Klim Badlands Pro A3 vs Sedici Marco 2: Touring Showdown
Evan Rally
Updated: October 11, 2025
left for contents
Adventure touring demands gear that performs across extreme conditions—from scorching desert heat to sudden mountain downpours. The Klim Badlands Pro A3 represents the pinnacle of ADV protection with its $1,500+ price tag and CE AAA rating, while Sedici’s Marco 2 Mesh Waterproof offers budget-conscious riders essential protection at around $200.
These jackets embody fundamentally different philosophies in adventure gear design. Klim’s approach emphasizes maximum protection, premium materials, and all-weather capability for riders who venture far from civilization. Sedici focuses on delivering breathable mesh construction with basic weatherproofing for riders who prioritize airflow and affordability.
|
| 
|
Description: The Klim Badlands Pro A3 is a premium adventure jacket with a Gore-Tex Pro shell, CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance, and D3O Level 2 armor for top-tier protection. | Description: The Sedici Marco 2 is a summer-ready mesh jacket with a waterproof liner, offering excellent airflow, solid CE Level 2 protection, and practical pocket storage—great for varied weather rides. |
Pros:
| Pros:
|
Cons:
| Cons:
|
Description:
The Klim Badlands Pro A3 is a premium adventure jacket with a Gore-Tex Pro shell, CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance, and D3O Level 2 armor for top-tier protection.
Pros:
- CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance
- D3O Level 2 armor in shoulders, elbows, and back
- Extensive ventilation system with 12 vents
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Hydration bladder not included
Description:
The Sedici Marco 2 is a summer-ready mesh jacket with a waterproof liner, offering excellent airflow, solid CE Level 2 protection, and practical pocket storage—great for varied weather rides.
Pros:
- Superb airflow keeps you cool on hot rides
- Includes waterproof liner for unexpected showers
- Robust CE Level 2 armor in shoulders and elbows
- Smart, roomy pockets hold essentials securely
- Adjustable fit delivers comfort without bulk
Cons:
- No included back protector—sold separately
- Sleeves may feel long on shorter riders
Understanding these differences becomes critical when planning multi-day expeditions or daily commutes through varying climates. The wrong choice can mean the difference between confident all-weather touring and being forced to turn back when conditions change—or worse, compromising safety for the sake of comfort or budget.
Quick Verdict
Who should buy the Klim Badlands Pro A3:
Riders who prioritize maximum protection and weatherproofing benefit most from the A3. The jacket achieves a CE AAA rating through its Gore-Tex Pro laminate combined with SuperFabric and Vectran panels, delivering industry-leading abrasion resistance that matches track leathers.
Long-distance adventurers who ride through varied climates find exceptional value in the A3’s versatility. With 12 strategically placed vents, an integrated kidney belt, and a waterproof/breathable shell, it adapts seamlessly from desert heat exceeding 95°F to chilly mountain passes without requiring liner changes.
Those seeking gear built to last appreciate Klim’s commitment to durability. The jacket comes with a lifetime warranty on Gore-Tex products and a five-year crash-replacement guarantee, with most riders reporting a decade or more of reliable use.
Who should buy the Sedici Marco 2 Mesh Waterproof:
Commuters and weekend ADV riders in hot climates benefit from massive 750D mesh panels across the chest, back, and inner arms that deliver exceptional airflow. The jacket excels in stop-and-go traffic where heat buildup becomes most punishing.
Those who occasionally encounter rain appreciate the removable waterproof liner that provides emergency protection without requiring a separate rain jacket. The compact design packs small for travel and blocks wind on chilly mornings.
Value summary: The Badlands A3 costs roughly $1,300 more than the Marco 2. That premium buys AAA-level protection, a Gore-Tex Pro shell, and integrated D3O armor. Riders focused on serious expeditions and year-round use will find it worth the investment, while those riding shorter tours in warm climates may be better served by the lighter, far cheaper Marco 2.
At-a-Glance: Specs & Price
| Specification | Klim Badlands Pro A3 | Sedici Marco 2 Mesh Waterproof |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~5.5 lbs (jacket without armor) | Not specified; riders describe it as lightweight due to mesh chassis |
| Fit/Shape | Adventure-touring cut with adjustable waist, forearm and bicep straps; integrated kidney belt helps manage weight | Runs small; sport-touring fit with adjustable waist and sleeve straps; cut long in the arms to allow reach |
| Shell/Materials | 3-Layer Gore-Tex Pro laminate; SuperFabric ceramic armor on shoulders/elbows; Vectran fiber and Cordura reinforcement; 3M Scotchlite reflectivity | 600D Dobby chassis with 750D hard mesh and 1200D ballistic overlays; 500D 4-way stretch panels; removable waterproof/windproof liner |
| Safety/Certification | CE AAA rated to EN 17092; includes D3O Level 2 shoulder, elbow, chest and back armor | Includes vented AXIAL AX2 CE Level 2 armor at shoulders and elbows; pocket for optional back protector; no overall CE garment rating |
| Ventilation/Weatherproofing | Twelve vents including wrist, bicep, tricep, chest and rear exhausts; Gore-Tex Pro shell is waterproof and breathable | Large mesh panels on front, back and sleeves provide high airflow; removable waterproof liner for rain; shell itself is not waterproof |
| Storage | Fourteen pockets including chest, cargo, internal and rear hydration pouch; MOLLE panel for accessories | Two cargo pockets, two internal stash pockets and rear pouch for liner or hydration bladder |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty on workmanship and Gore-Tex waterproofing; 5-year crash replacement program | Two-year warranty from Cycle Gear (reduced from lifetime in 2017) |
| Street Price | USD $1,499–$1,599 | USD $199–$219 |
Understanding Your ADV Touring Needs
Before diving into detailed comparisons, consider your typical riding conditions and protection requirements. Adventure touring encompasses diverse riding styles, from hardcore off-road exploration to long-distance highway cruising with occasional gravel roads.
Long-Distance Expedition Riders
Riders who spend weeks on the road crossing multiple climate zones need gear that performs reliably without constant adjustments. Multi-day tours present unique challenges where weather can shift dramatically within hours—morning frost giving way to midday heat, then afternoon thunderstorms.
For these conditions, integrated weatherproofing eliminates the need to stop and add liners when rain appears on the horizon. The ability to manage ventilation without removing the jacket keeps you moving efficiently through changing conditions. Durability becomes paramount when the nearest gear shop may be hundreds of miles away.
Weight distribution matters significantly during all-day riding. Jackets with integrated kidney belts help transfer load from shoulders to hips, reducing fatigue during extended sessions. Premium moisture-wicking liners maintain comfort when temperatures soar, while breathable membranes prevent the clammy feeling that comes with waterproof barriers.
Hot-Climate Commuters
Urban and suburban riders in consistently warm environments face different priorities. Daily commutes through traffic generate extreme heat buildup, especially during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and pavement radiates additional warmth.
Maximum mesh coverage becomes more valuable than adjustable ventilation for these riders. The ability to flow massive amounts of air at low speeds—when ram air pressure is minimal—provides relief during stop-and-go traffic. Lightweight construction reduces the burden of wearing protective gear in punishing heat.
Budget considerations often weigh heavily for commuters who accumulate fewer annual miles than touring riders. The cost-per-ride calculation shifts when gear is used primarily for short trips rather than extended expeditions. Basic protection that meets safety standards while maximizing cooling may represent the optimal balance.
Riding mostly in the heat? Our Klim Induction Pro vs Sedici Marco 2 comparison dives deeper into airflow, protection, and all-day comfort for warm-weather riders.
Weekend Adventure Riders
Recreational riders who venture out for day trips or weekend camping tours occupy middle ground between hardcore adventurers and daily commuters. These riders need versatile gear that handles varying conditions without the extreme demands of multi-week expeditions.
Weekend riders benefit from jackets that pack easily and adapt to temperature swings common during single-day rides. Morning starts may require closed vents or light layers, while midday heat demands maximum airflow. The occasional rain shower requires some weather protection, though extended downpours are less common than for long-distance tourers.
Storage needs remain moderate—enough pockets for essentials like phone, wallet, and snacks, but not the extensive cargo capacity required for self-supported expeditions. Durability expectations should match 5,000-10,000 annual miles rather than the 20,000+ that serious adventurers accumulate.
Build Quality and Construction Philosophy
Klim Badlands Pro A3: Premium Engineering
The Klim Badlands Pro A3 is engineered as a no-compromise protective shell utilizing premium, cutting-edge materials. Its core is a 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro laminate, which permanently bonds exceptional waterproofing and breathability into a rugged outer fabric. This construction is so trusted it is backed by a lifetime warranty on the laminate’s performance.
For ultimate abrasion resistance, the A3 incorporates advanced materials like SuperFabric ceramic plates and Vectran fiber reinforcement in critical impact zones. This strategic use of high-tech armor contributes directly to the jacket’s top-tier CE AAA safety rating, the highest available. The protection is designed to withstand severe impacts and high-speed slides.
A sophisticated 12-vent system manages climate control, engineered to move air efficiently even at low speeds. Crucially, all vents seal completely when closed, ensuring no water penetration during storms. This creates a uniquely versatile jacket that performs in extreme conditions without the rider needing to stop and change layers.
Sedici Marco 2: Value-Focused Design
The Sedici Marco 2 is built on a cost-effective, mesh-first philosophy that prioritizes maximum airflow and affordability above all else. Its chassis is constructed from 600D and 750D mesh panels that cover roughly 70% of its surface, promoting exceptional ventilation. For protection, it relies on strategic 1200D ballistic reinforcement solely at the shoulders, elbows, and back.
Weatherproofing is handled by a removable polyurethane liner, a modular system that trades integrated performance for a lower price point. A key compromise is that this liner can feel clammy during exertion and drastically reduces the jacket’s signature airflow when installed. This design choice underscores its role as an emergency shield rather than a true all-weather shell.
Further cost-saving measures are evident throughout its construction, including the use of standard zippers, simplified adjustment systems, and basic liner materials. These deliberate choices make the Marco 2 a highly practical and accessible option for riders in warm climates where a limited budget is a primary concern.
Protection and Safety Features
Want a closer look at the A3’s premium build and materials? Our Klim Badlands Pro A3 review breaks down how Gore-Tex Pro, SuperFabric, and Vectran come together in everyday riding.
Klim: Maximum, Certified Protection
The Klim Badlands Pro A3 provides top-tier CE AAA protection, a rating that matches the abrasion resistance of racing leathers. This supreme defense is achieved through its robust Gore-Tex Pro shell, which is further reinforced with advanced SuperFabric and Vectran panels at critical impact zones.
This armor remains flexible for comfort during normal riding but hardens instantly upon impact to dissipate force. An integrated kidney belt adds another layer of safety by providing crucial support to the core during a crash. This combination of features creates a complete and uncompromising safety system.
It is built for the most demanding scenarios, from high-speed slides to remote expeditions where reliability is paramount.
Sedici: Essential, Budget-Conscious Coverage
The Sedici Marco 2 focuses its protection on the most common impact zones, equipping the shoulders and elbows with CE Level 2 armor. However, it does not include a back protector, offering only a pocket for an optional one. Furthermore, the jacket as a whole lacks an overall CE garment rating, meaning its full abrasion resistance has not been officially certified.
This construction, which prioritizes airflow with its mesh design, provides adequate protection for city commuting and moderate-speed touring. It is built to handle the demands of daily rides and weekend trips on paved roads. For these uses, its safety features offer a solid balance of comfort and essential protection.
The jacket is not designed, however, for the extreme demands of high-speed crashes or aggressive off-road adventures. Its protective capabilities are best suited for managed-risk environments where its compromises are acceptable. Ultimately, it represents a practical choice for budget-conscious riders in typical urban and touring scenarios.
Ventilation and Climate Range Performance
Klim: All-Weather Versatility
The Badlands A3’s 12-vent layout creates sophisticated airflow patterns that work across speed ranges from walking pace to highway speeds. This versatility proves crucial for adventure riding where speeds vary dramatically—slow technical sections, moderate-speed gravel roads, and highway transits between destinations.
Front chest vents include internal ducting that channels incoming air across the torso. Rather than creating a single cold spot where air enters, the baffling distributes cooling across the chest and sides. This prevents the uncomfortable sensation of a cold blast while maintaining effective heat dissipation.
Arm vents at the wrists, biceps, and triceps create circulation that prevents stagnant hot air from accumulating in the sleeves. Even with arms in riding position, air moves continuously through the ventilation system. Rear exhaust panels complete the circuit, actively extracting warm air from the back and creating negative pressure that draws fresh air through the entire system.
Sedici: Hot-Weather Specialization
Large mesh panels across the chest, back, and inner arms create unrestricted airflow paths. Unlike vented jackets where air must enter through specific openings, the Marco 2’s mesh construction allows air to enter from virtually any angle. This proves especially valuable during low-speed urban riding where ram air pressure is minimal.
The trade-off comes in versatility. Unlike the A3’s adjustable vents, the Marco 2’s mesh provides constant maximum airflow with no ability to reduce ventilation when temperatures drop. Riders in climates with significant temperature variation throughout the day must rely on base layers rather than jacket adjustments to maintain comfort.
The liner also dramatically reduces airflow through the mesh. What was a maximum-ventilation jacket becomes a relatively warm waterproof shell. For riders who encounter only occasional rain, this compromise proves acceptable.
Looking for an ultra-light summer option? Check out our REV’IT! Eclipse 2 review for one of the most breathable jackets designed for city and warm-climate commuting.
Value for Money: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
The sevenfold price difference between the Klim Badlands Pro A3 ($1,500) and the Sedici Marco 2 ($200) ultimately comes down to the rider’s specific needs and the true cost of ownership over time. For the serious adventurer logging high annual mileage across diverse and remote environments, the Klim’s premium is justifiable. Its CE AAA-rated protection, integrated Gore-Tex weatherproofing, and bombproof construction provide critical security where gear failure is not an option, and its lifetime warranty and decade-plus lifespan make the long-term cost-per-mile reasonable.
Conversely, the Sedici Marco 2 delivers exceptional value for the urban commuter or weekend warrior. Riders who primarily travel in warm climates and stick to areas with accessible services will find its massive mesh ventilation and essential Level 2 armor more than adequate. Its low initial investment is its greatest strength, offering legitimate protection for moderate-risk riding without the financial burden of premium expedition-grade gear.
The core differentiator is the type of risk each jacket is built to mitigate. The Klim is engineered for worst-case scenarios: high-speed slides on pavement, prolonged exposure to severe weather, and multi-week isolation from support services. The Sedici, however, is designed for managed-risk scenarios where its compromises in all-weather capability and maximum abrasion resistance are acceptable given its context of use.
|
|
|
Description: The Klim Badlands Pro A3 is a premium adventure jacket with a Gore-Tex Pro shell, CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance, and D3O Level 2 armor for top-tier protection. | Description: The Sedici Marco 2 is a summer-ready mesh jacket with a waterproof liner, offering excellent airflow, solid CE Level 2 protection, and practical pocket storage—great for varied weather rides. |
Pros:
| Pros:
|
Cons:
| Cons:
|
Description:
The Klim Badlands Pro A3 is a premium adventure jacket with a Gore-Tex Pro shell, CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance, and D3O Level 2 armor for top-tier protection.
Pros:
- CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance
- D3O Level 2 armor in shoulders, elbows, and back
- Extensive ventilation system with 12 vents
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Hydration bladder not included
Description:
The Sedici Marco 2 is a summer-ready mesh jacket with a waterproof liner, offering excellent airflow, solid CE Level 2 protection, and practical pocket storage—great for varied weather rides.
Pros:
- Superb airflow keeps you cool on hot rides
- Includes waterproof liner for unexpected showers
- Robust CE Level 2 armor in shoulders and elbows
- Smart, roomy pockets hold essentials securely
- Adjustable fit delivers comfort without bulk
Cons:
- No included back protector—sold separately
- Sleeves may feel long on shorter riders
Therefore, the smarter investment isn’t defined by price, but by an honest assessment of one’s riding reality. A rider who purchases the Klim for primarily short, fair-weather commutes is over-investing in unused capability, while an expedition rider opting for the Sedici is under-protecting themselves in situations where the gear’s limitations could have serious consequences.
In the end, the right choice is the jacket that aligns with your actual riding patterns, not aspirational ones. The gear that matches your typical mileage, common weather encounters, and acceptable level of risk will always provide the greatest value, safety, and satisfaction, regardless of its position on the price spectrum.
