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Soon, people will be able to use privately owned electric scooters to commute, travel and avoid getting stuck in the rain.
We’re blessed with many things in the UK, but the weather isn’t one of them!
If there was one word to summarise the British climate, it would be unpredictable.
Whether it’s spring, summer, autumn or winter, we all know one thing’s for sure; it will rain at some point.
Luckily, the rise in electric modes of transportation means you don’t have to walk or battle through the crowded train and bus stations to make your way to work.
Electric scooters are relatively new to the world of personal electric vehicles. While you cannot use a privately owned electric scooter on public roads in the UK yet, the convenience and sustainability they offer means the law is sure to change.
Are All E-Scooters Waterproof?
While most e-scooters have some form of waterproofing, no scooter is entirely waterproof.
All electrical devices will be vulnerable to water, but many scooters have water-resistant features which enable you to ride them in the rain and snow.
In the electric scooter world, waterproof means water-resistant, and it’s essential to know the difference between both. If a scooter is ‘waterproof’, it means you can ride it in the rain without it getting damaged.
You can’t – however – submerge the electric scooter in water.
So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at how manufacturers measure the water-resistant features of an electric scooter and what you should look for if you plan to commute in the rain.
What Are IP Ratings & Why Are They Important?
When you shop for electric scooters, you’ll notice that each has an IP rating. The Ingress Protection Standard is used internationally to measure how resistant a scooter is, and you’ll see two numbers (e.g. IP54).
The IP rating depends on the materials manufacturers use and how well a scooter performs during testing.
While both digits are important, the first digit shows how durable your electric scooter is against solid foreign bodies and corrosion, while the second digit displays how water-resistant it is.
When looking for the best waterproof electric scooter, the second digit takes priority, so let’s look at what each means:
- X/0 – No protection
- 1 – Some protection against condensation and droplets
- 2 – Protection from water droplets at 15° from vertical
- 3 – Protection from droplets and spray 60° from vertical
- 4 – Protects from water splashes at different angles
- 5 – Protects from minor jets of water from all directions
- 6 – Protection from strong jets of water
- 7 – Protects for up to 30 minutes and 1 metre of total immersion
- 8 – Superior protection as specified by the manufacturer – total immersion for an extended time
- 9 – Protects against washdowns, jets, streams and sprays
Most waterproof electric scooters have an IP rating of 4, 5 or 6. While 4 is the industry standard, anything above 6 is unlikely.
Comparison Table
| E-Scooter | IP Rating | Price | Speed | Range |
| Apollo Explore | IP54 | £1145 | 31 MPH | 34 Miles |
| Go Trax GXL V2 | IP54 | £265 | 15.5 MPH | 12 Miles |
| Kaabo Wolf Warrior 11 | IPX4 | £1650 | 50 MPH | 80 Miles |
| E-Move Cruiser | IPX6 | £1249 | 30 MPH | 62 Miles |
| Xioami M365 | IP54 | £469 | 15.5 MPH | 18 Miles |
| Segway Ninebot Max | IPX5 | £699 | 18.6 MPH | 40 Miles |
*Please note that all of the prices are based on an average and you might find a different price depending on where you shop.
Apollo Explore
| Motor | Rear Motor |
| IP Rating | IP54 |
| Tyre Size | 25.4 cm |
| Wet Traction | 90.7% |
| Deck Traction | 36.6 lbs |
| Fender Protection | 100℃ |
Pros
- 24 month warranty
- Strong deck traction
- Great tyre traction
Cons
- Rear wheel can have a mind of Its own
- Decent IP rating, but could be better
When it comes to electric scooters that offer stand out features, the Apollo Explore gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
Coming with a 24 month warranty, you’re covered for everything but water damage, so make sure you avoid large puddles whenever possible.
The Apollo Explore has a superior braking system, which is ideal for riding in the rain. It’s easy to use the emergency brake when you need to, and you have peace of mind that even in really wet conditions, the scooter has a 3 m stopping distance.
If you’re wondering about the IP rating, you can take advantage of an IP54 with this scooter, which is pretty much the industry standard. You’ll be fine riding in the rain, but should avoid powerful streams of water.
With a maximum speed of 31mph and a range of 34 miles, this handy e-scooter won’t let you down. Overall, it’s a great buy and the tyre traction and deck grips will protect you while riding in the rain.
Go Trax GXL V2
| Motor | 250 Watts |
| IP Rating | IP54 |
| Tyre Size | 21.6 cm |
| Wet Traction | N/A |
| Deck Traction | 26.5 lbs |
| Fender Protection | N/A |
Pros
- Ideal if you’re on a budget
- Decent waterproof rating
Cons
- Very basic in design
- Lacks speed and range
Finding an electric scooter that delivers on power and performance when you’re limited by budget is no easy task – but the Go Trax GXL V2 is one of those scooters that packs a host of features at a low price.
Is it as advanced as the others you’ll see on our list? No. But at £265/$299, this electric scooter has a lot to offer.
For a start, the IP54 rating is similar to much more expensive models, and there’s a max weight restriction of 220lbs.
While the GXL V2 won’t offer the power and extra features of premium scooters, it has a 12-mile range and can reach speeds of up to 15.5mph.
If you’re looking for an electric scooter that can make your commute easier without costing the earth, we’re confident you’ll find the GXL V2 a convenient solution to your needs.
Kaabo Wolf Warrior 11
| Motor | Dual Motor |
| IP Rating | IPX4 |
| Tyre Size | 27.9 cm |
| Wet Traction | 89.3% |
| Deck Traction | 24.8 lbs |
| Fender Protection | 84℃ |
Pros
- Impressive design
- Amazing hydraulic suspension
- Built-in deck lights and headlights
Cons
- Fenders need extending
- Not the most portable e-scooter
Are you looking for a beast of an e-scooter that won’t let you down when it comes to power and stability?
Kaabo Wolf Warrior 11 certainly lives up to its name and can help you get to where you need to be – in style.
The design stands out as much as the name, so if you’re not a fan of sleek electric scooters, you’ll love riding around on this one. It looks like a dirt bike and has a unique hydraulic suspension system that keeps you on course in the worst conditions.
With an IPX4 rating, you’ll have protection from water sprays in all directions, and there’s a 2100wh battery, which is perfect for commuting. It also has deck lighting and ultra-bright headlights to keep you safe while riding in the dark.
It’s best to change the motor to the single and eco mode when it rains for a smooth ride, and you should watch out for the fenders, which don’t offer the best protection.
Overall, this is a powerful electric scooter. There’s no doubt about it, and it certainly makes a big impression. However, the fenders can be an issue, but you can easily extend them for all-weather protection.
Another negative of the Kaboo Wolf Warrior 11 is its size, which could pose issues if you want to store the scooter in your office or have a small apartment. If you’re willing to compromise on portability, then we’re confident this beast won’t let you down.
E-Move Cruiser
| Motor | Rear Motor |
| IP Rating | IPX6 |
| Tyre Size | 25.4 cm |
| Wet Traction | 91.3% |
| Deck Traction | 34 lbs |
| Fender Protection | 114℃ |
Pros
- Long-range
- High waterproof rating
- Built-in turn signals
Cons
- Lack of grip around the edges
If you’re a fan of electric scooters, then you’ve probably heard of the E-Move Cruiser before. It’s well known due to its high waterproof rating of IPX6, which is significantly higher than most models on the market. But, what else does this sleek scooter offer?
Well, it’s a long-range scooter that offers 62 miles of range and an impressive 30mph speed.
You can also take advantage of the built-in turn signals and flat-resistant tyres, which are perfect for riding in difficult conditions.
There’s a 3 m stopping distance, and the deck offers a significant amount of room and extra grips to keep you stable in wet conditions. You might want to put some grip tape on the edges of the deck because the smooth surface could lead to accidents, but it’s not going to cost a lot of money to make that minor alteration.
We love the E-Move Cruiser and feel it delivers on all bases. The only real issue is the deck, which is an easy fix. It’s perfect for the average commuter, and the range of available colours means there’s something for everyone.
Xiaomi M365
| Motor | Rear Motor |
| IP Rating | IP54 |
| Tyre Size | 21.5 cm |
| Wet Traction | 100% |
| Deck Traction | 26.4 lbs |
| Fender Protection | N/A |
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Non-slip handlebars
- Standard waterproofing
Cons:
- No display
- Mediocre range
Often regarded as one of the most popular waterproof electric scooters, the Xiaomi M365 has a loyal fan base.
But can it live up to its name?
Well, the first thing you’ll notice about this e-scooter is its sleek design, which makes it look effortlessly cool. If style’s your thing, you’ll love this scooter.
With an IP54 rating, you can be confident that this electric scooter will offer adequate protection from the rain and has a gentle accelerator so you can generate the power you need without the fear of losing control.
Another feature that we love is the non-slip handlebars, which are perfect for riding in the rain, and the deck has grips for extra protection.
Overall, the Xiaomi M365 is an excellent electric scooter, and it offers 18 miles of range.
While this is impressive, other electric scooters such as the E-Move Cruiser have more range, so it’s worth thinking about how much use you want to get out of each charge.
We’d rate this as one of the best you can find for short distances, but the lack of range and no display screen are two things that many commuters wouldn’t overlook.
Segway Ninebot Max
| Motor | Rear Motor |
| IP Rating | IPX5 |
| Tyre Size | 25.4 cm |
| Wet Traction | 100% |
| Deck Traction | 26.5 lbs |
| Fender Protection | 123℃ |
Pros
- Superb fender protection
- ABS braking system
- Lightweight design
Cons
- If you find one, let us know!
According to Segway, they built the Ninebot Max to be the most durable e-scooter around, and we think they did a fine job with this impressive design. With outstanding fender protection, you’ll be dry and mud-free – perfect for those office commutes!
With an electronic-ABS rear brake and a front drum brake, you can brake effortlessly in the wettest weather conditions, and the average stopping distance is 3 metres. The scooter also delivers an IPX5 rating, meaning it offers good protection in wet conditions.
We love most about the Segway Ninebot’s lightweight design, making it so easy to transport, despite its many features.
We can’t say a single negative thing about this brilliant electric scooter, and after testing it ourselves, we can see why it’s made such an impact in both the private and ride-sharing markets.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Waterproof Electric Scooters For Your Needs
It’s essential to think about the best electric scooter for your needs, which may differ from someone else’s needs. So, to make a choice simpler, you should consider the following points before making a final decision.
What’s Your Budget?
Money wouldn’t be an issue in an ideal world, but staying on budget is a must for most people.
There are some great budget e-scooters out there, but they often lack the range and speed the average commuter requires.
It’s always worth thinking about which electric scooter will provide you with the most long-term value and evaluating each model based on how it will benefit your life.
For example, a budget scooter that only offers 10 miles of use might be cheap, but will it get you to where you need to be? Spending a bit more on an electric scooter means you’ll get more use out of it, and it will last longer.
Are Speed & Range Important?
The speed and range of an electric scooter define how fast and far it will go.
Commuters especially need a reliable scooter, and if you want to avoid crowded buses and train journeys, you’ll need to make sure your e-scooter has a suitable range.
It’s a good idea to measure the distance in miles to and from your place of work and think about how often you want to charge your scooter.
Speed is another factor to think about, but it’s also essential to find an e-scooter that you can handle. Most go up to 25 mph, and although some can reach speeds of 60 mph, you’ll also need to think about public road restrictions.
The UK will make electric scooters legal, but there will be the same speed restrictions as with rental scooters.
Ride Quality
If you’re planning on using your electric scooter to commute daily, then you’ll want it to be comfortable to use. All the electric scooters on this list have great features, but some stand out more than others.
When riding in the rain, it can be challenging to control your steering and brakes. Still, the Apollo Explore and Segway Ninebot Max are equipped with superior braking systems, making it easier to ride in wet weather.
The Kaabo Wolf Warrior is also a great option if you’re looking for a comfortable ride. Its hydraulic system can handle bumpy roads and absorbs the shock so that you can enjoy more stability.
If an electric scooter has a solid build quality, it will last longer, but if you’re on a budget, you can always modify a cheaper scooter to make it more comfortable.
The Best Waterproof Scooter If You’re On A Budget
When your budget restricts you, it’s hard to find a decent electric scooter, but we feel the Go Trax GXL V2 is the best option. OK, it doesn’t have all of the bells and whistles, but it offers a lot for a budget waterproof e-scooter for commuters.
It’s perfect for short commutes with an IP54 rating and a 12-mile range, and it won’t break the bank. Overall, we’re confident you won’t find a better waterproof electric scooter for under £250.
The Best Waterproof Electric Scooter Overall
Three water-resistant electric scooters stand out on this list, and those are the E-Move Cruiser, Xiaomi M365 and Ninebot Segway. If you’re on a budget, the Xiaomi M365 is probably the best choice because it’s significantly cheaper, which is why it’s such a big seller.
However, suppose money isn’t an issue, or you’re willing to invest in a superior e-scooter. In that case, the Segway Ninebot Max offers real value for money, and it’s an investment you won’t regret making. With excellent water resistance and an advanced braking system, you’ll get a lot of use out of this scooter.
Community Questions
Choosing the best electric scooter for your needs is difficult, especially as many great models are around. Here are some questions we regularly receive from our e-scooter enthusiasts.
Is it safe to ride e-scooters in the rain or snow?
While some electric scooters are designed to have water-resistant features, most manufacturers don’t recommend you use your scooter in the rain; this isn’t always possible.
As long as you choose an electric scooter with a decent IP rating and make sure you wear protective gear, you should be OK.
Riding an e-scooter in the rain is more about understanding road safety and showing a bit of common sense.
Snow, however, is a different matter. Some scooters are designed to handle rugged terrain, but you’re still more susceptible to slips and accidents.
Most electric scooter manufacturers would advise you not to ride on snowy or icy surfaces on a regular e-scooter, but an excellent off-road scooter might offer more stability.
Will the warranty cover my scooter if it suffers any water damage?
While the electric scooters on this list are all protected from water, you should still avoid riding them through puddles when you can.
The water resistance rating defines what your scooter can take, but most manufacturers specify that your warranty won’t cover water damage.
The Segway Ninebot Max is one of the most durable electric scooters around, but the warranty states that it doesn’t cover any damage from submersion, freezing and high-pressure water spray.
If you check the warranty of your scooter, you’ll understand what you can and can’t do.
Nely is an adrenaline junkie and one of her life goals is to sky dive, but until that day she gets her kicks from testing fast electric scooters. Part time scooter fanatic & part time SEO analyst. Nely’s favourite scooter is the Dualtron X.
