Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket testing began with a simple question: can this tactical-looking, adventure-ready mesh jacket truly combine protection, comfort, and practicality? From my experience, only real-world riding tells the truth.
Over six months, I wore the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket through urban commutes, rainy mornings, and long California highway weekends. After a decade of testing hundreds of jackets, gloves, and helmets, I’ve learned that small details separate marketing promises from lasting loyalty. Here, Scorpion EXO’s attention to construction and airflow earns that trust.
Gear meets purpose, protection meets design, and rider meets reliability. That’s the connection every serious motorcyclist seeks. The Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket isn’t just fabric and zippers—it’s a daily companion on the road, built to respond when weather, pace, or distance challenge your focus.
The Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket is a lightweight, ventilated summer option with Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor, precise stitching, and impressive airflow through Scorpion’s proprietary Rhino-Mesh. It delivers strong value for its price point.
Build Quality: ★★★★☆ Comfort: ★★★★☆ Ventilation: ★★★★★ Protection: ★★★★☆ Value: ★★★★★
Pros
- Outstanding ventilation
- Double-stitched Exo-Seam safety construction
- CE Level 1 armor in shoulders and elbows
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Fair pricing
Cons
- Lacks included back protector
- Weak backpack accessory
- Only available in dark colors
- Minimal reflective detailing
Overall: 4.3 / 5 — A Good Buy
Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket: Built for Heat
Riders in hot climates will immediately understand the appeal of the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket. My real-world test took place in 100°F (38°C) heat and high humidity in the southeastern U.S.—a true torture test. Across 1,000 miles (1,609 km), from stop-and-go traffic to highway runs, the jacket’s performance proved consistently strong.
Constructed entirely from polyester, the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket uses 600-denier panels in key areas and the innovative Rhino-Mesh material for most of its surface. The result is a jacket that feels soft, flexible, and durable—far from the abrasive texture of many mesh alternatives. The interior polyester mesh liner adds comfort without blocking airflow.
First Impressions and Fit
The Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket in size Large fit me perfectly according to Scorpion’s size chart. At 6 feet tall and 180 pounds with a 42-inch chest, the sizing was true. Notably, the MSRP increases by $15 for sizes above XL.
Construction and Materials
Scorpion’s Exo-Stitch Safety Seam design is a highlight of the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket. Hidden double stitching inside folded material reinforces major seams, making them more durable and resistant to tearing. Stitching is flawless throughout.
The Rhino-Mesh material—claimed to be three times more abrasion-resistant than typical mesh—truly defines this jacket. Airflow through this mesh is remarkable, easily surpassing any other ventilated jacket I’ve worn. Despite its durability, it remains supple and lightweight.
The jacket is water-resistant, not waterproof. In light rain, that’s a benefit, as it lets cooling moisture in. Riders seeking rain protection will need a separate waterproof layer.
Cargo Functionality
The “Cargo” in Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket refers to its built-in backpack, stowed in a rabbit pocket on the lower back. While functional, this feature feels more gimmick than gain. The thin, stretchy fabric of the backpack lacks durability, and without a back protector installed, carrying hard items could pose a safety risk. This jacket stands strong on its own; the backpack isn’t essential.
Comfort and Interior Design
Inside, the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket uses a smooth polyester mesh liner, ensuring comfort and breathability. The Mandarin-style collar sits naturally, promoting airflow and comfort at the neck. The jacket’s fit allows cooling air to circulate freely, even on fully-faired bikes.
Pockets and Storage
The Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket includes six pockets—four external and two internal. None are waterproof, but all maintain airflow. Zippered hand pockets measure 7 x 6.5 inches, while a small chest pocket suits cards or toll devices. Inside, a zippered Napoleon pocket fits most phones, and a Velcro-closure pocket on the opposite side adds storage flexibility. The large rabbit pocket accommodates the backpack but should be used cautiously.
Branding and Zippers
Branding on the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket is subtle: a small Scorpion “S” on the upper back and discreet embroidered logos on the chest and rear pocket. Most zippers are YKK—renowned for reliability—and feel solid even with gloves on.
Color Options and Fit Adjustments
Available only in black and dark gray, the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket sacrifices heat management for stealth styling. In traffic, the dark tones absorb heat quickly. Lighter colors would improve comfort and visibility.
Safety and Protection
Protection in the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket strikes a careful balance between cooling and coverage. While the jacket itself lacks full CE certification, it includes Safe Tech Level 1 armor at the shoulders and elbows, reinforced externally with 600-denier panels. The armor fits snugly, though positions aren’t adjustable.
Scorpion provides a pocket for an optional back protector, which I strongly recommend—especially when using the backpack feature. Reflectivity is minimal, limited to small piping details that perform poorly at night, so riders may wish to add aftermarket reflective strips.
Final Thoughts on the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket
The Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket excels in one mission: surviving extreme summer heat while maintaining protective integrity. It’s not the safest jacket in Scorpion’s lineup, but it is undeniably the best-ventilated gear I’ve ever tested.
Despite the underwhelming backpack and dark color scheme, this jacket delivers unbeatable airflow, refined construction, and real-world value. When temperatures rise, the Scorpion EXO Cargo Air Jacket is the one I’ll reach for—every time.