HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR ROLLERSKIS?
Do you want to enjoy the pleasures of cross-country skiing even when the snow has left the slopes? Then rollerskiing is for you. Learn more about this technique and find out which types of wheeled skis to choose!
Rollerskiing, what's that?
Training technique for some people, proper sports discipline for others: the rollerski appeared in the 1970s and has more and more followers. Also known as wheeled ski, it imitates the sensations of cross-country skiing on the road. To do this, it relies on the use of aluminium beams of about 550 mm to which wheels are attached at both ends. As with cross-country skiing, it is practised with cross-country ski boots attached by bindings and poles, the tips of which are harder so as not to break on the tarmac.
GOOD TO KNOW: ROLLERSKIING COMPETITIONS
Roller skiing has become so popular that there are now even competitions for the sport. Ski resorts are also starting to open more and more runs for roller ski in order to attract summer gliding enthusiasts.
The two techniques of ski wheeling
As with cross-country skiing, wheeled skiing can be practised in two ways (classic or skating):
The classic roller skiing technique
The usual technique of cross-country skiing, the classic technique, also called "diagonal stride", is roughly similar to walking. Indeed, it is based on the principle of leaning on one foot to propel one's body forward by counterbalancing one's weight with the arms.
The skating technique of roller skiing
Shortly known as "skating", it looks like, the way ice skaters move. You have to balance your body weight from one leg to the other by a movement of the pelvis, while continuing to glide. Faster than the diagonal stride/classic step, skating promises greater sensations.
The two models of roller skis
Who says two techniques, obviously says two types of rollerskis. Depending on which technique you prefer, you will therefore have to choose between:
The classic rollerski technique
With larger wheels and an anti-backwards system to mimic the grip sensations provided by the waxes, scales and skins of a classic cross-country ski, classic rollerskis are more accessible to beginners due to their stability. In particular, they are slightly longer than skating rollerskis.
The skating wheeled ski
This type of rollerski does not have an anti-backwards system. In addition, the wheels are narrower and higher, which makes the skis much more manoeuvrable and enhances the gliding sensation. While descents are more fun, ascents require a lot more effort.
Getting the right gear for rollerskiing
Before you hit the roads, you'll also need to get some accessories:
- A helmet
- Gloves to prevent blisters
- Rollerski poles with tungsten tips
- Bindings
- Adequate ski boots (be careful as these depend on the technique you choose to practise)
Piece of advice for beginners in wheeled ski sport
While it is easier to start roller skiing when you already have experience of cross-country skiing, wheeled ski is accessible to everyone. To start safely, however, it's best to opt for rollerskis with wider, rubber wheels that may offer less speed, but more stability so you can acquire the right reflexes. Also note that wheeled skis, regardless of the model, do not have brakes. So don't go on a big descent if you are not yet comfortable! Finally, to take your first steps on rollerskis, make sure you train on flat terrain, cycle tracks or roads that are not very busy or that are closed.
TIP: BRAKING WITH ROLLERSKIS
To brake with wheeled skis, apply the wide stance stopping technique (kind of a "snowplough"), i.e. spread the skis apart and slide them sideways.
Now that you know everything, all that's left to do is put on your rollerskis and practice on the tarmac before you get back to the mountain and the snow next winter!
THE 3 KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER ABOUT ROLLERSKIS:
- There are two techniques and therefore two models: classic or skating.
- Wheeled skis do not have brakes.
- Start on flat terrain and on roads with little traffic.