The Scorpion Commander jacket is the mid-level offering from Scorpion’s Extreme Distance Rider (XDR) line, but I chose it for a recent trip because I believe it offers the most features and versatility, and therefore value. With multiple size options (SM-3XL) there’s something for everyone and my size large fit excellently, with and without the liners. I also opted for the Neon color and it was apparent that other motorists paid more attention to me while riding. My riding companions also appreciated the jacket as we lost touch through the twisties or were separated by stop lights during city navigation. This makes me feel even safer than the removable CE armor which is located in high-impact zones.

Dual forearm vents and dual chest vents with waterproof zippers, and a single, large rear shoulder vent flow air, but not a whole lot. Part of the problem is that even when unzipped, the vents don’t really stay open, so they don’t pass as much air as they could. Obviously, with waterproofing and two full liner inserts, this is definitely designed as a cold-mild temperature jacket. A waterproof liner with thumb gaiter zips in first, and a thermal liner slips inside of that for additional warmth, so I’m planning on extending my riding season in comfort. I used it anyway without the extra layers for a warm three-day adventure ride through the Mt. Shasta, CA area. I wore it at the tail end of the summer months at around 80 degrees, and it was the upper limit of what is comfortable. Heading off-road where the speeds were lower made the venting issues more noticeable, but as long as I kept moving it was tolerable. The Scorpion will be excellent during the other seasons.

The Commander looks to be even better in the wet with individual pocket liners, plus a removable storm collar. The standard fleece-lined collar is comfortable and protective, so the additional storm flap adds up to significant coverage. One thing I did notice was that the pocket liners tend to pull out when reaching inside to remove objects, particularly when wearing gloves. Just a few stitches along the bottom to hold them down would eliminate this issue. I mostly noticed it in the large cargo pockets on the front belly area.

Six pockets up front and two in the rear, plus two interior stashes give plenty of room to store items. The rear shoulder vent actually doubles as a large pouch as well. It’s designed to house a water bladder and has an access point and hose clamp to keep everything in place. Compression straps on the arms work well to cinch down when the liners are removed, but expanding them makes just enough room to fit comfortably, and snugly inside all three layers. The four-point torso adjustments located on each side have the Velcro located in the wrong position, making for very little actual adjustment. Scorpion has added a small split in the jacket to tuck away excess strap length, but in reality you can’t pull it down far enough to even need it. I had no desire to tighten the sides anyway since the jacket doesn’t billow or flap, but if I needed, a few inches of self-adhesive Velcro from any craft or department store would probably do the trick.

In a nutshell, the Commander jacket brings more to the table than even the more expensive XDR. The comfort is high with a slightly longer cut, protection is adequate and visibility is great with reflective accents (which are a big help if you opt for grey or black instead of neon). Even though I found several things to nitpick, the ineffective side straps, low venting and stubborn pocket liners were actually small issues. It already fits well enough and it really should be worn in wetter, cooler temperatures anyway. If you live in warm, temperate climates year-round, this isn’t for you. But, that isn’t most of us, and the Commander jacket is versatile enough to meet riding needs for many situations. Especially now that the weather is starting to turn, this has become my go-to outerwear. It gives me everything I want against Oregon’s unpredictable weather, plus safety enhancing rugged looks.

MSRP: $340-365
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