by Stein, Eric's Son
Roller Skis and Inline Skates
Two very useful training and conditioning devices for
cross-country skiing are roller skis and inline skates.
The former mimic skiing better, but both are useful for
conditioning.
Roller Skis Roller skis are like short skis with a wheel
on each end. They are meant to be used just like skis,
with poles. You wear your normal ski boot and attach it
to the roller ski with a standard x-c binding.
Roller skis come in two types: classic style and skating.
Classic roller skis tend to be longer, and one of the
wheels will have an anti-reverse mechanism in it. This
mechanism acts like grip wax or the pattern on the bottom
of your skis to give you something to push against so
you can move forward. You use them just like regular skis
and propel yourself using a similar combination of arm
and leg movements.
You can use your regular ski poles as long as they have
carbide tips. Sharp, durable tips are needed to avoid
slipping on hard trail surfaces like asphalt. Special
roller ski poles are available that are more durable than
regular ski poles and that do not have baskets. The lack
of baskets is an asset on paved trails, because it helps
to avoid missed pole plants and reduces the weight of
the pole.
Skating roller skis tend to be shorter and do not have
one-way wheel ratchets in them. Forward motion is supplied
by pushing off to the side, just like with an inline or
ice skate. Brakes are generally not used on roller skis.
Roller skis typically cost between $200 and $250.
Inline Skates Most persons will find that inline skates
are probably easier to use than roller skis, and you don't
need poles. By the same token, if you do use them with
poles you can more effectively simulate ski skating and
get a more specific workout. There are lots of different
styles of inline skates and new models seem to come out
all the time. The key thing is to get one that fits. There
are soft shoe and hard boot models. Trying them both is
the best way to decide which is right for you. Models
with fewer wheels turn faster, but more wheels equals
greater straight line stability.
Some models come with a brake on one skate that is operated
by straightening up your leg. Prices for inline skates
vary more widely than for roller skis, typically ranging
from $100 to $300. Occassionally, you can find good deals
at used equipment stores.
If You Plan to Buy Try to rent first to see if you like
the activity. Inline skates may be rented from several
locations around town, including Sun and Snow. When buying
either skis or skates, make sure the wheels are hard enough
for the type of surfaces on which you will be rolling
and that the bearings are smooth and sealed.
For inline skates, make sure the boot fits properly.
Since many of the boots are plastic, they won't stretch.
Therefore, try them on when your foot is its largest,
like later in the afternoon. Make sure to wear the sock
in which you will be skating. Buckles are more convenient,
but laces are just as effective.
When buying roller skis, make sure that the type of binding
you have on your boots will fit on the ski. Heavy duty
or backcountry bindings may give a greater sense of control.
Safety Always wear a helmet, eye protection and gloves.
You may also want to consider elbow and knee pads. When
inline skating, wrist guards should also be worn. Be careful
on hills. Its almost impossible to "snowplow"
on roller skis. Good places for both activities are Hudson
Mills and Kensington Metroparks.
