Abus Airbreaker Cycling Helmet - Movistar Team 18 Text Review

Introduction

The Abus Airbreaker Cycling Helmet - Movistar Team 18 is a high-end road cycling helmet built for ambitious riders seeking a blend of aerodynamics, ventilation, and style. Tailored for racers, competitive amateurs, and performance-minded cyclists, it carries the Movistar team livery to appeal to fans and riders wanting pro-level gear. It’s ideal for long rides, hilly terrain, and fast group rides where every marginal gain counts.

Design & Build Quality

Abus employs an in-mold shell construction, bonding the polycarbonate outer shell firmly to the EPS core for durability and impact management. The Movistar Team edition receives the same structural integrity as the standard AirBreaker line. Inside, the helmet integrates ActiCage Lite structural reinforcement and uses Flow straps (aerodynamic, vibration-resistant straps). The finishing is clean, with a polished paint job in Movistar colours. It also includes eyewear ports (AirPort) and ponytail compatibility for riders with longer hair. Reported weights are approximately 200 g for size S, 220 g for M, and 230 g for L in the Movistar edition. 

Performance & Features

One of the standout systems is Abus’s Multi Speed Design (honeycomb ventilation structure) that dynamically balances ventilation and aerodynamic drag depending on speed and airflow demands. On climbs, it opens up more airflow; on flats or high speeds, it helps reduce drag. It boasts 11 air inlets and 13 outlets, connected via internal flow channels to maintain an optimal head temperature even under heat stress. Adjustment is handled via the Zoom Ace dial system, allowing fine-tuning of fit. The helmet also features the AirPort glasses holder, integrated strap routing, and structural support via internal reinforcement (ActiCage) without excessive weight. 

Pros, Cons & Verdict

Pros

• Excellent ventilation thanks to Multi Speed Design and many vents

• Competitive aerodynamic performance for a ventilated helmet

• Light weight (especially in S/M sizes)

• Clean finish in Movistar team styling

• Adjustable fit via Zoom Ace, plus eyewear ports and ponytail compatibility

Cons

• Premium price premium for the team edition

• Slight weight penalty in larger sizes

• No magnetic or Fidlock buckle in the standard version (depending on variant)

• Team livery may limit appeal if you prefer more neutral colours

Verdict
For riders looking for a high-performance aero helmet with serious ventilation and a stylish “pro team” edge, the Abus AirBreaker Movistar Team Edition is a compelling pick. It balances comfort, cooling, and aerodynamic efficiency well. If you’re willing to invest a bit more for the team styling and accept slightly higher weight in larger sizes, this helmet gives you pro heritage and performance. For everyday or budget-conscious riders, the standard AirBreaker or other aero helmets may be more cost-efficient.