If you are not familiar with Q36.5, theirs is a concise range. In terms of Jerseys there are 2 main categories : L1 series - the essential, boundry pushing clothing that concedes nothing in the quest for the ultimate in performance cycling wear and that is - as a function of its novel materials and construction - near impossible to print on; and the more artistically relaxed jerseys, which in recent years have found themselves sub divided into 2 categories based on cut : R for Raglan and G for Giro.
Those who have followed the brand or listened to me wax lyrical about them over the last 5 years, will know that initially the company's range of more relaxed designs was entirely populated by the R Series of jerseys : Flower Power, Vaccaboia, Veloce Club Bolzano. As mentioned, the R stands for Raglan, a sleeve cut that was introduced in 1986 by Dutch cycling team PDM in order to give more space over to a larger sponsor logo. This they achieved by taking the panel for the sleeve (originally finishing at the end of the shoulder in a traditional Giro cut) up to the collar. This wider sleeve design, that allowed greater sponsor visibility, has subsequently become extremely popular. In recent seasons, Q36.5 have also introduced a range of more traditional Giro cut jerseys into the line-up under the G1 prefix.
Now in their second 4-year Olympic design cycle, Q36.5 have completely redesigned their R range to form the R2 series of jerseys. All feature an updated raglan cut and a host of new materials.
Much of the work that Q36.5 have done in the intervening 4 years between their original releases, in terms of Body Mapping and Aerodynamic studies has found its way into the new R2 jerseys and they feature a combination of different fabrics strategically placed that result in a new, more modern and sleek look and which offeri all the benefits of their detailed research.
The most noticeable area of improvement is the sleeves. Now constructed from a lightly ribbed fabric, these are closer fitting and feature an un-hemmed finish for a clean aesthetic, supreme comfort and improved aerodynamics. In addition, the front panel is a micro perforated fabric that is far softer in-hand than the previous R1 jerseys and the and there is a honeycomb mesh on the back to improve thermal exchange and keep you cool when the need arises. All together, this innovative combination makes the R2 jerseys very light (110gr) and very breathable.
The new 2021 releases of the R2 series feature more playful patterns including this Jungle design - which looks incredibly smart when on and partnered with Q's Navy bib shorts - and which complement the more reserved Y-design jerseys that features the pattern now synonymous with the brand and more specifically the Dottore.
Fit is improved over the previous R jerseys with a closer but still unrestrictive fit that is enhanced by improved stretch in the fabric and an ever-so slightly longer cut. The nature of the sleeve fabric lends a far more pleasing aesthetic to the overall countenance of the jersey and the sleeve length is more up to date and finishes lower on the arm, with a close but not compressive feel.
The invisible pocket system remains but with a new drop-tail similar to that found on the Seta jersey. This tail gives greater hold at the back even when pockets are loaded whilst inhibiting the jersey from riding-up - all of which ensures that your overall look is far cleaner.
As ever, your comfort and thermal stability are guaranteed by the company's continued focus on these key aspects, so you can ride unimpeded by distraction.
As a huge fan of Q36.5, there isn't much - if anything in the range I haven't either worn or own!
As with all cycling apparel, in order to do its job effectively : keep you warm or cool, dry, comfortable and aero, it has to fit correctly. All too often we see riders in clothing that is far too big, flapping around or with gaping sleeves.
We get it, some people don't want to 'look silly' in tight fitting lycra - the stigma for many remains. To these folk I say consider this: most of those who'll be paying you any mind while you ride around will be other cyclists; they will almost certainly think you look silly if you're riding around in loose, ill-fitting kit! Besides, you want to get the best from your investment so who cares what people who aren't part of the cycling fraternity think - if it fits properly, it works the way it's designed to.
Q36.5 is highly technical kit; regionally sweat-mapped for optimum moisture management; ergogenic pattern cuts for best possible form-fitting and aerodynamics; not to mention the thermal conductivity that helps stabilise your body temperature, freeing up energy for riding. Fit is key and often at odds with your civvies.
We recommend purchasing and wearing your Q36.5 garment or shoes ‘true to size’ - if you are usually a Medium, purchase a Medium; 43.5 shoe then 43.5. However, when trying on a Q36.5 garment for the first time please keep in mind that cut and fit is designed for on the bike comfort and performance, indeed it is a pre-shaped cut meaning and the user may feel a minor degree of strain (eg. in the shoulder and chest area of the jersey / jacket or the bib short braces) when standing upright - this is totally normal and preferred, since you don't ride standing upright!
Try adopting a tucked, cycling position when trying kit on - all cycling clothing of any note is pre-shaped or cut in this position in order to deliver the technical benefits of the piece. When on the bicycle, any feeling of restriction should literally disappear and be replaced by a snug fit yet with excellent ease of movement, comfort and stability. With shoes, you want a small gap between your toes and the end of the shoe. As you ride, your feet swell and your arches collapse slightly causing your feet to 'creep'. Most of this movement is lateral but there is some longitudinal movement also. If your toes are at the end of the shoe to begin with - you will suffer with numbness and pain.
If you are ever unsure of sizing - maybe you have no frame of reference or you've tried 2 sizes and both seem to fit - the recommendation is to size down! Better to have your cycling kit tight than loose. Materials will give out slightly too and in the case of bibshorts, you want the pad firmly against you so you are stable in the saddle and so there is no rubbing of material or shifting of the pad - this only leads to bad places; saddle sores and ultimately, quicker wear in your kit.
If you are between sizes or already borderline on a size (close to it being too small), you may wish to size up one. Similarly, if you are not quite 'racing snake' and the size chart suggests you are a particular size - if you are close to the upper most extreme of that measure - you may wish to size up (it's how it works for me!).
Overall, the jerseys seem to be smaller / tighter than in previous seasons so this may also factor if you are used to the brand. Ultimately if you really don't like tight fitting cycle kit, then focus on the Gregarius range and consider a size up . Use the charts as a guide.
For the latest seasons (2024 ->) there have been some changes to short leg length. In much the same way that the Pinstripe Pro (now Dottore Pro) jersey had an additional 2cm added for better overall fit, the Dottore and Unique bib shorts now have legs that are 2.5cm longer to better support the full length of the muscle. I would expect to see this creep into all shorts moving forward. Remember - there are rolling changes made where necessary during the 4 year development cycle of Q36.5 clothing.
There are also some changes to the structure of the range - at least in name. Collections are split by tech and fit: Democtratic Fit / GREGARIUS (Essentially KNITTED Fabrics with a more forgiving fit), Ergogenic Fit / DOTTORE (WOVEN Fabrics that fit close and are semi-compressive) and Skin Fit / UNIQUE (A small grouping, of UNIQUE Pro products that are second-skin). We separate them out in the menus on the site if it helps!
A note on socks : Q36.5 socks are supremely comfortable, easily the best I have ever owned. They last too and that feeling continues wash after wash where others become crisp and scratchy. If you are between sizes or unsure then I suggest you size down. There is plenty of stretch in Q36.5. With some models - notably the Be Love 0 and Be Love Seta - it is recommended that you cold-wash them before first use; they will shrink ever so slightly but not enough to warrant buying a size up.
Base layers are critical to the performance of anything you layer over the top. They should absolutely be a second skin or they don't do their job. If it fits like your favourite Sunday afternoon baggy T-shirt, bin it! Always buy the size that fits closest without any pinching under the arms or restriction at the cuff. Again, size down if you are unsure or between prescribed sizes. You may find that for the UK climate you can survive the winter in a short sleeve Q36.5 Base (Base Layer 2) - though this will depend on how you feel the cold. During summer, a base layer is still beneficial, helping to move moisture off the skin - where the temperature exceeds 24oC, you may find that a Clima or Dottore PRO jersey are fine next to the skin but both (and all other jerseys) will perform better when the Zero Mesh base layer is in play.
Get a Vest / Gilet! If you don't own one, this is the single piece of equipment that offers the broadest range of benefits. A good gilet offers wind protection on chilly mornings, late evenings, descents after hot and sweaty climbs and core protection in sudden downpours - it is virtually indispensible year round. Not sure where the weather will go an any given ride? Stuff it in a jersey pocket and your core will always be protected, extending the operating temperature of the rest of your outfit; be that in summer or winter.
Q36.5 make numerous vests - one uniquely for potentially wet rides but that also serves to keep the wind off (Rain Shell Vest); the all-round Vest L1 Essential / Hybrid Vest that offers both thermal stability, insulation and weather protection; the Air Vest, the ultimate in low bulk emergency wear that will keep the wind and showers from ruining your ride and that packs down incredibly small - it weighs just 69g; and the Adventure Insulation Vest developed for lower intensity and more adventurous forays off the beaten track in a design that weighs in at just 115g & packs away easily.Remember - the fit needs to be close, particularly when layering.
Be smart with your Q36.5 clothing. Wash it without softener at cold temps - preferably as soon as you get in from your ride. And use their Tech Wash - it will make your kit last longer and perform the way it is supposed to.