Five years ago, Luigi Bergamo and Q36.5 created the first 100% woven polyamide cycling bibshort which delivered a new level of support, versatility and comfort. The L1 Essential quickly became our biggest selling bibshort thanks largely to the fact that they are perfect for any type of riding, whether you are commuting, riding epics or racing. The use of the technically woven, multi-density polyamide resulted in a bib that was simultaneously windproof, water resistant and extremely breathable. Continual development subsequently gave rise to the incredible Dottore which took the already impressive L1 and made it lighter, sleeker, more aerodynamic and with enhanced, graduated compression. Both shorts, like all the shorts in the Q36.5 range, benefit from Q36.5's proprietary Fusion chamois for exceptional comfort on the saddle
Since the inception of the L1 Essential bibshort, Luigi's concept has been mimicked, with more companies employing polyamide in their shorts, though the Dottore and L1 remain the only shorts to exclusively use high-density woven fabrics in their construction. For 2018 Q36.5 have further refined their range to include the new Elite bibshort. Designed to be unique in the collection, the Elite bibshort is based on both the Dottore and Vented - the company's hot weather short, and takes elements from both.
The Elite is a super lightweight short that excels in hotter conditions. It has a lower rate of compression than the Dottore but at the same time, thanks to the use of strategically placed Dyneema yarn panels, is the company's most durable with some excellent rider benefits. Dyneema is the strongest and most durable lightweight fibre in the world and furthermore, has exceptional conductive qualities, ensuring that Q36.5's mission to stabilise body temperature for consistently comfortable riding, is honoured.
The Dyneema panels are postitioned in two areas with each offering a different function. On the side of the shorts it offers protection from road rash and skin abrasion in case of crashes and falls. In addition, Dyneema fibre was chosen for this side panelling as it has excellent conductivity and thermoregulation properties which help stabilise muscle temperature for optimal performance and nutrition delivery.
The second usage is in the seat of the short where the panel has a dual function. The Dyneema panel is used to increase the resistance to saddle wear and abrasion and also to stabilise the rider when in the saddle - no more sliding around or shifting position
The lower weight and the addition of the Dyneema panels make the short extremely versatile since it retains the host of benefits of the Dottore but in a lighter, more protective short. Ideal for those who spend time in the mountains or in hotter climes, or those who want the additional security of abrasion resistance in case of a spill.
The key element of any bib short is the pad and its interface with the rider. In the last decade, Chamois pads have been characterised by 2 different technologies. The sewn, flexible pad as pioneered by Assos and Cytech which introduced the Elastic Interface in 2000 and which conveys greater flexibility and elasticity; and Thermo Moulded Foam pads whose denser grade of foam offers more support and padding.
At the brand's inception in 2013 and after considerable R&D, Q36.5 introduced the world's first hybrid chamois that employs both technologies in a single pad design. Q36.5 refer to this innovative pad as their Fusion Chamois. A structure of multi-layer and multi-density open cell foam is engineered for varying levels of support depending on the area in contact. For example, the front of the chamois employs a softer, more flexible and breathable pad and the chamois is cut and sewn. Rearward, where support and comfort are favoured over flexibility, the foam is Thermo-moulded for superior density. As many of us will have experienced over our cycling careers, the perineal area is a sensitive one and demands extra attention. To this end, Q36.5 have placed 2 parallel longitudinal foam pads in the appropriate area to relieve pressure and the entire chamois is covered in a proprietary atypical 'double heart' shape of generous proportions in order to better cup the gluteal and genital areas. On first inspection the pad looks very large but put the shorts on and you'll wonder where it went. The complex construction lends the versatility to the short that is a signature of the brand; the substantial padding offered by the entire chamois means that no matter your riding position - whether you are an amateur endurance rider or a dedicated Time-Trialist - you are always comfortable with the requisite level of comfort and support.
Like the Dottore on which it is based the Elite is inspired by neither the 2-panel (Descente) or 8-panel (Assos) concepts which have dominated short design since the mid-80s, but rather it is cut according to an entirely new Ergogenic Pattern. The shorts have targeted support for different muscle groups during cycling and minimal panels and seams - none of which face forward in an effort to minimise aerodynamic drag.
The Ergogenic cut is possible thanks to the novel construction material and technique. The Elite employs numerous densities of 6.6 Polyamide fabric for maximum performance gain. The greatest density is also the most obvious and is in the lumbar panel at the lower part of the back of the short. Here it is employed to maximise body alignment throughout the pedal stroke. This area is important as many of the larger muscle groups meet here. In addition, the support offered through this higher density area also serves to reduce muscle fatigue and you can literally feel the assistance as you ride. Q36.5 refer to this as Vectorial Elasticity and it continues throughout the shorts with the varying densities of polyamide and the minimal number of panels in the design.
The Elite is further tweaked through the addition of the jacquard woven “circles” found across the surface of the leg panels. This circular pattern serves to improve aerodynamics by disrupting the air at the surface, reducing drag. Additionally, it's design is one of graduated compression which stimulates an enhanced so-called “pump-effect” of blood circulation - also known as venous return.
Contrary to most traditionally knitted high-end shorts, the use of high density woven Polyamide also lends a far greater robustness to the shorts without in any way altering the feel against the skin and with no weight penalty. Indeed, the durability for the weight is unmatched (even without the Dyneema panels factored in) and the shorts will continue to serve long after the competition are thread-bare: the materials and construction mean that the longevity of the fabric is approximately 10x that of traditionally knitted high end shorts.
If you ride in the UK, there is an extremely high chance that you will - at some point - get caught in the rain. The good news for riders in the Elite shorts is that the fibres used in their construction undergo a water repellency treatment before being woven, this not only maintains their natural structure but improves their drying time making them a particularly sensible choice in wet weather.
Another unique feature is the bib or braces. Constructed in a proprietary Tubular Brace System, the bibs are far softer both as a result of the fabric choice but also because the construction is seamless. In addition the fit is more ergonomic leading to a sense of the bibs disappearing when you adopt the riding position. Like the Dottore, the removal of the sewn-in leg gripper in favour of an un-hemmed leg improves both fit and comfort, as well as aerodynamics. It's absence further reduces weight and the injected silicon offers a super close, comfortable, aero fit - one that I very much prefer.
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!).
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 5 key vests - one uniquely for potentially wet rides but that also serves to keep the wind off (R.Vest Protection); the all-round Vest L1 Essential that offers both thermal stability, insulation and weather protection; the new 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; the new 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 - and lastly the Woolf Bombardino - a versatile gilet that can serve as a layering piece or an external weather defense during rides in changeable conditions - it's small too, so ideal for summer trips to the mountains where temperature can vary sigificantly with elevation. 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.