9 Things Many Get Wrong (and How to Avoid Them)
Roller skis are one of the best ways to train cross-country skiing without snow. However, many beginners – and even experienced skiers – make some common mistakes that affect technique, safety, and training quality.
Here we cover common mistakes when roller skiing and how to avoid them to improve your training and ski feel.
1. You choose too light rolling resistance
A common mistake when buying roller skis is choosing too light rolling resistance.
It might feel fast and fun, but too light resistance means that:
- technique suffers on downhills
- training becomes less similar to cross-country skiing
- the load is too low.
Tip:
Most recreational skiers train best with rolling resistance 3, as it provides a more ski-like feel than lighter wheels.
2. You use poles that are too long
Incorrect pole length is common in roller skiing, especially among beginners.
Poles that are too long can lead to:
- poorer power transfer
- poorer technique
- greater strain on shoulders and arms.
Tip:
Use approximately the same pole length as in winter, or sometimes 1–2 cm shorter poles for better control.
3. Worn pole tips
Pole tips are crucial for grip on asphalt.
When the tips wear down:
- the poles start to slip
- poling loses power
- technique becomes unstable.
Tip:
Check the tips regularly and sharpen them with a diamond file or replace them when worn.
4. You ski without safety equipment
Roller skiing often takes place on asphalt and sometimes near traffic. Skiing without protection is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
Always use:
- helmet
- gloves
- reflectors when needed.
Gloves also protect your hands in case of a fall.
5. Too difficult terrain initially
Many beginners start skiing in terrain that is too hilly.
Downhill roller skiing requires technique and balance and can be difficult at first.
Tip:
Start on:
- bike paths
- roller ski tracks
- flat roads.
As you gain confidence, you can gradually start skiing in more hilly terrain.
6. Too little focus on technique
A common mistake in roller ski training is just skiing without thinking about technique.
Roller skis are actually one of the best tools for developing cross-country skiing technique.
Focus on:
- balance
- weight transfer
- timing of pole plant
- relaxed arms.
7. Many don’t dare to try skate skiing
Many who start roller skiing choose classic and never really dare to try skate skiing.
That’s a shame, because skate skiing:
- is fun
- provides good cardio training
- develops balance and technique.
Tip:
Start on a wide bike path or roller ski track. Most people learn the basics of skate skiing much faster than they think.
8. Believing you can’t brake
Many beginners think you cannot brake on roller skis if the skis lack brakes.
But just like on snow, you can brake by snowplowing.
Snowplow braking works particularly well:
- on gentle downhills
- when you want to control speed
- when practicing technique.
Tip:
Practice snowplow braking in a quiet place until the technique feels secure.
9. You forget service and maintenance
Roller skis are exposed to dirt, water, and vibrations. Without maintenance, they can quickly start rolling less efficiently.
Regularly check:
- wheels
- bearings
- wheel axles
- pole tips.
A little service ensures your roller skis roll better and last longer.
Summary – how to get better roller ski training
Most problems with roller skis are due to a few simple mistakes: incorrect rolling resistance, worn pole tips, insufficient safety, or too little focus on technique.
By:
- choosing the right roller skis
- using the correct equipment
- practicing technique
- maintaining your equipment
you can get safer and more effective roller ski training and a better ski feel for winter.