The idea for avalanche airbags came from a Bavarian forest ranger named Josef Hohenester in the 1970s. He was caught in an avalanche while hunting, and realised that the wild game he was carrying on his back kept him on the surface of the snow. Hohenester patented his idea, and the patent was acquired by Peter Aschauer, founder of ABS, in 1980. ABS completed development of the first ever fully functioning avalanche airbag system in 1985, and has been the market leader ever since.
ABS was the first company to produce avalanche airbags. It has spent more years on avalanche airbag research and development than any other company. Through many years of real-world use, ABS technology has been proven to be safe and effective.
The modular design of ABS airbag systems allows you to prepare a customised airbag equipped pack to suit each trip. There are three main components of an ABS airbag system: the base unit, the zip-on pack, and the gas canister. Zip-on packs come in a range of styles and sizes with convenient mounting straps to carry your skis, snowboard, or helmet.
ABS base units include the shoulder straps, back panel, and airbags. ABS or ABS-compatible packs can be zipped on to the back of the unit. ABS base units are lightweight and comfortable to wear.
ABS zip-on packs come in a range of sizes, colours, and styles. The smallest sized pack is perfect for carrying avalanche safety necessities such as a shovel and probe. Larger packs are able to accommodate enough gear for a multi-day expedition.