Do I Need A Fully Weatherproof Padlock?

A fully weatherproof padlock (often called a marine padlock) is made from non-corrosive materials such as stainless steel throughout the body, shackle, and internal mechanism. These are designed for harsh environments where salt, moisture and long periods of non-use can cause standard padlocks to seize.
However, not every outdoor situation requires a fully weatherproof padlock.

Why Internal Components Matter Most

The first part of a padlock to fail in bad weather is usually the mechanism inside the lock, not the shackle.
This mechanism uses small pins and springs that can corrode if made from ordinary steel.
However, many high-quality standard padlocks (such as those from ABUS) already use non-corrosive internal parts, even when the shackle is hardened steel. This means:

• They can be used outdoors

• They resist seizing

• They do not need to be fully marine grade

So, for day-to-day outdoor use, a standard padlock with a hardened steel shackle is often the better choice.

The Security vs Weatherproof Trade-Off

The key difference between standard and marine padlocks is the shackle material:

• Hardened steel shackles are stronger and more resistant to cutting

• Stainless steel shackles resist corrosion but are softer, making them easier to cut

So choosing a fully weatherproof padlock can reduce security if the lock is likely to be attacked with tools.

Choosing The Right Padlock For Outdoor Use

For general outdoor use (gates, sheds, garages, storage units):

• A standard brass padlock with a hardened steel shackle is usually the best balance

• The shackle may discolour over time, but the lock will remain strong

For marine, coastal, or long-term unattended use (boats, harbours, coastal fences, offshore equipment):

• Choose a fully marine grade padlock with stainless hardware

Exceptions: High-Security Marine-Resistant Padlocks

Some premium padlocks combine both strength and weather resistance.
For example, the ABUS Granit series uses hardened steel with a cataphoretic coating that protects against corrosion. Testing has shown these padlocks to function reliably in extreme environments for decades.
These are ideal when:

• The location is exposed to weather

• Security risk is high

• The lock may remain unused for long periods

Summary Guide

• General outdoor use: Standard padlock with hardened shackle

• Coastal or long-term unattended: Full marine grade padlock

• High-security in harsh conditions: ABUS Granit coated hardened steel models