ABUS AirDrop MIPS Helmet Review

Tech Features

The AirDrop MIPS helmet is Abus’ lightweight full-face helmet that’s built for anything from sessions in the bike park to burly backcountry lines and full-on enduro racing.

Integrating MIPS rotational impact safety technology, the AirDrop helmet is designed to offer comprehensive impact protection while also being as lightweight and breathable as possible.

ABUS uses an in-mold manufacturing process that gives the helmet a durable connection between the outer shell and the EPS inner liner, and their proprietary EVA collarbone inserts are designed to help prevent clavicle fractures if your helmet and shoulder make contact.

A classic double-D-ring buckle system keeps the helmet securely in place, while the company’s Zoom Ace FF dial-adjustment system allows riders to customize the fit.

There are 17 total air ports on the AirDrop helmet (11 inlets and six outlets) to keep the rider’s head cool on grinding climbs or long transfer stages, and the breathable cheek pads are also removable to allow for even more airflow.

A neat feature is what ABUS calls “ambient sound channels,” which allow more sound to reach the riders’ ears and let them be more aware of their surroundings.

The AirDrop helmet is available in two different shell sizes (S/M and L/XL) and two different colors (Polar White and Velvet Black).

Field Test Results

From the first time we put on the ABUS AirDrop full-face helmet, we were met with a comfortable fit that felt lightweight, comprehensive, and breathable.

Our size L/XL felt a little big at first, but the Zoom Ace FF adjustment system allowed us to easily tighten things down, and made the helmet feel snug and secure.

This slightly larger shell proved to be advantageous out on the trail, as the 11 air inlets and six vents allowed a ton of air to move through the helmet and kept our heads cool, even during the hot Southern Californian summer.

The highly breathable nature of the helmet and lightweight feel also allow you to hear virtually everything while riding, whereas other full-face helmets can muffle sounds (sometimes significantly).

There was almost no detectable difference in sound volume and clarity between the AirDrop and a half-shell helmet.

Even on long, meandering backcountry missions that had some significant climbing sections, the ABUS AirDrop was comfortable, breathable, and fairly lightweight.

Luckily, we didn’t have to test the helmet’s EPS and MIPS safety systems, though it gave us confidence knowing they were there in the event of a crash.

Speaking of the MIPS system, there was a noticeable rattle/creak from the system’s cradle, especially on rough and bumpy trails.

If you’re a rider who prioritizes a silent setup, bike and kit included, then the rattling could be a deal-breaker, or at the very least a nuisance out on the trail.

Besides the noise, the Abus AirDrop full-face helmet ticks all the boxes in terms of comprehensive and certified protection that is lightweight and breathable for long days out in the mountains or at the bike park.

Hits

• MIPS technology

• Adjustable fit

• Easy-to-remove cheek pads

• Lightweight and breathable

Misses

• Noise from MIPS system

Star Rating ★★★★1/2

Weight: 807g
Price: $300
Contact: www.abus.com