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Simply put, we're impressed with both the EXO-400 and the EXO-700 Scorpion models. The interesting part is, we really didn't expect much. Granted, we had read a few reviews prior to jumping on board, but for 6 months we didn't even give them a chance. After the 10th customer asked, "Where are your Scorpion helmets?” we decided to at least give them a look.
After the helmet arrived, we tore it apart, trying to find something that would scream, "See, it's what you had thought." From the minute we opened the box, we knew we were in for a pleasant surprise.
The helmet was enclosed in a very nice helmet sack. Unless you see thousands of helmets, you might not have the same impression. However, we have other helmets on our floor that don't come with anything but a foam bag. This is a very nice touch, and is a great way to make your customers have a good first impression.
The overall helmet finish was outstanding. Looking at the helmet in your hand, you would swear it was a helmet costing over $300.00. Is it a top of the line Shoei X-Eleven, or AGV TiTech? Not quite, but would we say it stacks up to the Shoei RF-1000 or Shoei TZ-R, costing upwards of $350, you bet. The paint is outstanding and overall finish is nothing short of impressive. We were hard pressed to find a single flaw.
The fully removable liner was also very nice and feels great next to your skin. The KwikWick material does an outstanding job of keeping your sweat away from your skin and keeping you cool when the heat rises. The liner removes from the helmet easily with a few secure snaps, and are available in a variety of colors and patterns for a customized appearance. Personally, we could care less what color our liner is, but we like that Scorpion offers their customers options. Options are always good, even if you never use them.
Another pleasant surprise was the visor. Both of the Scorpion models come with a clear anti-fog visor. Some companies don't even offer this feature, and those that do, charge over $40. They also offer all of their visor colors in anti-fog versions as well as standard non-treated versions. Our hats go off to Scorpion for including this feature standard. At the release of these EXO models in 2006, there were only a small handful of companies who offered anti-fog versions and those brands were upwards of $500 or more. Although it is becoming more common to see the anti-fog visors offered as standard equipment, it is nice to know that Scorpion was a pioneer in this area and was the first company to offer an anti-fog solution that really worked!
The most amazing thing is the fit is incredible! The shell shape seems to fit a wide range of head shapes, and most people get a great fit. The helmet just seems to be super comfortable, regardless of who's heads inside. Both the EXO 400 and 700 fit about identical to each other. One of the really nice things about the EXO-400 and EXO-700 liners is the ability to customize the fit. The liners are easy to remove and once you take them out, you'll notice you can un-snap the material that covers the foam in the cheek pads and remove a layer or two or more to get the fit you are looking for. Again, this is a feature often found on super-high-end helmets like the Arai Corsair and Shoei X-Eleven. No other manufacturer offers this feature in the price range that we know of.
So, what is the difference between the EXO-700 and EXO-400? We asked this ourselves the same question after comparing the two side by side. Well, it all comes down to the venting, and the shell material. The EXO-700 has a slightly more aggressive vent system. In our evaluation, we found that the actual difference was minimal, but if you live in a warmer area, you might say the 700 slightly out-performs the EXO-400.
The EXO-700 is a fiberglass composite shell where the EXO-400 has a thermoplastic shell. Most higher-end manufacturers are using composites rather than thermoplastic shells these days. There is a lot of debate as to what material is better in terms of safety. We all have our own opinions and preferences when it comes to this matter. A lot of times there is a considerable weight difference between the two materials, but in the case of the EXO-700 vs. the EXO-400, don’t expect a big difference. They are within an ounce of each other.
Overall we love the EXO-700 and the EXO-400. Both are great helmets. If you are between the two models, our best advice is to pick the color you prefer. Both fit the same and boast the same great features. You absolutely cannot go wrong with either model! They are some of the best helmets we have ever seen especially at the price.
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