Rollers & Skids

Launching a boat made easier with rollers & skids

Getting your boat on and off the trailer should feel simple. That’s why it helps to have gear that keeps things steady and reduces wear. We stock a wide range of hardware built for trailers of all sizes, with parts made to handle tough Australian ramps and coastlines.

From heavy-duty rollers to plastic skids and complete alignment kits, there's something here for every setup. These parts are built to last and made to suit both aluminium and fibreglass boats, helping you keep your trailer in top shape for the long haul.

What are boat rollers and what do they do?

Boat rollers are round supports mounted on your trailer. They help your boat roll smoothly during launch and retrieval. This makes it easier to move the boat and prevents scraping. Most rollers are made from plastic or polyurethane, which reduces friction and lasts longer than rubber.

Some are shaped to fit the keel or sides of the hull. Others spin freely to guide the boat into place. They're often used with fibreglass hulls and are great for deeper ramps or solo launches.

What are boat trailer skids and how do they work?

Boat trailer skids are long plastic strips that act like low-friction runners. They help the boat slide on or off the trailer without dragging or catching. Skids are fixed in place, giving more support across the hull.

They work well for boats with flatter bottoms and are often used instead of rollers for shallow ramps. Skids are usually made from hard plastic like HDPE and don’t wear down as fast as timber.

What’s the difference between rollers and skids?

Rollers spin and guide your boat. Skids stay fixed and help your boat slide. Rollers make it easier to launch and retrieve, especially on steep ramps. Skids give more even support and work well with shallow ramps or flat-bottomed boats.

If your boat is heavy or has a soft hull, rollers are ideal. If your trailer sits low or you want less moving parts, skids might be the better pick. Some trailers use both to balance support and movement.

What material is best for my boat?

If your boat is aluminium, go for hard blue rollers made from HDPE or hard polypropylene. These won’t wear down easily and hold up well under heavier loads. They’re tough and better suited for metal hulls.

For fibreglass boats, use softer red polyurethane. It’s non-marking and less abrasive, so it won’t scratch or chip your hull. Poly rollers also help reduce friction, which makes launching and loading smoother.