Can you skate in the rain?


Short answer

Yes, you can skate in the rain, but it requires the right setup. Use old skates, good wheels, and expect more maintenance on your bearings.

How to skate without ruining your gear

Skating in the rain can be a fun experience, but if you're not careful, it can also ruin your skates. Bearings are the main concern, as they can rust quickly. However, with the right setup and a few precautions, you can keep skating even when the weather is bad.


What happens when you skate in the rain?

Water washes away the lubrication in your bearings, leaving them dry and prone to rust. You’ll notice this when your bearings start making a hissing sound and spinning less smoothly. Wet conditions also make the ground more slippery, reducing grip but also making some braking techniques easier.


How to protect your skates

  • Use an old setup: Don’t ruin your best skates in the rain. Have a dedicated rain setup with older wheels and bearings.
  • Choose the right wheels: High-quality urethane wheels like Rollerblade Hydrogen or Undercover wheels perform better in wet conditions than lower-quality rain wheels.
  • Maintain your bearings: Clean and lubricate your bearings regularly if you use them in the rain. Alternatively, use cheap bearings and replace them when they get too worn.
  • Adjust your stride: Keep your strides short and under your body to prevent slipping.
  • Avoid slippery surfaces: Watch out for leaves, metal covers, and zebra crossings, as these become extremely slick when wet.

Braking techniques for wet conditions

Since regular braking techniques are less effective in the rain, use alternative methods:

  • Parallel slides: Easier to learn in the rain due to the lower friction.
  • T-stops: Less effective but still usable on wet ground.
  • Power slides: A great way to practice controlled slides without too much friction.

Is skating in the rain worth it?

Absolutely! If you set up your skates correctly and understand the risks, skating in the rain can be a great experience. It helps improve balance, braking skills, and overall control while giving you the freedom to skate no matter the weather.

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