A frequently asked question when it comes to electric scooters is “are they waterproof?" We advise most e-scooters against using the device in rainy and wet weather or at least limit the time users spend in those conditions. However, some e-scooters can handle wet weather more than others, and that is why we add an IP+number to scale their water resistance abilities.
What is an electric scooter IP rating?
You might have noticed that within the description of an e scooter there is an IP rating, -- like IP54 or IP57. The IP rating is a basic system that determines to which level your electric vehicle is protected from the environment.
The IP stands for “Ingress Protection” or “International Protection”, meaning undesired exposure to items entering, for example, contaminants, dust, or water. The first number after IP relates to the electric vehicles’ efficiency to withstand dust and soil, and the second number moisture and water. It is on a scale from 1-9, the highest number being the most resistant to ingress of soil and water.
The IP ranking will give you an indication when buying an e-scooter of how protected the electronics within are when exposed to the environment. This ranking will normally be in the product manual or product description.
Interpretation of the Electric Scooter IP Rating Table
In this table, we have focused mostly on how water repellent the different IP levels are since it is more common issue riders face than dust protection.
Normally, electric motor vehicles are tolerant towards normal dust soil conditions even if they do not display their IP rating. However, severe dust storms are not recommended to ride in. On the other hand, many electric scooters are not waterproof and are advised against riding in wet climates.
The most common IP ranking is IP54 which has a small level of water resistance and can ride on wet ground and in sparse rain. BUT to be on the safe side and not risk electric damages, manufacturers advise against riding in these conditions or at least be cautious.
The table below is a standard interpretation of the IP ratings regarding the electric scooter's ability to withstand water and moisture. However, this varies from product to product, check your item manual. It is also your responsibility to inquire what is covered by your vehicle warranty, as the manufacturer's warranty may vary.
| IP Rating | Riding Environment |
| No IP | Not water resistant advised to not ride in the rain or wet conditions. |
| IP54 or IPX4 | Some degree of water resistance. Can ride on wet ground, in fog, light and sparse rain, and occasionally off-road. However, it is not recommended to use it regularly in wet conditions. |
| IP55 or IPX5 | Medium water resistance. Can handle riding in steady, light rain and puddles. The device is unlikely to get damaged when riding in wet conditions. However, be conscious that there is no guarantee that it won’t harm the electronics. |
| IP56 or IPX6 | Water resistance. This device should have no problem riding in steady rain, off-road terrain, and puddles. Even so, check manufacturers' advice before use in heavy rain.
Note: Very few electric scooters with this IP rating on the market. |
| IP57 or IPX7 | High water resistance. This device can be temporarily submerged underwater (30 minutes in 1 meter)
Note: Very rare to find an e-scooter with this ranking. |
If my electric scooter doesn’t have an IP rating. How can I tell if it’s waterproof?
Electric scooters with no IP rating can mean two things. Either it has not been tested for its water protection capabilities OR it underwent the test but did not perform up to standards. In some cases, even though there is a given IP ranking, some manufacturers might still recommend against using the vehicle in light rain or wet ground. For instance, powerful and high-speed e-scooters are in some cases advised against riding in slippery conditions as it is considered too dangerous and unsafe -- a high risk of injuries.
If it does not say in your scooter manual what the IP is or you are unsure, the best approach would be to contact the store where you bought the device or the manufacturer and ask for their advice as it might vary from brand to brand and model to model. Better be safe than sorry!
What are the best waterproof electric scooters?
Ninebots and Segway models are considered water-resistant with an IP54, like our Segway Ninebot One Z10 Electric Unicycle and Segway Ninebot S PRO e-Transporter. Their batteries are sufficient being exposed to drizzel of water but riding through a downpour and heavy rain in 30-60 centimeters of water is not good for the device.
What this means in the real world is that you have to interpret and measure what is considered wet weather, as well as the risk of riding in those conditions. The rule of thumb is that the vehicles can handle occasional sparse rain and splashes of small amounts of water, but do not leave the device outside or immersed in water. As this will guarantee damage to the item.
By saying all of these, we strongly recommend that you don’t ride your electric scooter in the rain. We offer the best high-quality e-scooters with good product descriptions, so have a look, check its features and benefits and look after this incredible and fun acquisition, even if it’s still on its warranty period.