Are Segways & Ninebots Waterproof? (4 Facts To Know)

In 2015 Segway Inc. was purchased by Ninebot Limited – a company that would further the legacy Segway began.

Since then, they have expanded the research and development of scooters, hoverboard-like products, and the classic Segway style.

Customers look for high-end technology in their transportation these days, and sometimes that means getting those products a little wet or muddy.

Are Segways and Ninebots Waterproof?

There are many different models of Segways and Ninebots on the market, but almost all of them are not meant to be used in a downpour or in heavy snowfall. Splashing, light rain, and puddles should be no problem – if they aren’t too deep. None of these products should be submerged in water.

If you’re rushing along in New York City or down the streets of Atlanta, you may run into a little rainstorm or puddle from time to time. In New York’s case, what about snow?

We hope you aren’t using your Ninebot or Segway in the snow, but if you are, please be careful and check out this article for more information!

“Waterproof” and How Ratings Work

What does “waterproof” mean, and how does it work with technological products?

Well, the waterproof ratings for Ninebot and Segway are generally listed as “IP54”.

IP is “Ingress Protection,” or the unwanted introduction of water, foreign bodies, contaminants, etc.

The first number in that rating means “dust protection” (or the introduction of solid materials) and is rated at 5 – an average rating that means that dust can enter but probably won’t cause too much damage in a short amount of time.

The final number of 4 is your “waterproof rating.” This is less than average and means that it can take a few splashes, but not much more.

An actual “waterproof” product will have a rating of 7-9 in that numerical category and are more likely to withstand the elements – if that’s what you’re looking for.

Can you Leave your Segway or Ninebot Outside in the Rain?

Leaving your Ninebot or Segway ES2/Es4 out in the rain is not a good idea.

The great rule of thumb for these products is that a splash or light rain should be alright when you’re moving, but to leave them outside or submerge them completely in water will definitely damage the product – possibly even beyond repair.

You should always try to store your Ninebot or Segway somewhere inside, in your car, or somewhere dry. If you need to leave it in a damp garage or cold climate, make sure it is somewhere up high and won’t be sitting in a puddle of water.

Damp is fine. Drenched is not.

Can you Drive Segways and Ninebots in Rainy Weather?

Driving your Segway or Ninebot product in rainy weather is totally fine – with a few exceptions.

A light rain that you yourself don’t mind being out in should be alright. These products are meant to withstand splashes or raindrops from all angles.

However, rain can quickly become worse than a light drizzle. Extreme rain, thunderstorms, and downpours are not good for your product. Instead, consider hailing a taxi, uber, or riding your bike.

Furthermore, if the rain feels like it is too much for you, then it is going to be too much for your Segway or Ninebot.

How Well do the Batteries Withstand Water?

Have you ever dropped your smartphone in a body of water?

Even with “waterproof” phones out on the market today, drowning any technological device in water for too long will ruin the circuits, chips, or batteries that are within that product.

While there are a lot of companies that want users to feel comfortable using their technology in wet conditions, users should always be careful and wary about getting any sort of technology wet.

In the case of the Ninebot or Segway products, their batteries are alright with a little splash, but riding it through one to two feet of water is incredibly dangerous for the product.

If you find that you have accidentally run yourself through a deep puddle, don’t fret! In most models, you can remove the batteries – and sometimes other parts of the product – and let them dry out, giving them a chance to recover.

If you have a model where the batteries are NOT removable, try laying your product out and giving it time to dry.

Note: Saltwater is a huge NO when it comes to getting your product wet. Salt will make its way into bolts, screws, and crevices, crystalizing, and ruining technology – so keep away from saltwater!

Segway MiniPLUS

I want to mention this model in particular for this article for two reasons.

One, it resembles a hoverboard, but with an upside-down “T” structure to it, giving it a little more structure for riders who need to use it.

However, that also means it is small and very difficult to navigate through water.

Two, this product is highly recommended that no water touches it AT ALL.

While many models have a splash resistance, this product is incapable of protecting itself from an influx of water.

When cleaning this product, use a damp cloth, but no more moisture than that.

What About the Older Models Compared to the Latest Models?

Segway Inc. was originally founded in 1999 to research ways to create hands-free, self-balancing technology.

Their first model, the Segway PT, was released to customers in 2002.

This model is actually sealed and can keep out water, and therefore has been found to have a higher waterproof rating than the Segway MiniPLUS or Ninebot Scooters.

It is much larger and clunkier than the sleeker, newer models, but it is tried and true to its original design and purpose.

However, like your average bicycle, it is recommended that slippery or icy terrain be avoided to prevent slipping or harming riders or users.

Helpful Tips for Keeping Water Out

Since most Ninebot or Segway products are NOT meant to get wet, we’ve looked into a few ideas that will help you keep your products dry, warm, and healthy!

Dry Storage

Storing your technology in a dry space is always a great way to go.

Whether that is your indoor closet, an outdoor garage, or even inside your car, keeping any technology or personal vehicles stored and safe from the weather is your best bet.

If the weather outside is particularly nasty that day, consider walking, getting a ride with a friend, or taking a bike instead!

The best part about Segway and Ninebots is that they are almost always collapsible and easy to store away. If you don’t have a garage or closet, tucking it away in the corner is always a good alternative!

Waterproof Fabrics and Storage Bags

Many people are great at sewing and DIY crafting and have spent many years coming up with great solutions to everyday problems!

There are many fabrics that are waterproof that people fashion into mattress or pillow protectors, lunch bags, tote bags, table cloths, and more!

The best part is, these fabrics are cheap and easy to get access to – why, your own raincoat is made from these same fabrics, is lightweight, portable, and great for keeping out the rain or snow.

Fabrics like nylon, polyester, vinyl, pleather, plastic, microfibers, and laminated cotton are only a few that have been repurposed by DIY professionals and hobbyists to create waterproof materials for their homes.

There are plenty of designs and ideas online to make these materials fit your collapsable Segway or Ninebot – and they are much cheaper than buying a bag online!

You can even repurpose your own old raincoats or couch covers to create a much-needed alternative to running around in the rain with your scooter tucked under your arm.

Strategic Placement and Storage

If you ride your Segway or Ninebot to work, class, or on a daily schedule, you might consider strategically finding a place for it to call “home” when you’re not tending to it.

You should never leave your scooter locked outside against a bike rack. It’s easy to steal and easy to get wet or to freeze in the cold.

Instead, private lockers or storage units are great for businesses or schools to help their students or employees hide things away safely.

If you have a job that allows lockers, great! If not, consider speaking to your boss, manager, or the owner about somewhere to safely and properly store your scooter.

Final Thoughts

As we stated before, the general rule of thumb is “no” don’t leave your Segway or Ninebot out in the rain.

They can’t handle the weather and shouldn’t have to!

Consider alternative storage options and remember that your technology is very precious, and should be cared for in any way possible.

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