Electric skateboards are an exciting and efficient way to commute, but riding an eskateboard in the rain or on wet pavement brings serious safety risks. Even though many electric skateboards feature some level of water resistance, these ratings are meant to protect the electronics from minor splashes, not to make the eboard safe for wet-weather riding.
As a brand committed to rider safety and performance, OMW Boards encourages riders to understand the real risks of wet-surface riding and to prioritize safe riding environments.
In this guide, we break down why riding an electric skateboard in the rain is unsafe and what every rider should know.
Why Riding an Electric Skateboard on Wet Roads Is Not Safe?
1. Traction Drops Dramatically on Wet Surfaces
Wet pavement severely weakens the grip between your wheels and the ground, whether you're using PU wheels or pneumatic tires.
- Water drastically reduces friction:
Acting like a lubricant, water causes the wheels to lose traction quickly, especially when turning, accelerating, or braking.
- Hydroplaning can occur even in shallow water:
At moderate to high speeds, a thin layer of water can lift the wheels off the ground, causing hydroplaning and a complete loss of control.
- Hidden slippery hazards become more dangerous:
Surfaces such as wet metal manhole covers, painted road markings, fallen leaves, oil patches, mud, and damp cobblestones can become extremely slippery, causing sudden wheel slip.
2. Braking Becomes Much Less Effective
Riding on wet roads doesn’t only affect traction, it also seriously compromises braking performance.
- Stopping distance increases significantly:
With reduced grip, the eskateboard needs more distance to stop. In crowded or high-traffic areas, this can dramatically increase the chance of accidents.
- Higher chance of wheel lock-up or side-sliding:
Hard braking on wet pavement often causes wheels to lock up and slide sideways. Even regenerative braking systems found in many OMW boards become less effective in the rain due to limited traction.
Are Electric Skateboards Waterproof? Understanding IP Ratings
Most electric skateboards, including models from OMW Boards, come with water-resistance ratings such as IP55 or IP56. These ratings protect against light splashes and dust, but not full waterproofing.
This means:
- Riding through puddles can damage electronic components.
- Water can penetrate motor housings or wheel bearings.
- Long-term exposure to moisture can cause corrosion or sudden power loss.
At OMW, we design all electric skateboards with practical weather resistance for real-world commuting, but we also educate riders that water resistance does not mean rainproof.
OMW Boards’ Recommendation for Safe Riding
As a brand deeply committed to rider safety, we strongly advise:
- Avoid riding in rain or on visibly wet pavement whenever possible.
- Reduce speed immediately if you unexpectedly encounter wet surfaces.
- Avoid metal covers, road paint, and other slippery materials when the road is damp.
- Let your board fully dry after any exposure to water before charging.
These precautions help protect not just your board’s components, but more importantly, your safety.
Final Thoughts: Ride Smart, Stay Safe
Electric skateboarding offers freedom, speed, and excitement, but wet-weather riding is one of the most underestimated hazards in the e-mobility world. Understanding how water affects traction, stability, and braking can prevent injuries and extend the life of your eboard.
OMW Boards will always prioritize safe riding and transparent guidance for our community.
Choose dry conditions, stay alert, and enjoy the ride with confidence.
