Are Electric Scooters Waterproof & Can You Ride Them In The Rain?
If you're looking to ride through the city without breaking the bank, buying an e-scooter is a great option. Reputable and established brands typically sell e-scooters that can withstand being ridden in the typical British weather.
"Water-resistant" is not the same as "Waterproof." So, don't use your electric scooter in areas where there's a chance of deep water. Or extreme conditions such as flash floods or overflowing rivers. These will render your electric scooter inoperable and may also permanently damage your electric scooter. Only take your electric scooter out for a spin if there is a likely chance of a lot of standing water.
Never fully submerge your electric scooter in water. That will void the warranty and might damage electric components beyond repair.
Some brands, such as Pure Air Gen 2 or Pure Air Go. They sell models that are better equipped to cope with constant rain. For example, the Pure Air Pro is IP65 rated, great for all terrains, and perfect for tackling any weather.
The ideal temperature for riding and charging is the same as what a human can tolerate --avoid placing your electric scooter outside during winter. However, if temperatures dip below freezing and it's raining or sleeting, avoid riding your e-scooter. This can cause strain on both the battery and the motor.
Is my e-scooter waterproof?
E-scooters differ considerably when it comes to their weather resistance. Some have measures that protect their internal parts from light splashes, others have waterproof enclosures, and others have no protection.
When buying an e-scooter, one of the first things people check is its IP (Ingress Protection) rating. It is an international standard that gauges how equipment can ward off water and dust without damaging its internal parts. It is essential that e-scooter manufacturers clearly state these numbers in their product specifications.
Two numbers designate IP ratings. The first number measures the protection level from dust and fine particles, while the second unit connotes moisture protection. A higher figure means a higher protection level. Numbers start from zero to five (or above). In some brands, the number starts from X instead of zero.
| IP Rating | Riding Conditions |
| None | Possibly some water resistance, but not guaranteed; not advisable for wet conditions |
| IPX4 | Wet ground, mist/fog; light infrequent rain |
| IPX5 |
Light, constant rain, puddles |
| IP34 |
Infrequent dusty, rocky roads; wet ground, mist/fog Light, infrequent rain |
| IP54 |
Occasional off-roading; wet ground, mist/fog Light, infrequent rain |
| IP55 | Ocassional off-roading; puddles, light, constant rain |
| IP65 | All-terrain; puddles, light, constant rain |
| IP67 | All-terrain; heavy, constant rain, some immersion |
Nearly all electric scooters are tolerant to everyday dust and dirt conditions, even when not given an IP rating. However, extreme environments like dust storms are not advised. However, not all electric scooters are water resistant, and it is not advisable to ride them in the rain.
If your scooter doesn't have IP rating or numbers ending in a 2 or 3, don't ride it in the rain under any circumstances.
Tips on how to protect your e-scooter
Nobody wants their e-scooter to die within a short time of owing it. Hence, it is necessary to protect it from water damage. Here are some tips to follow.
- Don't Ride Your Scooter in the Rain or Snow
We have extensively highlighted why riding your scooter when it rains is terrible. So, if you want your scooter to stand the taste of time, take it indoors or under a shade when it's raining, and start using it when the floors dry.
- Always Keep Your Scooter Dry
Sometimes, getting wet is inevitable. If your scooter does get wet. Dry it with a dry, clean and absorbent cloth when you get home or use a wet/dry vacuum cleaner if you think the water has entered the inner components. If you have a foldable model, wait to fold it until it has been left to dry in a well-ventilated room for at least 24 hours.
If you get caught in a torrential downpour, the e-scooter stops working. Park it indoors for a few days and allow it to dry out entirely before charging or re-using your e-scooter.
- Essential Wet Weather Accessories & Checks
Always wear a helmet and wet weather gear. Also, ensure you have LED lights to be seen and choose an e-scooter with a slip-proof platform plus mudguards to protect the feet and legs from water splashes. Correctly inflated tyres perform better in the rain, although you do risk punctures with them with bits of debris on the road.
READ NEXT: A Guide To E-Scooter Tyre Punctures
Summary
If you want to ride an electric scooter in the rain, buy a cheap electric scooter and only ride in dry conditions, avoid heavy rain and puddles, or purchase an expensive option and ride without the stress of getting home before the next downpour.
One thing is sure, manufacturers will continue making waterproof electric scooters in the future because we all would like an all-weather electric scooter. I don't know about you, but we won't stop riding in the sun, rain or snow.