Ever skated through a puddle only to have muddy water splash up your back? That’s not just uncomfortable—it’s a problem that can ruin both your training session and your expensive gear. Roller skiing has exploded in popularity as cross-country skiers seek year-round training options, but many enthusiasts overlook one crucial accessory: mudguards.
Installing your own mudguards isn’t just economical—it’s empowering. With a few simple tools and about 30 minutes of your time, you can transform your roller skiing experience from splashy to smooth. The best part? You don’t need to be mechanically inclined to nail this DIY project.
The mudguard advantage
Mudguards aren’t just about keeping clean. They provide three critical benefits:
- Protection for your equipment: Grit and moisture can damage bearings and wheels
- Extended gear lifespan: Less cleaning means less wear from aggressive scrubbing
- Improved visibility: No more squinting through spray on downhills
What you’ll need
Your installation toolkit is refreshingly simple:
- Roller ski-specific mudguards (front and rear sets)
- Phillips screwdriver or Allen wrench (depending on your model)
- Measuring tape
- Marker pen
- Optional: threadlocker for secure fastening
Safety first
Before grabbing your tools, remember these precautions:
- Work in a well-lit area with a stable surface
- Ensure roller skis are completely clean and dry
- Double-check compatibility between your mudguards and ski model
With proper preparation, you’ll be splashing through puddles worry-free in no time—while keeping your training gear (and your back) pristine.
Transform Your Roller Ski Experience with DIY Mudguards
Let’s face it—roller skiing in wet conditions without mudguards is like jumping into a puddle wearing white pants. You’re going to get splattered! But with the right approach, installing mudguards on roller skis by yourself can be surprisingly straightforward and immensely rewarding. I’ve helped countless athletes upgrade their gear, and I’m pumped to walk you through this game-changing modification that’ll keep you dry and focused on your technique.
The process of installing mudguards on roller skis by yourself: step-by-step instructions doesn’t require engineering expertise—just some attention to detail and the right tools. Whether you’re training through spring showers or navigating damp trails, proper mudguards make all the difference between a productive session and a soggy mess.
Prepping Your Roller Skis
Before diving into installation, proper preparation is crucial:
- Clean thoroughly – Remove all dirt and debris from your roller skis, especially around mounting areas
- Inspect for damage – Check for cracks or wear that might affect installation
- Gather tools – You’ll need a screwdriver (typically Phillips), Allen wrench set, and possibly a drill with 3mm bit
Most modern roller skis from brands like Swix or Marwe come with pre-drilled holes for accessories. If yours don’t, measure carefully before creating mounting points.
Perfect Positioning for Maximum Protection
The positioning of your mudguards determines their effectiveness:
Front mudguards should be:
- Positioned 1-2cm above the wheel
- Angled slightly downward (5-10 degrees)
- Centered over the wheel’s path
Rear mudguards require:
- Higher clearance (2-3cm above wheel)
- Wider coverage area
- Slightly longer extension behind the wheel
Pro tip: Use masking tape to temporarily position mudguards and test their placement before permanent installation.
Secure Mounting Techniques
| Fastener Type | Best For | Durability Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Zip ties | Quick installation | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Bolts & nuts | Permanent solution | ★★★★★ |
| Bracket mounts | Premium setups | ★★★★☆ |
When securing your mudguards:
- Start with loose connections – This allows for adjustments before final tightening
- Check clearance during rotation – Spin wheels slowly to ensure no contact points
- Apply thread locker – A small drop of medium-strength thread locker like Loctite Blue prevents vibration loosening
The stability of your mudguards directly impacts your training experience. Wobbly guards create distracting noise and can eventually fail when you least expect it. Double-check all mounting points after your first test ride and again after 5-10 miles of use.
For carbon fiber mudguards, be careful not to overtighten fasteners—you’ll risk cracking these lightweight options. Plastic varieties from manufacturers like Start offer more flexibility during installation but may require more frequent adjustment.
With these mudguards properly installed, you’ll enjoy cleaner training sessions and significantly reduced maintenance on your roller ski bearings and boots. The 15 minutes you spend on proper installation will save hours of cleaning and extend the life of your equipment substantially.
Mastering Your DIY Roller Ski Mudguard Setup
You’ve measured, cut, and attached your mudguards to your roller skis—but the job isn’t complete until you’ve verified they’ll perform when you need them most. Let’s dive into the final (and arguably most crucial) phase of your DIY mudguard installation: testing, troubleshooting, and maintaining your new splash protection system.
Put Those Guards Through Their Paces
Before hitting your favorite training route, conduct a thorough functionality test:
-
The Splash Test: Find a puddle or wet surface and roll through at various speeds. Your mudguards should deflect water away from your body without creating excessive drag.
-
The Vibration Check: Accelerate to your typical training speed and listen for unusual rattling. Properly installed mudguards should remain silent and stable.
-
The Clearance Verification: Perform your standard skating movements, ensuring the mudguards don’t interfere with your technique or contact your boots during aggressive pushes.
Remember that proper testing now prevents frustrating adjustments when you’re miles from home in unexpected rain.
When Things Don’t Go According to Plan
Even meticulous installations sometimes need tweaking. Here’s how to address common issues:
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Excessive vibration | Loose mounting hardware | Tighten all screws and verify bracket alignment |
| Water still reaching legs | Insufficient guard length or height | Extend guard coverage or adjust angle |
| Guards hitting boots | Improper positioning | Reposition guards farther from boot path |
| Cracking sounds during use | Stress points from rigid mounting | Add flexible washers or adjust mounting pressure |
Pro tip: If your mudguards flex too much during high-speed training, reinforce them with a thin strip of aluminum along the center spine for added rigidity without significant weight gain.
Extending Mudguard Lifespan
Your DIY mudguards will face harsh conditions—road debris, UV exposure, and constant vibration. Implement these maintenance practices to maximize durability:
-
Regular Inspection: After every 3-5 training sessions, check mounting points for loosening screws and early signs of stress cracks.
-
Clean Thoroughly: Road grime contains abrasive particles that can gradually wear down your guards. Rinse with clean water after muddy sessions and use mild soap for deeper cleaning monthly.
-
Winter Storage: If you swap to snow skis seasonally, remove mudguards completely, clean thoroughly, and store flat in a temperature-controlled environment to prevent warping.
The difference between mudguards that last one season versus three often comes down to these simple maintenance habits.
For those training in particularly harsh conditions, consider applying a thin coat of UV-resistant clear coat to plastic guards every spring. Products like Krylon UV-Resistant Clear Coating can significantly extend the life of your DIY creation by preventing sun damage and brittleness.
By properly testing, troubleshooting, and maintaining your roller ski mudguards, you’re not just protecting yourself from road spray—you’re protecting your investment in both time and materials. The fifteen minutes you spend on maintenance each month can save hours of rebuilding guards later, keeping you rolling smoothly through whatever conditions your training plan demands.