Still biking? Definitely…

Q36.5 are introducing a number of exciting products for the winter season. These are in the form of the Cruise Equipment, and an insulative jacket. Certain products have also been updated to incorporate ongoing refinements.

Cruise Equipment

This addition comprises jerseys, an insulative vest and accessories in the form of arm, leg and knee warmers.  The Cruise Equipment is designed for temperatures between 10 and 16 degrees Celsius, and aims to sustain rider comfort in a range of conditions.  Q36.5 utilise a technical fabric, combined with their design expertise to achieve this performance criteria.

Their UF Active fabric is used throughout the Cruise Equipment line. It is lightweight, but has a dense, water repellent, windblocking exterior, and a fine Merino wool interior. This combination provides protection against the elements, warmth, and comfort. This is partially achieved in the way the fabric manages moisture and humidity, combined with its fast drying time.

Q36.5 place great emphasis on rider visibility, and incorporate a mix of reflective inserts and colour panels throughout the Cruise Collection.  Having witnessed the effectiveness of the reflective inserts on the Jersey Long Sleeve WoolF, and WoolF Leg Warmers, I can confirm their low light/night time visibility is superb.

I have used the Jersey Long Sleeve WoolF during late summer and early Autumn, and already anticipate that the Cruise Collection will be extremely suited to the varied climate and conditions we experience in the UK.

The Jersey Long Sleeve WoolF is close fitting, and its Merino interior makes it very comfortable when worn next to skin. I combined the Jersey with Baselayer 1 (a sleeveless baselayer) also by Q36.5, and found this combination worked extremely well.

When spending long periods on the bike, the jersey seems to almost disappear, other than discretely providing protection from the surrounding conditions, and efficient pockets to carry items required for the ride. A visual reminder of the jersey’s presence, is when the bright green colour contrast panels at wrist level catch your eye.

My time using the jersey has generally had a bias towards endurance rides, although some climbing has featured. When the gradient has become more challenging, I have remained comfortable, neither feeling excessively warm, nor experiencing a build up of perspiration inside the jersey.

Q36.5 identify the jersey’s potential to ensure rider comfort when the intensity of the ride is high. Respecting the level of performance their clothing consistently provides, I am sure this will be the case.

The Air Insulation Jacket

The Air Insulation Jacket is described as a mid season and early winter item of equipment, and the warmer brother of the Hybrid Que (a long sleeve Jersey/Shell).

Q36.5 form the core of the jacket from Hybrid Air Protection fabric. This is a new,
two layer fabric. Its outer layer has windblocking and water resisting properties. The inner is a brushed loft knit jacquard, which provides warmth, and manages any moisture or vapour build up, without adding bulk to the jacket.  The jacket has a water repellent treatment for improved drying time and to provide protection in wet conditions.

The Jacket has a sleek, performance orientated appearance, and it is currently offered in either black, or orange. Both incorporate reflective inserts and colour contrast panels to assist visibilty.  I have the orange version,  and really value the option of an eye catching colour.

When first trying the jacket for size, I noticed the collar was close fitting, and I was intrigued to learn how this would feel and perform whilst riding. Within a short time the benefit of the design became apparent, as the potential of cooling from the neck area seemed greatly reduced (it prevents cool air entering, and reduces loss of warmth retained by the new fabric).

Q36.5 incorporate their Invisible Pocket System into the rear panel of the jacket. This provides ample cargo capacity for nutrition, phone, essentials case, and more.  The design ensures the pockets sit flush when not in use. A zip pocket also features.

Having used the Air Insulation Jacket on a number of occasions, it has become firm favourite.  From the first ride, I noticed how comfortable it was to wear; its pre-shaped fit, combined with the stretch,  and softness of the fabrics contributes greatly to this.

I have now used the Air Insulation Jacket for both flat and hilly rides, in temperatures ranging from 10 and 14 degrees Celsius. Whether climbing or holding an endurance tempo, thermal comfort has been perfect.

Q36.5 also offer a women’s version of the jacket, the Hybrid Jacket Lady.  My partner has been using this item during the last 18 months, and finds it excellent for mid season and early winter cycling.

If you are looking for a mid season/early winter jacket, the Air Insulation by Q36.5 is really worth checking out.

For more information, feel free to contact me or go to www.q36-5.com