Rollerski Review 2003
June 3, 2002
 Rollerskiing
provides one of the best methods for working on your cross-country
skiing technique and training those specific muscle groups.
First-Time
If you've never rollerskied before or are just getting started,
you might look into some training programs and clinics. Most
of our network stores offer summer/fall training programs
that include rollerskiing, and some even offer single day
clinics on rollerskiing. For even more personalized assistance,
some expert skiers offer private lessons. Check our Training
Calendar for a collection of programs and lessons.
Safety
A helmet is highly recommended for any rollerskiing workout,
regardless of the terrain. Some skiers also select elbow and
knee pads for added protection. If you're going to be on open
roads, bright clothing is strongly advised.
Rollerskis
There are a wide range of rollerskis on the market today.
Luckily, the technology has generally stabilized in the last
5-10 years, offering consistently good products. Choices break
down into four main categories:
- Skate rollerskis -- Primarily for skate technique.
The rollerski usually has narrow wheels (similar to scooter
or inline skate wheels).
- Classic rollerskis -- Primarily for classical
technique. These models generally have a longer wheelbase
with wider wheels for more of a stride simulation, along
with a racheted wheel to provide that classical skiing "kick".
- Combi rollerskis -- A rollerski designed to be
used for both classical and skating. It usually sports a
wider wheel with a shorter wheelbase.
- Off-road rollerskis -- While not designed for
rolling down ski trails, off-road rollerskis are great for
limestone trails and firm-packed dirt roads, primarily for
double-poling or striding over skating.
Here is a brief review of the current rollerskis offered
by some of our network member stores:
Gear
West
Gear West sells the Swedish-made Elpex rollerski line
up, along with selected V2 models. The highly popular
Elpex F-1 is a skating model with moderate wheel resistance
for better workouts. Elpex Off-roads allow skiers to
utilize limestone trail systems and backroads for great
double pole workouts. Elpex 610 rollerskis provide excellent
classic ski simulation, and four different wheel types
allow the skier to tune their wheel resistance to their
fitness level. The V2 125 is a skate model rollerski
that offers a smooth ride over rough pavement, while
the V2 150 with larger wheels can handle some gravel
roads. Also available, the Elpex Race skate and V2 940
combi.
V2 125s, Elpex F1, and Elpex Off-roads
Gear West has a large fleet of demo rollerskis and
offers training programs nearly year-round.
More
information on Gear West rollerskis
|
| Hoigaards
Hoigaards features the V2 models of rollerskis, including
replacement wheels, tubes and tires. The V2 Aero models,
both the original 150 and newer 125, feature pneumatic
wheels to provide an extra level of cushioning. The
original 900 series includes the 940 combi, a great
single solution for classic and skate workouts, and
the 930, the legendary classic rollerski. Hoigaards
also sells rollerskis from Ski Skett, including a lightweight,
moderate speed skating model called the 'Shark'.
Hoigaards offers single day rollerski clinics and training
programs through the Minnesota Valley Program.
More
information on Hoigaards rollerskis
|
| Finn
Sisu
Finn Sisu is home to the Finnish-made Marwe brand of
rollerskis. Marwe rollerskis are renowned for their
high-mileage wheels and snow-like simulation. The Marwe
Skating 610 is a freestyle model that sports a honeycomb
shaft body, providing extra road dampening. The Combi
model works well for skating and is preferred by many
for classical workouts. The Classic model features a
longer body for pure classic rollerskiing. Marwe rollerskis
are used by some of best U.S. skiers, including Kris
Freeman. Also available, the Skating 100 model.
Marwe combi, Marwe 610, Marwe Classic
Finn Sisu has a collection of demo Marwe rollerskis
and also runs summer and fall/winter training programs
for all levels.
More
information on Finn Sisu rollerskis
|
All of the above stores also offer special discount pricing
for high school skiers.
Where to Go
| Whether you're logging your first K's on rollerskis,
or are a seasoned veteran, the question always come up:
where to rollerski? The preferred terrain for most rollerskiers
are rolling asphalt trail systems. Quiet backroads can
sometimes offer an even better training ground with more
room and less traffic. If you're working on your starting
and stopping technique, you might try a smooth, empty
parking lot, then graduate up to trail systems before
hitting the open roads. If you do rollerski on open roads,
be sure to wear bright clothing and stay to the right
side of the road.
For a list of some of the best rollerski trails and
routes, check out our Rollerskiing
Trail section
Get rolling....
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Related links
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