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Snowless skiing goes cross country with Skike...
UK fans of cross-country skiing can now enjoy a never-ending season with the launch of a new rollerski offering serious on- and off-road capability. Leading cross-country skiing supplier, Euroski (www.rollerskiing.co.uk), is introducing the Skike rollerski to the British market, enabling snow sports enthusiasts to practise during the summer months without being restricted to roads and footpaths.
Skike is a clever combination of skis and a bike. Unlike traditional rollerskis, Skike has two wide pneumatic tyres to give a better grip and the ground clearance needed to tackle rough terrain. Users don't need special boots, as the fitted straps can be adjusted to fit regular shoes, and rear brakes give greater control on uneven ground and downhill stretches.
Skike is favoured off-season by competitive skiers such as world champion and gold medallist Evi Sachenbacher Stehle, who uses the rollerski to keep in shape. Mike Dixon, BBC broadcaster and leader of the British Nordic ski team at the Norwegian Olympics, has ordered 20 pairs for his Aviemore Biathlon club, to help members avoid the dangers of road training on conventional rollerskis. Another user is Timo Bracht the German 2007 European Iron Man who uses Skike rollerskis for training.
Tom Pritchard-Jones, director of Euroski, says: "Skiking is a great cross trainer - cheaper than gym membership and far more entertaining. Whether you're a cross-country skier wanting a fix long after the snow has gone, or just looking to get fit while enjoying the great outdoors, Skike fits the bill."
Skike - available online at www.rollerskiing.co.uk - can be used by people weighing up to 120 kg and with shoe sizes from 4-12. The model for children and people with small feet costs £134 and the full size model costs £169, with poles costing from £28.
