Roller Ski Maintenance Guide: Wheels, Bearings & Brakes (2026)
Closeup FF skate rollerskis 2020 model

Roller Ski Maintenance Guide

Proper maintenance keeps your rollerskis safe, fast and durable. This guide shows you how to check, clean, dry and store your FF Rollerskis step by step – based on real-world use in Nordic conditions.

Poor maintenance is one of the most common causes of wheel failure and loss of control on rollerskis. A few minutes per session is all it takes.

1. Pre-Session Checklist

Before every training session, make sure to:

  • Tighten all screws and fasteners
  • Confirm that bindings are intact and securely mounted
  • Inspect wheels for cracks, cuts, or uneven wear
  • Spin the wheels and listen for unusual noise

Tip: Switch skis between your left and right foot regularly to even out wear and extend wheel life.

2. Cleaning After Use

To keep your skis in great shape:

  • Remove gravel, sand and dirt from wheels and suspension after every session
  • Wipe with a dry cloth after each use to remove dirt and moisture
  • Rinse gently with water if needed (no high-pressure washers or harsh chemicals)
  • Dry thoroughly, especially around wheel bearings to avoid rust

3. Proper Drying

If your skis get wet:

  • Hang them vertically to allow water to drain
  • Place on a heated floor to evaporate moisture
  • Use a hairdryer for quicker drying if necessary
  • If used only on dry asphalt, a wipe with a towel is usually enough
Closeup FF skate rollerskis 2020 model
Closeup FF skate rollerskis 2020 model

4. Suspension System Maintenance

Comfort and shock absorption depend on a well-maintained suspension:

Maintaining your equipment by following these routines will preserve elasticity and your rollerskis performance

Apply silicone spray to rubber dampers after every wash

Inspect rubber components regularly – natural rubber wears faster when exposed to road salt, dust, and mud.

5. Bearing Check

Bearings ensure a smooth, silent ride. Here’s how to monitor them:

Never oil sealed bearings — just replace when worn

Spin the wheels by hand and listen for rumbling, grinding or uneven rolling sounds

If wheels don’t spin freely or make noise, the bearings should be replaced. Worn bearings reduce speed, damage the wheels and affect safety.

6. Brake Check

If your rollerskis have a brake or speed reducer, check it before every session – especially before training in hilly terrain:

  • Test the brake at low speed on flat ground before you head downhill
  • Check that the brake blade and its fasteners are tight and undamaged
  • Replace worn or damaged brake parts before your next session – never ride with a brake that does not engage evenly

Brake Blade Classic · Brake Blade Skate · Roller ski brakes guide

7. Storage

Store your roller skis:

  • In a dry, indoor space at room temperature
  • Away from direct sunlight or humidity
  • Off the floor if possible to allow airflow
  • Not in cold garages or damp basements
  • Never put the skis away wet after training

8. Full Annual Service

We recommend a complete service at least once per year, depending on how often you use your skis. Frequent training may require more frequent checkups.

Buy new SKF bearings →

Closeup FF skate rollerskis 2020 model

9. Before Sending Skis for Service

If you are returning your skis or wheels for maintenance:

  • Make sure they are completely cleaned and dry
  • Remove all dirt, mud, and debris
  • Clean components protect bearings and ensure better results

Quick Maintenance Checklist

Before training:

  • ✔ Screws tight
  • ✔ No visible damage
  • ✔ Wheels roll smoothly
  • ✔ Brake works (if fitted)

After training:

  • ✔ Remove dirt and gravel
  • ✔ Rinse if wet
  • ✔ Dry completely

Regular care:

  • ✔ Check bearings for noise
  • ✔ Apply silicone spray to the suspension
  • ✔ Alternate left/right skis
  • ✔ Full service once a year

10. How to Change Wheels

Changing wheels is quick if you follow these steps:

  1. Loosen and remove the axle nut, then take off the old wheel.
  2. Check the bearings: spin them by hand and replace them if they rumble or grind.
  3. Fit the new wheel with new lock nuts. A used lock nut can lose its grip and work loose.
  4. Tighten the nut firmly and check that the wheel spins freely without side play.

🎥 Watch why you should always replace the nuts ↓

Need new wheels? Shop rollerski wheels →


Safety First: Replace the Nuts When Fitting New Wheels

Always use new lock nuts when you fit new wheels. This short video shows why.