We are talking about the new Met Parabellum, or the modern interpretation of one of the historical helmets designed specifically for all-mountain and enduro bikers. With evolution and segmentation so fast in our sport, the need to produce models that are more suitable for use with all-mountain bike has arisen.
With this type of MTB, in fact, it is always easier to reach high speeds even without expert driving skills and therefore the helmet should protect better and must also be light and well ventilated because the uphill sections are not lacking.
The Parabellum has been created keeping these points in mind: it is a helmet that protects much downhill but remains fairly light and breezy uphill. Let’s see how it goes.
Table of Contents
Design and Built
The Parabellum catches the eye for its aggressive and sophisticated aesthetics. You immediately understand this helmet is “gravity friendly” with a weight of only 289 grams (for size M). When you connect, the helmet completely envelops your head and gives ample covering for extra protection in case of a fall.
The materials and attention to detail is great. Ventilation is entrusted to as many as 33 outlets air positioned on all sides. The huge front visor is adjustable and protects from the sun’s rays and rain. The vents also help to channel the flow into the shell, keeping a cool head. The helmet is adjusted using a micrometric wheel on the neck (called Safe-T Smart), very precise and easy to use even with one hand.
According to the manufacturer, Parabellum reached a “Cooling Factor” of 7.5, which is calculated using flow analysis on the computer. Since this value is used exclusively by MET and no scale for the classification of the results is provided, no comparison with the helmets of competitors can be done. Overall, however, it would be quite good if a standardized, high-performance computing model would become the industry standard.
On the front, there is a O2 gel band that has a dual function – on the one hand prevents the helmet from sliding forward by creating problems to the visibility (and safety in case of impact). The straps are well positioned and help the helmet to stay firm once adjusted. During biking, they don’t create trouble and never get loose due to sweat.
MOPOV System
The abbreviation MOPOV means “My Own Point of View” and refers to the adapter for mounting cameras on the helmet. It is composed of two parts which are inserted into the opening for the central ventilation.
We shot the video with a GoPro mounted on the Parabellum. We fixed the classic adhesive on GoPro, and the camera has been still without problems. The central position above the head is ideal for shooting both in the direction of travel and in the opposite direction. MOPOV system leaves absolutely no room for vibrations. The best thing is to tighten the helmet on the head very well.
Fit
The Met Parabellum really surprised with its fit. Just put it in your head and adjust the thumbwheel on the back of your neck to feel very stable and comfort of the interior pads and light weight contribute to make it almost imperceptible (the helmet should be always connected both downhill and uphill). The big visor over your eyes does not create difficulties during use. The field of view remains excellent while using goggles and masks.
Met Parabellum On the Trails
Comfort is the first thing that is evaluated in a helmet, although it is a parameter that inevitably has a large degree of subjectivity. That said, the Parabellum is from this point of view a bit ‘special. We found the Parabellum very comfortable even wearing it for several consecutive hours.
The occipital retention system is effective and consequently the stability is also excellent along rough terrains. No problem even with the settings – both straps that keep the visor perfectly set in its position.
The gel to the front of the helmet actually does out its work of avoiding the drops to settle in the eyes or on the glasses.
Conclusion
The Met Parabellum is definitely one of the best helmets that we ever tried. It has a very good fit, a very low weight for its category and overall good ventilation. Those looking for a helmet for all-mountain and the latest generation enduro bikes, will find a viable option in the Met Parabellum.
Daniel, a mountain biking expert with a Master’s degree in Sports Science, has over 10 years of experience navigating the toughest trails. With a passion for sustainable riding, he shares expert tips and gear advice on mountainbikerz.com. Join his 145K followers on Instagram.