Can Skateboards Get Wet? (Quick Info!)

Whether you’re an old school skateboarder or a curious newbie, one of the common questions that comes up is, “Can skateboards get wet?”

It can be intimidating to think about taking your beloved board out on those rainy days, but there are actually plenty of ways to still enjoy the sport — even in inclement weather.

In this article, we’ll discuss all aspects of this question: what damage water could do to your skateboard and how best to protect against it.

From choosing the right materials for your board construction to good maintenance techniques and storage tips, we’ve got you covered so read on and start prepping for those dime-turns in the rain.

Quick Answer: Yes, skateboards can get wet. Water can damage the board by causing warping and rusting of bolts. It is important to take measures to protect your skateboard from water damage.

Can Skateboards Get Wet?

When you’re a lover of skateboarding, the last thing you want is for your lovely skateboard to get damaged.

However, accidents happen and sometimes you may find yourself caught in the rain or unexpectedly splashed with water. So, can skateboards get wet? The short answer is yes, they can.

But it’s important to note that heavy exposure to water can lead to damage such as rusted bearings or warped decks.

So, it’s always a good idea to try and keep your board as dry as possible and invest in some waterproof gear for those rainy days.

After all, taking care of your skateboard means taking care of your passion for skating.

What happens if I leave my skateboard out in the rain?

From rusted bearings to waterlogged decks, leaving your skateboard out in the rain can cause a lot of damage.

Explore what really happens when you leave your skateboard out in the rain and why it’s important to take proper care of your skateboard.

Water Damages the Bearings

Water is the biggest enemy of skateboard bearings.

When water gets into the bearings, it causes rusting, which damages the bearing’s ability to work properly.

Once rust starts forming, the bearing will be harder to rotate, making it difficult for you to get the speed you need.

Rusted bearings are noisier and don’t roll smoothly. It’s crucial to protect your bearings from water damage to prevent rusting.

Wet Decks Lead to Delamination

Skateboard decks are made of layers of wood that are held together with glue.

When they get wet, the glue gets weakened, and the wood layers start to separate. This is called delamination, and it’s a significant problem.

If your deck becomes really wet, it might not return to its original shape when it dries, causing permanent damage.

Trucks Rust and Corrode

Trucks are what attach the wheels to the deck, and they are usually made of metal.

If they stay wet for too long, the metal can rust and corrode, which will weaken the trucks.

Rusted trucks might snap and break down quickly, which can be dangerous when riding at high speeds.

Grip Tape Becomes Slippery

Grip tape is what keeps your feet from slipping off the board. When it gets wet, it becomes slippery, making it harder for you to keep your foot on the board.

This not only affects your riding performance but also increases your chances of getting hurt.

Drying the Skateboard Helps

If your skateboard gets wet, the first thing you should do is to dry it off as soon as possible. Use a clean towel to wipe the water off the deck and trucks.

Also, try to remove the trucks and dry them separately. Finally, depending on the amount of water that got into your skateboard, it might be necessary to dry it off overnight.

What do I do if my skateboard gets wet?

When you’re out and about on your skateboard and suddenly find yourself in a downpour, it can feel disheartening to think about how the water might damage your skateboard.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to protect your board and make sure it stays in excellent condition even when it gets wet.

Dry your skateboard off as soon as you can

If you are caught in the rain with your skateboard, the first step is to dry it off as soon as possible.

Use a dry cloth or towel to wipe down the deck and wheels, paying particular attention to the bearings which can be prone to rust.

Whatever you do, don’t leave your skateboard to dry in the sun; not only can it cause the wood to warp, but the heat can also damage the graphics on your board.

Instead, leave it in a cool, dry place to air dry naturally. 

Replace rusty bearings

If you skateboard frequently, you’ll know that bearings are one of the most important parts of your board as they keep your wheels spinning smoothly.

Unfortunately, rainy weather can cause damage to bearings, leading to rust which affects their performance.

Thankfully, it’s easy to replace rusty bearings so don’t hesitate if you notice any issues with your skateboard post-rain. 

Avoid puddles

The best way to protect your skateboard from water damage is to avoid puddles altogether.

Keep an eye out for areas with standing water, and try to find an alternative path if possible.

Puddles can cause damage to the bearings and hardware on your skateboard, and a severe soaking can even warp the wood.

If this is unavoidable in your regular skate spots, consider investing in some waterproof coatings or coverings to keep your skateboard dry.

Clean your board regularly

Another way to keep your skateboard in good condition is to clean it regularly, particularly if you’ve been out skating in rainy conditions.

Use a damp cloth to wipe down your board after each ride, focusing on the areas that are most vulnerable to water damage like the bearings and hardware.

You can also use a high-quality cleaner to remove dirt and grime that may have accumulated from skateboarding on wet surfaces.

Store your skateboard properly

Finally, it’s important to store your skateboard correctly when it’s not in use.

Keep it away from damp areas, and make sure it’s not resting on a damp surface like a concrete floor or a wet towel.

Tuck it away in a dry cupboard or cupboard, and consider covering it with a skateboard bag or case for extra protection.

Not only will this keep your deck in excellent condition, but it will also help to extend the life of your skateboard too.

How long does it take for a skateboard to dry?

When it comes to drying a skateboard, it largely depends on the method you use and the climate in which you’re drying it.

Typically, a skateboard will take around 24 hours to fully dry after being exposed to moisture. If the weather is warm, dry, and sunny, it may only take a couple of hours for the board to fully dry.

However, if the climate is cool, damp, or rainy, the drying process can take much longer. It’s important to note that drying your skateboard out in direct sunlight can cause the wood to warp or crack, so it’s best to dry it in the shade or indoors if possible.

Wiping down your skateboard with a towel or cloth after use can help prevent moisture buildup and make the drying process quicker.

Overall, it’s best to allow plenty of time for your skateboard to fully dry to prevent any damage and ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

After examining the various implications of wet skateboards, we can conclude that as long as you are careful when skateboarding on wet components and keep your board clean and dry for storage, it is safe to skateboard in damp conditions.

However, you may want to think twice before going out on a rainy day: wet surfaces can reduce the amount of friction between your wheels and your skateboard’s deck, making it more difficult to accelerate, turn and stop.

Moreover, keep in mind that not all components are designed to be ridden while they’re still wet; metal trucks can rust, bearings require special attention and bushings will cause one to lose grip if they get too wet.

If you plan on riding in the rain or moist environments often – such as through puddles – then it may be a good idea for you to invest in water-resistant components.

With the right measures taken and basic precaution practiced when skateboarding in damp conditions, you can maintain control of your board even when things get a bit slippery.

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