Abus Airdrop Review

The Gravity line from the safety experts in Wetter is growing. Recently, it has been expanded with the YouDrop, a full-face helmet with a removable chin guard. The junior model could take inspiration from its own ranks for the first time, as last autumn Abus's long-anticipated full-face debut named AirDrop hit the market. And we planted this newcomer, suited for everything that has to do with speed and airtime on the mountain bike, on the head of a full-face beginner for testing purposes – newcomer meets newbie, so to speak.

Designed for downhill-oriented and jump-loving riders, the Abus AirDrop is meant to offer the best protection with comfortable wear and good ventilation.
The helmet, weighing 800 grams (size S/M), is available in two different versions: once with an emergency call function as AirDrop MIPS QUIN in black priced at 359.95 euros, and classically as AirDrop MIPS in six different designs for €299.95.

All models are equipped with the rotational impact protection MIPS. The difference between the two versions lies in a smart (and retrofittable!) feature, which is mounted on the back of the helmet and is powered by a battery that lasts about a month.
A small microchip with five sensors measures movement and can be connected to a smartphone via the corresponding app. In the app, contact details for emergencies can be set. If the movement forces exceed a certain limit, meaning the sensors detect a fall, the app starts a countdown, after which the emergency contacts are notified – including the location. A good thing if you're often out on the trail alone!
If the sensor has been triggered erroneously or the fall was minor, one can interrupt the emergency chain.

The German manufacturer relies on the InMold process for production. This means that the outer shell and the internally located, shock-absorbing EPS are bonded together in a single step.
Thanks to the Zoom-Ace-FF adjustment system at the back of the head, the head circumference can be adjusted. Thanks to a structure-reinforcing inner construction called Anti-Cage, the helmet achieves extremely high stability. As a result, larger cutouts for ventilation and hearing can be implemented.
Good ventilation - even when riding uphill - is ensured through a total of eleven air inlets and six air outlets. The Ambient Sound Channels ensure that ambient sounds can be perceived naturally.

On the underside of the chin guard, there is a slightly softer protective edge, which should be more gentle on the collarbones in the event of a fall. The visor is height-adjustable, offers enough space for an action camera, comes with a predetermined breaking point, and thus detaches in the event of an accident.
The AirDrop helmet is fastened with a double D-ring, which promises high wearing comfort. The washable cheek pads inside the helmet come in two sizes - these are included in the scope of delivery.

Tech Specs

I was looking for a safe helmet that wouldn't be too heavy or hot. Spoiled by the wearing comfort of half-shell models, I was initially a bit skeptical. However, when I put on the helmet and adjusted it to my head using the dial at the back, some of my initial doubts immediately faded.
Although I feel somewhat confined by the unusual chin bar and the thick cheek pads, the weight is surprisingly low. Even with a long hairstyle, I have no loss of comfort with the AirDrop MIPS. The dial and the double-D closure promise precise and quick adjustment of the helmet. So - put on the glasses and hit the trail!