As global demand for clean energy continues to rise, the wind energy industry has become a critical sector in renewable energy development. The expected operational lifespan of a wind turbine is typically 20–25 years, which places high demands on its quality and reliability. Wind turbine manufacturers face significant challenges in balancing cost and safe operation, particularly in the selection of blade materials. For example, the cost of leading-edge protection (LEP) varies depending on the material, as different materials offer varying levels of resistance to raindrop impacts (Rain erosion). As the rotor diameter of the turbine increases, the blade tip speed also increases, making it more susceptible to rain erosion. Most current studies on LEP rain erosion characteristics focus primarily on small-scale analyses. A comprehensive analysis of global rain erosion provides strategic guidance, optimizing LEP material selection and helping manufacturers reduce costs while enhancing global competitiveness, reliability, and production efficiency. The leading-edge rain erosion duration map shows regional characteristics. The time is larger than two hours in Southeast China, Central Vietnam, Central India, Northwestern Europe (Western Ireland, the UK, Denmark, and the Netherlands), as well as parts of South America, such as Eastern Uruguay, Buenos Aires in Argentina, and Southern Chile. An investigation of LEP from 11 operating turbines revealed that the total duration for all median and major erosion on the surface of the blade’s LEP exceeded 2 h. The study provides valuable insights for selecting appropriate LEP materials based on local rain erosion characteristics, optimizing blade design, extending blade lifespan, and reducing maintenance costs.