By now, most will be familiar with Q36.5's approach to garment construction. A no compromise focus on thermal stability for riders looking to push-on in all conditions. Their range of proprietary, cutting edge fabrics deftly deliver on this promise while at the same time reducing loathsome bulk that is the bane of so many other clothing ranges.
From a Winter perspective, often warmth can only be achieved with 3 or 4 layers from one company, yet can be achieved in 2 with Q36.5. Similarly, competitors clothing often has a thermal ceiling where riders begin to suffer from a lack of breathability and overheat, while those in Q36.5 can ride unencumbered by worries of thermal stress, allowing them to get the most from their riding.
Before now the Q36.5 range had two early Winter / Winter pieces: the Hybrid Que jersey/jacket (a personal favourite and a Castelli killer - the Gabba / Perfetto has nothing on it) and the heavier weight, all-out Winter jacket, the Termica. Also bloody brilliant!
For those that like a jacket that will deliver come rain or shine, the new Air Insulation Jacket from Q36.5 is likely a box ticked. Slipping seamlessly between the Hybrid Que and the Termica, the Air Insulation delivers the comfort trifecta : weather protection, thermal insulation and unrivalled breathability.
The Air Insulation Jacket is versatile, compact and light. It is ideal for variable weather conditions and as such suits the British off-season perfectly. Aside from those few and far between sub zero days, the Air Insulation should happily see you through the Winter.
Like the Termica, it has a high, ergonomically designed, protective collar to maximise both thermal and wind protection around the neck area. It has a completely pre-shaped fit and clever body mapping to respond to riders’ needs. The core of the jersey is constructed entirely from Q36.5'S proprietary Hybrid Air Protection fabric. This is a completely new two layered fabric. Like the Hybrid Que, the outer layer incorporates a ribbed fleece and high-density polyamide weave and is enhanced by a special water resistance treatment (the UF Hybrid Shell).
UF HybridShell is a non-laminated double-woven fabric that is able to mimic qualities of a shell (laminated fabric with membrane) without many of the associated drawbacks such as limited breathability and long drying times, as well as performing the thermal functions of a fleece material.
The fabric is woven at right angles at such a high density that the finished fabric has technical values within range of materials that use membranes. For example it is twice as breathable as “Windstop” shell fabrics and over 20 times more wind resistant than typical fleece fabrics.
Q36.5 achieve this wind resistance through the density of the material and it is this novel approach that significantly increases the fabric’s versatility making it far more breathable than a shell and as a consequence, it performs better in high-intensity conditions where the rider achieves high body temperatures and significant levels of perspiration.
The Air Insulation Jacket's enhanced breathability also stems from this outer layer. The threads that are used for the UF HybridShell fabric are treated for water resistance before being woven. Unlike the majority of manufacturers who apply waterproofing treatments to the finished fabric (usually with the inclusion of a resin or coating that 'seals' the fabric), treating the threads before they are woven allows them to maintain their ‘natural’ structure and this is a key element in helping the fabric maintain a high level of breathability. If you have ever worked hard in a 'Windproof' shell jacket or a Gabba jersey, for example, you will have noted how quickly you heat up and how wet you get from perspiration.
For the inner layer, insulative and moisture management duties are performed by a new UF Air Insulation fabric, a brushed loft knit jacquard with incredible moisture vapour management and thermal capabilities. Moisture is effectively dispersed over the surface of these hexagons of material to allow more rapid movement and transpiration through to the outer layer where is is dispelled in controlled fashion, keeping you dry.
The overall result is high thermal protection with low volume that can adapt to the different demands of high intensity winter training. A combination that protects you with wind control yet maintains a high breathability rate due to the lack of a membrane while the UF Air Insulation works as a heat retainer. The entire jacket has a durable water repellent treatment to increase fast drying times and protects riders in wet weather conditions.
Like all Q36.5 kit, the jacket is ergonomically cut for riding, don't be surprised if you try it on and feel restricted across the chest and shoulders while standing - it simply isn't meant for walking around in. Tuck down into the familiar riding position and the restriction vanishes, leaving only a silhouette of a jacket in an optimal position to perform its duties while you get on with your riding.
Q36.5's usual attention to detail is in evidence, with a particular focus on safety. The Air Insulation features a large but uninvasive reflective stripe on the upper third of the rear of the jacket and a drop-tail made entirely of reflective material for enhanced visibility. Silicone lines the inner face for excellent jacket hold, even when the pockets are laden. Safety detail is finished with a reflective zipper and numerous tabs, while the wrist and stretch panels on the sides are made from silicone backed vis material that enhances visibilty while signalling and from the side. Three pockets on the rear offer ample storage with the outermost cut at an angle for improved access while on the move. A fourth zippered pocket provides extra security for your valuables.