I've had mine outside for several months and so far the black hasn't faded. Mats like this tend to hold moisture, so you may have to put it out in the sun to dry after a rain. But this isn't an issue limited to this design - its the material and you will have this issue with any mat like this. When you pick it up, be sure to grab from two sides. If you pick it up with one hand, the mat will bend and the backing will crack.