What’s up, my fellow adventurers! Today, we’re diving into a question that’s been on the minds of many riders: can skateboards get wet? You know, I’ve always been told that you shouldn’t mix water and electricity, but what about water and skateboards? Now, I know what you might be thinking. “Steve, that’s a silly question. Of course, they can get wet!” But hold on, my friends. Just because skateboards can get wet doesn’t mean they should.
In this post, we’re going to explore everything you need to know about protecting your beloved board from potential water damage. From the best waterproofing methods to maintenance tips for wet conditions, we’ve got you covered.
Can skateboards get wet? No! Skateboards should never get wet. Water can cause damage to the different parts of the board, such as the bearings, deck, and grip tape. It’s crucial to take measures to protect your skateboard from water damage and to practice proper maintenance for wet conditions.
What happens when skateboards get wet?
When skateboards get wet, several things can happen that may cause damage to the board. The deck may become waterlogged, causing it to lose its pop and possibly warp or delaminate over time. Additionally, the axles, axle nuts, cup washers, and kingpin nuts can rust over time.
When lubrication is depleted, bolts can rust, and the skateboard bearings may become weak over time. Water accumulation on the board can slow down or stop the movement of the skateboard’s wheels altogether. Improperly tightened bolts can also cause wetness to seep beneath the surface and rust the board.
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
What should you do if your skateboard gets wet?
Don’t panic! If you get your skateboard wet by accident, get your tools and begin disassembling it. You must exercise extreme caution because we do not want any injuries or broken parts here. Place the skateboard parts flat on the ground to dry them at room temperature. You can also use an absorbent towel to wipe them down to speed up the drying process.
If you skip the drying procedure, your board is at risk of rusting due to oxidation; after all, your equipment is still comprised of metal.
We do not recommend exposing skateboard parts to direct sunlight since some painted components may fade. After everything has dried sufficiently, you can begin reassembling your skateboard. Remember to reapply lubricant, such as WD40, after wiping and drying the bearings.
This disassembling-reassembling technique is useful not just when you have a wet skateboard but also when you suspect that anything is amiss with your board. You are always free to check for your own safety.
If you skip the drying procedure, your board is at risk of rusting due to oxidation; after all, your equipment is still comprised of metal. Don’t be afraid to devote time to board maintenance!
Tips to protect your skateboard from water damage
Here are some tips to protect your skateboard from water damage:
- Store your skateboard in a dry place to prevent exposure to moisture.
- Avoid skateboarding when roads are wet or during rainy weather to prevent water from damaging the board.
- If your skateboard gets wet, blot it dry as quickly as possible using a towel and let the parts dry at room temperature.
- Regularly maintain your bearings to prevent rust and water damage.
- Use wax, spray-on sealants, or waterproof grip tape to waterproof your skateboard.
- Sand down chips and splinters, clip grip tape that peels off, and replace parts when needed to keep your skateboard in good condition.
- Avoid throwing your skateboard around and exposing it to extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold.
- Use WD-40 or bearing lubricant to maintain your trucks, and wipe them down with a cloth after skating in wet conditions.
If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “How to save your bearings if your board gets wet” from the Arjun Shah YouTube channel.
Conclusion
Well, folks, we made it to the end of the ride. (Are you ready to take your skateboard for a spin?) I hope this post has shed some light on the question that’s been keeping you up at night: can skateboards get wet? (Did I make you paranoid about water exposure?) Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a newbie to the game, it’s essential to understand the potential risks of moisture and how to protect your board.
Let me know in the comments section below if I covered everything you wanted to know. (I read and reply to every comment.) And if you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for all things skateboarding! Thanks for hanging out with me today, and until next time, keep shredding!
Key takeaways
This article covered whether skateboards can get wet. Here are some key takeaways:
- Skateboards can’t get wet because exposing them to water can cause damage to different parts of the board, such as bearings, deck, and grip tape.
- Proper maintenance and waterproofing can help protect your skateboard from water damage.
- Skateboarding in wet conditions can be dangerous and requires extra caution and adjustments to riding style.
- Protect your skateboard from excessive moisture exposure by avoiding riding in heavy rain.
- Waterproofing methods include using wax, spray-on sealants, or waterproof grip tape.
- Proper maintenance for wet conditions includes cleaning and drying your board regularly and replacing any damaged parts promptly.
