Roller skis are one of the most important training tools for skiers during the dryland season. However, rolling on asphalt requires much harder tips than those used for snow poles. Do you know the different types, how to easily change them at home or in the field, and how to maintain them so you don’t have to keep buying new ones?

For roller skiing, special tips are used, commonly known as carbide tips. These are made from sintered carbide, a compound of cobalt and tungsten carbide. This alloy, used to manufacture durable tips for asphalt, is much harder than the material used for regular snow pole tips. So, we strongly advise against using snow baskets on asphalt, after just a few kilometers, the tips will become dull and need replacing.

Correct diameter

If you’re buying special roller ski tips, be sure to get the correct diameter to match your poles. Several brands offer screw-on baskets and tips, making replacement quick and easy. However, cheaper pole models often don’t offer this option.

If your poles don’t have a replaceable tip system, don’t worry. Replacing winter baskets with summer asphalt tips is very simple and, with a bit of practice, takes about 3 minutes—just slightly longer than the screw-on versions.

Replacement process

Heat water in an electric kettle—not boiling, so you don’t damage the carbon ends of the poles (if they’re carbon). Aim for about 60–70°C (140–158°F), just hot enough that it’s uncomfortable to hold your finger in it. Pour the water into a mug. Hot tap water may also work if your boiler runs hot enough. Submerge the tip of the pole with the basket in the mug and let it sit for about 15–20 seconds. Then take the pole out and easily remove the wet basket with a cloth. Another method is to use a hot air gun.

Next, take a lighter and glue for baskets (the same type sold as hot glue sticks). Warm the glue with the lighter and apply it around the tip of the pole—where the new tip will contact it. Reheat the glue slightly with the lighter (be careful not to damage the carbon) and attach the new tip. Make sure it’s oriented correctly—otherwise, you’ll have to repeat the process. If you apply too much glue, it will simply squeeze out around the tip and harden, and you can peel it off easily. Let the poles cool down for about 10–15 minutes before using them for training.

Spare parts for training

If you’re planning a long training session, it’s wise to take a spare tip, glue, and a lighter in your pocket or waist pack—just in case. If a tip breaks, you can repeat the process in the field, using the lighter instead of hot water. Again, be careful not to damage the carbon. If you’re really in a pinch and have no lighter, matches will work too—but you’ll need a lot of patience and likely an entire box.

If you break the pole above the tip, you’re out of luck. You’ll need to grit your teeth and make your way home with just one pole.

Sharpening

Even special roller ski tips wear down and become rounded over time. You don’t need to constantly buy new ones—just sharpen the old ones, preferably with a diamond file. You can also use a grinder, which is faster and more effective, but removes more material. Generally, after about 100 km of use, it’s time to sharpen them—though it depends on the asphalt type and how much force you apply.

In summer, tips slip less because of warmer, softer asphalt. The problem comes in autumn, when temperatures don’t exceed 10°C (50°F), and the tips start slipping more. Unfortunately, there’s no magic fix—just grit your teeth and stay calm, or head abroad to warmer places, or onto snow.

Useful links

For many skiers, May marks the start of a new season and dryland training, with roller skiing an essential part of preparation. Although roller skiing is the most specific form of training, it also carries a risk of injury and accidents. Do you know how to avoid them? Read more here.

Are you wondering which roller skis to choose? Whether you’re buying your first pair or looking for new and more advanced skis, the Roller Ski Guide 2025 is packed with this year’s models, tips, and advice for your purchase. This year, the guide has been updated with even more models.

Also Read: Roller Ski Guide 2025

Are you interested in equipment for skiing and roller skiing? Click HERE and read more about it.