget. We get it right 95% of the time, and if you're one of the other 5%, we offer 30-day exchange/refund privileges on unused boots. Try them on indoors, lace them up, walk around in them indoors on a clean surface. If you don't like the fit, send them back to us for an exchange or refund.
How do I keep my skis in good condition?
Keep them dry. If you go skiing on a wet day, do your best to dry off the rubber wheels and the speed reducers.
What roller ski models are available? Here's a complete list.
Skating Rollerskis - priced "bare" (no bindings)
V2 Aero XL150S $299 - our most popular inflatable-tire ski
V2 Aero XL125S $299
V2 830 & 850 $249
Ski Skett Shark Trainer $209 - our most popular solid-wheel ski
Ski Skett Shark Racer $169
Ski Skett Fire Elite $209
Ski Skett Fire Light $169
Classic Rollerskis - priced bare (no bindings)
V2 Aero 105RC & 125RC Classic $369
V2 9001, 9002 & 9003 Classic $279
V2 910, 920 & 930 Classic $269
Ski Skett Bull Classic $249
Ski Skett Nord Classic $249
Ski Skett EL Snowbelt $179
Combi (Skate/Classic) Rollerskis - priced bare (no bindings)
V2 Aero 150SC Combi $349
V2 940C Combi $289
Ski Skett Nord Combi $269
Beginner Rollerskis - priced with bindings that fit running shoes - No ski boots needed!
V2 NORDIXC 105 & 125 Classic $499
Ski Skett EL Sunbelt $299
Toll-Free (866) 244-2570 ... www.nordicskater.com
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