Roller skiing is some of the most ski-specific dryland training, but to get the most ROI for your time invested and training effort, it’s important to find the right roller skis. Here’s what to look for when buying some of the most important dryland training equipment.
Just as with regular skis, its important to define how and where you plan to use your roller skis. What kind of surface and terrain will you roller ski on? Smooth velvety asphalt, concrete, chip seal or even gravel? Skate or classic? Will you use them only for training or do you plan to race as well?
For those who are relatively new to roller skiing, it’s extra important to get skis that are stable and easy to maneuver.
“What’s really important is to find sturdy, stable skis that you can easily come to a stop with,” Anita Moen says to SkiAktiv.no.
The accomplished four-time Olympian has 18 years with the Norwegian National team on her resume, and currently runs ski and dryland clinics for both elite skiers and masters in Trysil, Norway.
Go for established brands
“Buy roller skis from solid brands that have been around a while. New brands often have a few bugs to work out, and roller skiing is not where you want to find a defect on a screaming downhill,” Moen notes, adding that with the stayer brands, it’s easy to find replacement parts and service.
If you are shopping for skate roller skis, Moen warns against the shortest skis on the market. “Don’t get the shortest skate roller skis. They give a push/kick that feels more like inline skating than snow skiing,” she explains.
Aluminum or fiberglass?
The different brands and models offer different technologies in the construction. But most roller skis fit into one of two main categories: aluminum shaft construction and fiberglass/wood core construction. Aluminum shafts are light, sturdy and stiff. Fiberglass/wood core roller skis generally absorb more of the road vibration and are a good choice for uneven/rough surfaces.
Elpex new models Evolution X and Evolution V were recently names the top roller ski for 2013 in Sweden. The two models are virtually the same, with the Evolution V being the womens specific version. The Elpex Evolution X and Evolution V received the highest score in the roller ski test by a long shot: 191 point out of 220 point (the next ski on the list received 170 points), and is expected to be the best seller in Sweden this season.
The Swenor Fibreglass and the ProSki Flex, ranked second and third, respectively. The Swenor Fibreglass has a wood core/fiberglass laminate shaft and provide exceptional vibration control, and received 170 points in the test. This model has long been a favorite with elite skiers and the Norwegian and Swedish national teams. The forks and shafts of the ProSki Flex is made from SAAB, a shock absorbing steel. This ski does particularly well on roller ski courses and got 169 points in the test.
Swenor Tristar received 166 points in the test. This is an aluminum shaft ski that is easy to ski, has a reasonable price tag, and is a good choice for skiers who are new to roller skiing. That said, this was also the top pick for one of the elite skiers on the test panel.
Safety first
Always wear a helmet, glasses, gloves and bright, reflective clothing. A helmet goes without saying, glasses keep dust and bugs out of your eyes as well as the glare and gloves will save your hands when and if you spill. Reflective clothing is crucial even on bright sunny days as the glare from the sun makes it hard for drivers to see roller skiers on the shoulder. If you have the option, use a roller ski specific arena where cars are banned and the turns are perfectly designed to keep you on the course and out of the ditch, or bike paths when possible. Also, firm dirt roads are a great low-traffic alternative and also opens up a lot more terrain.