With countless options on the market ranging widely in price and features, it can be tricky to identify the best bang for your buck.
In this Scorpion EXO Skrub gloves review, we’ll take a closer look at how these gloves perform in real-world riding conditions and assess their overall value.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best motorcycle gloves with armor for you? Let’s find out!
Scorpion Exo Skrub Gloves
Our Scorpion Exo Skrub Verdict
Breaking Down the Scorpion XO Scrub Gloves
The Scorpion scrub feature a synthetic leather palm with a flexible nylon back panel. According to the manufacturer, they offer low to moderate protection levels in order to maximize comfort and breathability. Here are some of the key features and technologies used in their construction:
- Synthetic suede leather palm
- Double layering in abrasion zones
- Foam padding for impact protection
- Stretchy spandex between fingers
- Thermoplastic rubber armor across knuckles
- Velcro wrist closure
In terms of sizing, Scorpion tends to run true to the size chart. The scrub glove is available in small sizes up to 3XL, including a nice selection of women’s sizes.
For an accurate fit, you’ll want to measure the circumference of your hand and refer to the size breakdowns listed on the manufacturer’s website.
Comparison to Similar Products
| Model Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Alpinestars Copper Short | Copper-colored Clarino leather palm; foam padding; rubber knuckle guard; breathable mesh back; good for urban commuting. |
| Icon 29er | C-rated protection; synthetic leather and textile; breathable mesh; foam padding on knuckles; comfortable for all riding styles. |
| Alpinestars SP-8 V3 | MotoGP technology; excellent durability; protective leather; ventilation; great for performance riding. |
| Dainese Carbon 4 | Drum-dyed goatskin leather; carbon fiber knuckles; pre-curved fingers; impact-absorbing inserts; excellent ventilation. |
The Alpinestars Copper Short gloves offer a good balance of protection and comfort for urban commuting at an affordable price.
The Icon 29er provides certified protection at an even lower cost, making it a great value option for various riding styles.
For more serious performance riding, the Alpinestars SP-8 V3 incorporates MotoGP technology and high-quality protective leather. They are the most expensive but also the most track-focused.
The Dainese Carbon 4 sits in between, using premium goatskin leather and carbon fiber protection in a pre-curved design for excellent comfort and ventilation. They are suitable for both street and track use.
Who Are the Scorpion Scrub For?
Based on the materials and design, I would categorize the Scorpion scrub as an affordable pair of low-profile street riding gloves.
They prioritize flexibility and comfort over maximum protection. The synthetic leather palm provides decent abrasion resistance without sacrificing feel, while the foam and TPR armor offer some impact dissipation in key areas.
Here are the types of riders I think would appreciate the scrub gloves:
- Beginner and intermediate riders
- Riders in warmer climates
- Anyone seeking ventilation over insulation
- Riders on a budget
- Those valuing high dexterity and feel
With a sub-$50 price point, they deliver good value for casual around-town jaunts. I probably wouldn’t choose them for hardcore adventure or off-road riding, which demands more robust protection. But they strike a nice balance for the street.
Sizing Chart and Fit Tips
To ensure you get the best fit with the Scorpion EXO Skrub, follow these sizing tips:
How to Measure Your Hand
- Wrap a flexible tape measure around the widest part of your dominant hand’s palm, excluding the thumb.
- Measure from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your palm.
- Use the larger of these two measurements to determine your glove size.
Scorpion EXO Skrub Glove Sizing Chart
| Men’s Sizes | Hand Circumference (inches) |
|---|---|
| SM | 6″ |
| MD | 7″ |
| LG | 8″ |
| XL | 9″ |
| 2XL | 10″ |
| 3XL | 11″ |
For women’s sizes, the Scorpion EXO glove sizing is:
| Women’s Sizes | Hand Circumference (inches) |
|---|---|
| XS | 4″ |
| SM | 5″ |
| MD | 6″ |
| LG | 7″ |
The Scorpion EXO Skrub tends to run true to size based on Scorpion’s sizing charts. If you’re between sizes, I recommend rounding down as they will stretch slightly with use, especially since they use synthetic Nash leather.
One potential drawback I found mentioned on forums is that the Velcro wrist strap may start peeling after extended use.
However, many riders report their Scorpion holding up well over multiple riding seasons with only minor wear.
By carefully measuring your hand and referring to Scorpion’s size chart, you can dial in the perfect fit for the EXO Skrub.
The right size will provide a snug fit for optimal control and protection while avoiding tightness that could cause discomfort.
Armor and Impact Protection
The Scorpion EXO Skrub provides solid protection for an entry-level glove:
Knuckle Armor
- TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) molded protectors cover the knuckles
- Offers good impact resistance in a crash
Finger Protection
- TPR protective elements extend down the fingers for additional coverage
- Helps shield your digits from impacts and abrasion
Palm Padding
- Extra padding panels reinforce high-wear areas of the palm
- Improves durability and absorbs shock during a slide
Thumb Guard
- The thumb is wrapped with abrasion-resistant Nash synthetic leather
- Protects this critical area from painful snags and tearing
One potential drawback I noticed mentioned on forums is that since these are entry-level gloves, they may not hold up to heavy road rash in a serious crash. The armor is adequate for typical riding, but track riders will want something more substantial.
The Scorpion Skrub gloves deliver reliable protection in a sleek, lightweight package by strategically placing TPR armor and padding on key impact zones.
You can ride confidently, knowing your hands are shielded while enjoying great comfort and tactile feel on the controls.
Weatherproofing and Insulation
The Scorpion EXO Skrub provide minimal protection against the elements, as they’re designed more for warm weather riding:
Water Resistance
- They aren’t waterproof or water-resistant
- Nash synthetic leather and nylon construction will soak through quickly in the rain
- Best suited for dry conditions only
Wind Protection
- Nylon back panels block some wind but aren’t windproof
- Perforations and thin material allow significant airflow
- Hands may get chilly on cold rides at higher speeds
Insulation
- No thermal lining or insulation is included
- Lightweight construction prioritizes breathability over warmth
- Not suitable for cold weather use
I did find some complaints on forums about the lack of weatherproofing. Several riders mentioned their hands getting wet and cold in unexpected rain showers. The consensus is that these are definitely fair-weather gloves only.
By using moisture-permeable materials and omitting any insulation, the Scorpion Skrub are able to remain lightweight and ventilated. This maximizes comfort in hot conditions but leaves your hands exposed to wind, rain, and cold.
If you need a glove that can handle adverse weather, you’ll want to look at options with a waterproof membrane, windproof shell, and some light insulation, like the Scorpion EXO Tempest.
But if you just need basic protection for summer riding, the Skrub gloves deliver airflow and dexterity at a budget-friendly price.
Touchscreen Compatibility
The Scorpion EXO Skrub offer decent touchscreen functionality on modern devices:
Conductive Fingertips
- The thumb and index finger have conductive Nash synthetic leather overlays
- Allows you to operate your phone or GPS without removing your gloves
Responsiveness
- The conductive material responds well to taps and swipes
- I found it worked reliably on my iPhone and motorcycle navigation system
- No need to press extra hard or repeat touches
Precision
- The slim fingertips allow for reasonable accuracy when typing or selecting small icons
- Not as precise as bare fingers, but good enough for basic use on the go
One minor drawback I noticed mentioned by some riders online is that the conductive material can wear out over time with heavy use. However, I haven’t had mine long enough to experience any degradation yet.
While touchscreen compatibility is never going to be the main priority on a motorcycle glove, it’s still a very convenient feature to have. Being able to quickly check directions or answer a call without fumbling to get them off is a real plus.
They strike a good balance, providing usable, conductive fingertips without compromising protection or comfort. You won’t be typing out long text messages, but for the essentials, they get the job done.
Long-Term Durability
The Scorpion EXO Skrub show mixed results when it comes to long-term durability based on user experiences:
Common Wear and Tear
- The synthetic Nash leather palm is prone to developing abrasions and holes with regular use
- Some riders report the palm material wearing through completely within a few months of daily commuting
- The stitching, especially in high-stress areas like the fingers, can start to separate over time.
Crash Performance
- As an entry-level glove, the Skrub is not designed to withstand serious crashes
- The glove may rip or shred if subjected to heavy abrasion but should still protect your hands in a slide
- The TPR knuckle and finger armor stays solidly in place
Care and Maintenance
- Proper cleaning and storage can help extend their life
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme heat, which can degrade the materials
- Regularly inspect them for signs of wear and replace them promptly if the integrity is compromised
I did find some concerning reports on motorcycle forums about the Skrub gloves developing holes in the palms and fingers within a few months of daily use. This seems to be hit or miss, as other riders have gotten multiple seasons out of theirs with only minor wear.
Realistically, you can’t expect top-tier longevity from an entry-level glove like this. The Skrub is meant to be an affordable, lightweight option for casual riding, not a long-distance workhorse or track day specialist.
If you prioritize durability above all else, you’ll want to step up to a higher-end glove with more robust materials and construction.
But if you’re looking for basic protection on shorter rides and are okay replacing your gloves every year or two, the Skrub delivers solid value.
FAQ
Q: What is the long-term durability?
A: The durability of the Scorpion EXO Skrub gloves is decent for an entry-level option, but some users have reported premature wear in high-stress areas like the palms and stitching. With proper care, they should last a season or two of regular use.
Q: Are they touchscreen-compatible?
A: Yes, the Scorpion EXO Skrub gloves feature conductive material on the thumb and index fingertips, allowing you to operate touchscreen devices without removing your gloves.
Q: How well do they protect your hands in a crash?
A: The Scorpion EXO Skrub gloves offer basic protection for casual riding, with TPR knuckle armor and reinforced palms. However, they may not hold up in a serious crash, and higher-end gloves with more robust protection are needed.
Q: Are they suitable for cold weather riding?
A: No, the Scorpion EXO Skrub gloves are designed for warm weather use and do not have any insulation or weatherproofing. They are best suited for mild to hot conditions.
Q: How is the sizing and fit?
A: The Scorpion EXO Skrub gloves tend to run true to size based on Scorpion’s sizing chart. They have a snug, comfortable fit that allows good dexterity and control feel.
And Finally…Who Are They For?
At the end of the day, the humble Scorpion scrub punches above their $24 price point. While they lack the protective features or weather resistance for hardcore riding, they deliver an impressive blend of value, comfort, dexterity, and style for casual street use. Their flexibility right off the shelf also prevents a frustrating break-in period.
Based on the materials and execution, I’d recommend the scrub gloves for beginning and intermediate riders in warmer climates. They provide decent abrasion protection for around-town jaunts without spending big bucks.
I hope this detailed breakdown gives you a clearer sense of who can benefit from these gloves. As always, I’m happy to offer more personalized recommendations if you tell me more about your riding style and priorities!
Let me know if you have any other thoughts or questions on the Scorpion scrub gloves, riding gear, or motorcycling in general. I look forward to continuing the conversation below! Ride safely out there, everyone.
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Sources: Motorcycle Gloves Market: (1)