Rollerskier at Pittsburgh's Open Streets

Rollerskiing is the off-season counterpart to cross-country skiing, offering the same movements and techniques — just on pavement instead of snow. It began in the mid-1930s as a training method for Nordic skiers, helping athletes stay in shape year-round. Since then, the sport has evolved well beyond training: in 1992, the International Ski Federation (FIS) officially recognized rollerskiing as its own competitive discipline.

Modern rollerskis are built much like miniature skis. They have a rigid frame — typically made from aluminum, fiberglass, carbon fiber, or wood composite — with a wheel at each end, usually crafted from rubber or polyurethane for a snow-like feel on pavement. Standard cross-country ski bindings are mounted on top, allowing you to use your regular boots and poles.

There are two main types of rollerskis, reflecting the two skiing techniques:

Skating Rollerskis
Shorter in length (530–610 mm) and equipped with narrow, firm wheels (around 100×24 mm), these skis are built for speed, agility, and the lateral push of the skating technique.
Classic Rollerskis
Longer (650–720 mm) and equipped with wider wheels (typically 70×40–50 mm), these skis feature a ratchet mechanism on one or both wheels to prevent rolling backward — essential for performing the classic “kick-and-glide” motion.

Also, rollerskis come with different wheel hardness and wheel bearings that affect how fast they roll. Most manufacturers offer three standard speed levels:

Slow (training/resistance) – great for beginners or endurance workouts
Medium (standard) – the most common all-around option
Fast (race speed) – for advanced skiers and competitions

Whether you’re a competitive skier maintaining form through the summer or a newcomer discovering a fun, full-body outdoor workout, rollerskiing is accessible to all ages and ability levels — a perfect blend of endurance, balance, and pure glide.

10 Reasons Why You Should Rollerski

Train Smart · Stay Fit · Glide All Year

If you love skiing, fitness, or just being outside, rollerskiing might become your new favorite sport. It’s fun, fast, and one of the best full-body workouts you can do — no snow required! Whether you’re training for winter races or just looking for an exciting way to stay active, here are 10 great reasons why you should give rollerskiing a try.

🧡1. Health Benefits That Go Beyond the Gym

Like swimming and cross-country skiing, rollerskiing is a complete sport. Every push and glide strengthens your arms, legs, and core while improving your balance and endurance. It’s also a fantastic cardio workout that’s surprisingly gentle on your knees — perfect for athletes who want intensity without joint impact.

🌤️2. A Workout for Every Season

No snow? No problem! Rollerskiing lets you enjoy ski training all year long — spring, summer, and fall included. You don’t have to worry about short winters, poor grooming, or climate change interruptions. Just grab your gear, find a smooth path, and go.

🎿3. Keep Your Cross-Country Technique Sharp

There’s a saying among skiers: “Skiers are made in the summer.”
Rollerskiing perfectly mimics the motions of cross-country skiing — whether it’s classic, skate, or double-poling. It’s an essential part of off-season training for elite skiers and biathletes, helping you maintain balance, coordination, and endurance until the snow returns.

🚴4. You Can Roll Just About Anywhere

Forget long drives to ski trails — your next workout could be right outside your door. Rollerskiing only requires a bike path, quiet road, or empty parking lot. And if you want to explore more rugged terrain, special rollerskis with pneumatic wheels can even handle crushed gravel paths.

💪5. A Total-Body, High-Energy Workout

Few workouts engage as many muscles as rollerskiing. Every stride works your legs, arms, back, and core while improving stability and posture. You’ll feel stronger, move better, and build endurance faster than with most traditional workouts.

💰6. Affordable and Accessible

Good news: rollerskiing doesn’t break the bank. Rollerskis are often cheaper than snow skis and use standard cross-country bindings, so you can reuse your existing boots and poles. They also last for years, which makes them a smart investment for individuals and families alike.

⚙️7. Low Maintenance, High Durability

No waxing. No flats. No stress.
Modern rollerskis are designed to last — with solid, puncture-proof wheels that can handle over 1,000 miles (1,600 km) before replacement. Just strap in, adjust your poles, and you’re ready to roll.

⚖️8. Build Better Balance and Core Strength

Balancing on rollerskis takes focus and control — which means you’re constantly engaging your core and stabilizing muscles. This not only makes you a better skier but also improves your posture, coordination, and athletic ability in everyday life.

🌱9. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Skip the long drives to snow-covered trails and enjoy the same workout locally. Rollerskiing is an eco-friendly way to stay active outdoors, with zero reliance on lifts, fuel, or snowmaking. It’s fitness that feels good for you — and the planet.

🎉10. It’s Seriously Fun!

Once you find your rhythm, rollerskiing feels smooth, fast, and effortless — like skiing on pavement. The combination of speed, motion, and rhythm makes every session feel more like play than training. It’s a sport that makes fitness feel like play and keeps you smiling from start to finish.

Ready to Roll with PACCSA?

All you need is a pair of rollerskis, poles, a helmet, and a smooth path. Whether you’re an athlete chasing winter goals or someone looking for a fun way to stay fit outdoors, rollerskiing delivers fitness, freedom, and joy — every season of the year.

If you’re ready to give it a try, stay in shape or prepare for the next season come join the PACCSA Rollerski Group!

PACCSA hosts regular group rollerski sessions and beginner clinics in or near Pittsburgh, perfect for learning safely, meeting fellow skiers, and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re brand-new to the sport or looking to sharpen your technique, PACCSA instructors will help you get rolling with confidence.

👉 Let us know if you have any questions or if you'd like to join us!

Learn, practice, and connect with others who love to ski — all year long!