Q36.5 Technical Cycling Jacket
The Long Sleeve Hybrid Que by Q36.5 is a garment I have a real affinity for. It was one of my first items of Q36.5 clothing, and it prompted me to explore and purchase much more of their range.
Prior to owning the Hybrid Que, there was a gap in the cycling clothing I was using when riding in the varied temperatures and weather conditions we experience in the UK, particularly during the Spring and Autumn. Not being completely comfortable when out riding or training was detracting from the enjoyment or effectiveness of being on the bike during my favourite seasons.
The Long Sleeve Hybrid Que resolved this, as it provided the fit, breathability, and protection I had been looking for, and a host of features which made it really stand out. So how is this achieved; 36.5 incorporate two of their high performance fabrics into the design of the garment. Scientific data relating to regional sweat rates of an athlete’s body forms some of what is used to ensure the optimum is achieved from these materials.
The chest, upper back, upper arms and front of forearms are formed in Unique HybridShell. This densely woven fabric is extremely wind blocking, breathable, highly water resistant, and has a ribbed fleece back. These properties are complemented by the level of elasticity within the material.
Unique Fabric L1 is utilised in the back, and underside of the forearms of the garment. It is soft to the touch, has a high level of elasticity, extremely effective at wicking moisture, and is constructed in a way that makes it resilient but lightweight. The Long Sleeve Hybrid Que is noticeably light (200g), and is shaped to be comfortable and efficient when on the bike. The Pre Shaped fit is something to factor in when you first try one; from a personal perspective, I find the on-bike fit is extremely good.
Ergogenic Pattern is incorporated into the design of the Hybrid Que. This feature serves to provide support to specific muscular groups, and reduce the effect of fatigue on these muscles, particularly on long or more intense rides. Ergogenic Pattern is noticeable by the snug feel of the garment, and how it complements on-bike position, and pedalling motion. Having used a number of items of clothing with this feature, I really value the comfort and performance it provides. This fabric and design expertise are examples of the technology that Q36.5 use to fulfil their design criteria to enable healthy body temperature to be sustained, throughout a ride.
As a rider, wearing the Long Sleeve Hybrid Que feels different. The fit, fabrics, low volume, and weight take away bulk and restriction, which is inherent to clothing used to overcome cooler temperatures and varied conditions. These properties are noticeable when getting ready for a ride, to those moments in training or riding when a turn of speed or movement feels unhindered. This adds a real positive to the cycling experience as a whole.
Within the Q36.5 website, detail is provided relating to combinations of their clothing which complement the Hybrid Que, to enable rider comfort across temperatures ranging from 5 degrees Celsius to above 15 degrees Celsius. From a personal perspective, I tend use the Hybrid Que in the middle area of that temperature range. This varies between rides when the temperature is reasonably constant, to early starts, or late finishes when the day is warming or cooling. The technical fabrics ensure comfort, and I vary the baselayer (Q36.5 Baselayer 1, 2 or 3), and add the superb L1 Vest, when temperatures dip.
The performance and versatility of the Hybrid Que is constantly beneficial, but becomes most apparent as the ride or conditions become more challenging. When descending or riding in cool temperatures or winds, the effectiveness of the wind blocking fabric and lack of front facing seams is extremely high. Should the intensity of the ride increase, the build-up of heat and moisture is managed by the fabrics and their placement, and rider comfort is maintained. This performance is something I really appreciate when riding in the hills or mountains, as is the water resistance of the garment should drizzle or low cloud drift in.
The Hybrid Que is superb for long days in the saddle, due to how comfortable it is, plus being equipped with necessary features: the pocket system, known as the Invisible Pocket System is virtually flush when not in use.
It incorporates three main cargo areas, plus a zip pocket, and has the capacity to carry essential items, numerous bars and gels to keep the legs turning. The pocket on the left arm is really useful for stashing a bar or gel, making that emergency energy boost really easy to access. Reflective tabs and thread are also integrated into the front and back of the garment.
The Hybrid Que is available in a number of colour options in both light and darker shades. When possible, I choose brighter colours for the clothing I use for road cycling. The Green Fluo was my initial choice, and I have recently added the Light Blu version.
If you are looking for a highly versatile item of cycling clothing, and something which will close a gap between your summer and winter options, the Long Sleeve Hybrid Que is really worth checking out.
