10mm Spring-Loaded Rollerski Ferrule

Many skiers have reported injuries, and more frequently aggravation of old injuries, from the shock of the ski pole hitting the pavement. For this reason, some pole companies introduced shock absorbing roller ski ferrules. But skiers told us the carbide tips on the shock absorbing models often broke after a short period of use.

For twenty-five years V2 has had a worldwide reputation for good roller ski ferrules. When we decided to make a shock-absorbing ferrule, we knew from experience that spring loading the carbide tip housing was not the answer. To be durable, the carbide tip must be securely embedded in the plastic housing, and the housing firmly fastened to the ski pole. We decided to use an independent damping system so if it should fail, the carbide tip would still be intact, and the skier would be able to pole home.

Most skiers liked our first damping ferrules. The plunger was nylon with a drive screw for the tip. But many skiers told us that more damping would make the ferrule even better. To me more damping made sense because for a long time I have had serious right shoulder problem. Being active all my life it’s impossible to pinpoint the cause of my sore shoulder but I believe one reason is forty years of roller skiing. More damping required a metal plunger and a stiffer spring. We chose a grade 12/9 bolt, the hardest 4mm available, but with the increased spring pressure against the pavement, the head of the bolt abraded long before the carbide tip wore down.