Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Gloves Review: Worth the Upgrade from V1?

With countless options on the market, finding the perfect pair of motorcycle gloves can be an overwhelming task. This is where the Scorpion SGS Mark II aim to make your decision easier.

In this in-depth Scorpion SGS Mark II glove review, we’ll analyze whether these premium leather riding gloves provide the ultimate blend of protection, comfort, and value.

But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Are these the best gloves for all seasons? Let’s find out!

Our Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Verdict

A Trusted Name In Motorcycle Protection

Firstly, Scorpion is a reputable brand among bikers when it comes to protective gear. With a focus on building equipment that saves riders in real-world accidents, Scorpion has made a name as a trusted and dependable manufacturer.

The original SGS glove was massively popular due to its low price point and impressive safety features. However, consistency and availability issues meant supply struggled to meet demand.

Enter the new-and-improved SGS Mark II model – an upgrade offering enhanced protection, comfort, and quality without the headaches.

Redesigned From The Ground Up

Scorpion went back to the drawing board to create a glove that looked and felt better than the original SGS. Let’s look at the key changes:

The move to a new factory has improved production volumes and consistency across sizes. This gives a more accurate fit compared to the hit-and-miss sizing of the past generation.

Unparalleled Protection For All-Season Riding

Now, onto the safety features – the area in these biker gloves really excels.

The SGS Mark II incorporates a long list of advanced protective components:

• Goatskin Leather – Goat leather provides excellent abrasion resistance. The premium full-grain leather used is durable yet comfortable.
• Carbon Fiber Knuckles – Rigid carbon fiber knuckle armoring offers robust impact protection without compromising flexibility.
• TPU Finger Armor – Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) shields on the fingers safeguard against scrapes.
• Padded Pisiform – Extra foam padding around this vulnerable wrist bone significantly reduces injury risks.
• Knox Palm Sliders – Special Knox SPS sliders allow your palms to slide rather than grab the tarmac during an accident.
• Wrist Closure – A secure Velcro wrist strap keeps the glove firmly in place.

With the Mark II’s heavy-duty protective features, your hands will be shielded from harm whether riding on urban streets or attacking winding backroads.

Superior Grip With Digital Goat Overlays

But it’s not all about safety – the SGS Mark II also handles great on the bike.

The previous Kangaroo leather has made way for supple digital goat leather palm overlays. Although not quite as lightweight as Kangaroo, goat leather provides exceptional grip and abrasion resistance.

The embossed digital goat overlays on the palm deliver confident braking and clutch control – wet or dry. The material and texture strike an ideal balance between grip and durability.

Optimized Comfort And Ventilation

Scorpion redesigned the glove backing for better flexibility and freedom of movement. Specifically:

• Relocated Knox SPS sliders no longer obstruct palm contact patches.
• Fingers articulated for improved comfort.
• The knuckle section is made from flexible carbon fiber, not rigid TPU.
• Pre-curved palms and fingers reduce riding fatigue.

Ventilated perforated panels on the back of the hand allow air circulation to keep palms cool and dry once the temperatures rise.

For riders seeking versatile 3-season gloves with weather protection, Scorpion offers a matching SGS Mark II Long Gauntlet glove.

Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Sizing and Fit

The Scorpion EXO SGS MK II runs snugly compared to other US brands. They fit similarly to European brands like Alpinestars and REVIT, which are about half a size smaller than you might expect.

I’ve found that they fit more like a second skin than a loose covering. The goat leather construction molds to your hand shape over time, creating a custom fit.

Here’s my sizing advice:

• If you’re between sizes, go up to the larger size
• If you know your usual glove size, stick with it
• For those new to motorcycle gloves, measure your hand circumference and compare it to Scorpion’s size chart

The snug fit serves a purpose. It ensures the protective features stay in place during a slide. The carbon fiber knuckle protector and Knox SPS palm sliders work best when they’re right where they should be.

I’ve noticed the pre-curved fingers and palms contribute to the overall fit. They reduce fatigue during long rides by matching your hand’s natural grip position.

Scorpion Men’s Glove Sizing

SIZE	HAND CIRCUMFERENCE (IN)
XS	5
SM	6
MD	7
LG	8
XL	9
2XL	10
3XL	11

Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Break-in Period

The Scorpion EXO SGS MK II takes about a week of regular use to break in fully. During this period, the high-quality goat leather softens and molds to your hand shape, enhancing comfort and flexibility.

When I first put them on, they felt snug, almost tight. This is normal for premium leather. The snug fit ensures the protective features, like the carbon fiber knuckle protector and Knox SPS palm sliders, stay in place during a slide.

In my experience, the break-in process involves:

• Wearing them during short rides initially
• Gradually increasing the duration of use
• Flexing your hands and fingers to help the leather conform

The pre-curved fingers and palm design also aid in reducing the break-in time. They match the natural grip position of your hands, making them feel more comfortable from the start.

Historically, leather gloves like these require a break-in period to achieve their optimal fit. The process is similar to breaking in a new pair of leather boots. The leather stretches and adapts to your unique hand shape, providing a custom fit over time.

From my perspective, the break-in period is worth the initial snugness. Once broken in, they offer excellent dexterity and comfort, making them a reliable choice for both short commutes and long rides.

Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Ventilation and Breathability

The Scorpion EXO SGS MK II struggles with ventilation and breathability, especially in hot weather. I’ve found their performance in different weather conditions to be a mixed bag, with a clear weakness in high temperatures.

In cooler weather, these gloves excel. The goat leather construction provides excellent insulation, keeping my hands comfortable during chilly morning rides. However, this same quality becomes a drawback as the mercury rises.

During hot summer rides, I’ve experienced:

• Excessive hand sweating
• Uncomfortable moisture buildup
• Reduced grip due to slippery palms

There design includes perforated leather on the back of the hand[4], but in my experience, this feature doesn’t provide sufficient airflow.

I’ve noticed that the lack of ventilation can lead to a phenomenon I call “Sweaty Palm Syndrome”. This not only feels uncomfortable but can also affect your control of the bike.

Compared to high-airflow options like the Scorpion EXO Talon, the SGS MK II falls short in hot weather performance. I’ve found them more suitable for moderate temperatures, but they’re not ideal for very warm conditions.

The ventilation issue isn’t just about comfort. It can impact safety too. When your hands get sweaty, the palm leather tends to bunch up. This can be distracting and potentially dangerous during rides.

From a historical perspective, motorcycle glove design has evolved to balance protection with comfort. The SGS MK II leans heavily towards protection, which is commendable, but at the cost of breathability.

In my view, these gloves are best suited for cooler to moderate weather conditions. For hot summer rides, you might want to consider alternatives with better ventilation.

The trade-off here is clear: excellent protection and durability but limited breathability in high temperatures.

Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Touchscreen Compatibility

The Scorpion EXO SGS MK II is compatible with touchscreens. I’ve found that they allow for effective smartphone use without the need to remove them, which is a significant convenience for riders.

Here’s what I’ve experienced:

• The index finger is specifically designed to be touchscreen-compatible
• I can operate my smartphone, GPS, and even ATM touchscreens with ease
• The responsiveness is impressive – I don’t have to tap multiple times for the screen to register my touch

In my tests, I’ve used them with various devices:

• iPhone 14 Plus
• GPS navigation systems
• ATM touchscreens

Each time, thy performed admirably. The touchscreen compatibility worked on the first try every time. This level of reliability is crucial when you’re on the road and need quick access to your devices.

The technology behind touchscreen-compatible gloves has come a long way. Early versions often required multiple taps or were inconsistent. The Scorpion EXO SGS MK II represent a significant improvement in this area.

I’ve noticed that touchscreen compatibility doesn’t compromise the devices’ protective features. The index finger maintains its durability while offering this added functionality.

One thing to note: only the index finger is touchscreen compatible. While this might seem limiting, I’ve found it sufficient for most tasks. It’s a thoughtful design choice that balances functionality with the primary purpose of protection.

In my view, this feature adds substantial value to these gloves. It’s not just a gimmick – it’s a practical feature that enhances the overall riding experience.

Whether you need to check a map, answer a call, or send a quick text, you can do so without exposing your hands to the elements or potential hazards.

Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Models Comparison

The Scorpion EXO SGS MK II represent a significant upgrade from their predecessors. I’ve had the chance to use both the original SGS and the new MK II, and the improvements are noticeable.

Here’s what I found:

• Protection: The MK II features enhanced armor. The carbon fiber knuckle protector is a step up from the original’s TPU armor. This change offers superior impact resistance without adding bulk.
• Palm Protection: The MK II introduces Knox SPS® Palm Sliders[2]. These weren’t present in the original model. I find this addition crucial for reducing the risk of wrist injuries during a slide.
• Finger Protection: The MK II has hard TPU finger protectors. The original had less robust protection in this area. This upgrade provides better defense against impacts and abrasions.
• Touch Screen Compatibility: The MK II features a touch screen-ready compatible index finger. This wasn’t available in the original model. I can now use my smartphone without removing my gloves, which is a game-changer for convenience.
• Comfort: Both models use high-quality goat leather, but the MK II feels more supple out of the box. The pre-curved palm and fingers in the MK II reduce fatigue during long rides, an improvement over the original design.
• Ventilation: Unfortunately, both models struggle with airflow. The MK II has perforated leather on the back of the hand, but in my experience, it doesn’t significantly improve breathability over the original.
• Closure System: The MK II uses a hook-and-loop wrist strap closure. It’s more secure and easier to adjust than the original closure system.
• Durability: While it’s too early to make a definitive judgment, the MK II’s construction feels more robust. The external seams on the fingers should contribute to longer-lasting gloves.

In my view, the SGS MK II is a worthy successor to the original SGS. It maintains the strengths of its predecessor while addressing several key areas for improvement. The enhanced protection and added features make it a more versatile and safer option for riders.

Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Long-term Durability

The Scorpion EXO SGS MK II shows mixed results in long-term durability. Based on my experience and user reports, they can last anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on usage and care.

I’ve found that the durability varies significantly:

• Some users report excellent longevity, with others lasting 2+ years of daily commute riding
• Others have experienced premature wear, with seams fraying after just three months of daily use

The high-quality goat leather construction contributes to there’ potential for longevity. In my experience, the leather remains supple and resistant to wear even after multiple washes and extended use.

Key durability features

• Carbon fiber reinforced TPU knuckle protector maintains its integrity over time
• Knox SPS® Palm Sliders show minimal wear even after prolonged use
• Pre-curved palm and fingers help maintain there shape

Potential weak points

• Velcro wrist strap closure can start peeling after extended use
• Stitching quality varies, with some users reporting frayed seams

Washing and care play a crucial role in their lifespan. I’ve found that treating the leather regularly helps maintain its quality and extends its life.

Compared to other brands, the SGS MK II’s durability seems to fall in the middle range:

• They outperform budget brands like Bilt, which can fall apart in 5 months
• They don’t quite match the longevity of high-end brands like Held or some Icon models

In my view, the SGS MK II offers reasonable durability for its price point. While they may not be the most long-lasting gloves on the market, they can serve you well for a considerable period with proper care.

The variation in user experiences suggests that quality control might be an issue, so it’s worth inspecting them carefully upon purchase.

Scorpion EXO SGS MK II Care

Proper care of the Scorpion EXO SGS MK II extends their lifespan. I’ve found that regular maintenance keeps them in top condition for years.

Here’s my care routine:

Cleaning:

• I wipe them with a damp cloth after each ride to remove dirt and sweat
• For deeper cleaning, I use a leather-specific cleaner
• I avoid soaking them or using harsh detergents

Drying:

• I air-dry them at room temperature
• I never use direct heat sources like radiators or hairdryers

Conditioning:

• Once a month, I apply a leather conditioner to keep the goat leather supple
• I pay extra attention to high-wear areas like the palms and fingertips

Storage:

• I store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• I use glove shapers to maintain their shape when not in use

Armor Care:

• I check the carbon fiber knuckle protector and Knox SPS® Palm Sliders regularly for damage
• If I notice any loose stitching, I repair it immediately to prevent further damage

Odor Control:

• I use a leather-safe deodorizer spray occasionally to keep them fresh
• Letting them air out after each ride helps prevent odor buildup

Touch Screen Compatibility:

• I clean the touchscreen-compatible index finger regularly to maintain its functionality

I’ve noticed that following these steps has kept my gloves in excellent condition. The leather remains soft and responsive, the protective features stay intact, and the overall lifespan has increased.

Remember, they are an investment in your safety. Proper care doesn’t just extend their life – it ensures they’ll perform when you need them most.

The Bottom Line

The Scorpion SGS Mark II builds upon the winning formula of the original while eliminating previous drawbacks.

Upgraded features like flexible carbon fiber knuckles, Knox SPS sliders, digital goat overlays, and improved quality control take them to the next level.

If you ride a motorcycle, chances are you’ve stumbled across Scorpion’s SGS gloves. With the Mark II, Scorpion delivers their most protective and comfortable SGS glove without hiking up the price.

Ultimately, I rate the Scorpion SGS Mark II glove a top choice for riders seeking versatile protection across a wide range of motorcycling disciplines.

Scorpion SGS original vs. SGS Mark II Gloves

The Mark II iteration builds on the popular original SGS glove with important upgrades:

• Enhanced carbon fiber knuckles
• New palm material and grip texture
• Better ventilation
• Relocated Knox sliders
• Improved quality and sizing consistency
• Added touchscreen fingertip

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Scorpion SGS Mark II last?

With premium leather construction and reinforced stitching, you can expect at least 2-3 years of hard riding from these durable gloves. Take care of high-wear areas and carry out basic maintenance for maximum lifespan.

Do the SGS Mark II have touchscreen compatibility?

Yes, the index fingertip and thumb are touchscreen compatible, allowing easy use of smartphones and GPS devices.

What size should I order?

Use a fabric measuring tape to determine your palm width, then refer to the size chart on Revzilla. I found the sizing accurate, so order your typical glove size.

And Finally…

The Scorpion SGS Mark II combines next-level protection with improved comfort and quality. While the outgoing SGS glove had its quirks, the Mark II irons out the kinks to become my new go-to recommendation for three-season riding protection.

Let me know your thoughts on the SGS Mark II in the comments section below. And as always, ride safe out there!

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