Rollerski season is here and we get a lot of questions of how the major rollerskis differ and which is the best. For skate rollerski 101 on selecting the right rollerski, there are many things to consider, such as flex, durability, wheel speed, and price, but some easy to measure aspects we did the work for you and included in the below chart. We took these measurements using unused/unmounted rollerskis.
Wheelbase: Longer is usually for larger feet or more elite skiers. Shorter rollerskis are often best for younger kids or people with small feet. Shorter can be described as less swing weight and quicker to maneuver. The longer you go the binding is usually mounted closer to the balance point meaning less tail drop and a more balanced ski feel. Rollerskis should be mounted for the users foot size and not a one size fits all approach.
Wheel Diameter: Larger the wheels the smoother rolling over cracks and sticks will be. 100 mm is now the industry standard for skate rollerskis on pavement. We also offer a larger 105 mm wheel which is popular among those that rollerski a lot or looking for extra smoothness. You'll notice wheel size when rolling over cracks that have opened up.
Weight: Snow skis are super light. Rollerskis should try to simulate the weight and swing weight of snow skis. Swing weight quotient is one term used to describe the swing weight in relation to overall weight, and is driven by where the weight is in the rollerski. Some rollerskis have heavier frames than others affecting their swing weight quotient. You ideally want a light rollerski with the weight distributed out towards the ends.
Top of Frame Height: The distance from the top of the frame to the ground affects the stability. Lower means more stable.
Frame Thickness: The thicker the frame, usually means in order to achieve enough ground clearance the top of frame height is higher.
Ground Clearance: Want clearance to get you over most cracks and imperfections in the pavement. Decreases as your wheels wear. Usually more durable frames can be fine with lower clearance but if a more delicate frame material than clearance becomes really important.
FasterSkier.com 2016 Ranking: FasterSkier.com tested many skate rollerskis last summer and published their results here: http://fasterskier.com/fsarticle/living-the-dream-2016-skate-rollerski-review/
