Back in 2016 I fell in love with the original Q36.5 Hybrid Que jersey. While everyone was raving about (and sweating in) the Gabba, many of us were riding around in variable conditions in complete comfort, thanks to the Hybrid Que jersey.
Things have evolved since then and while the original Hybrid Que was pitched as a Jersey, it encroached brilliantly on territory more widely reserved for a lightweight jacket. It is what made it such an incredible piece. Q36.5's introduction of their
Cruise Equipment range last year, created a crossover with the Woolf Long Sleeve jersey - which delivers an even broader operating range than the original Hybrid Que.
No doubt with that factored in, Q36.5 set about revising the Que. The latest iteration of this versatile jersey then - the Hybrid Que X, re-establishes itself more squarely in the long sleeve jersey bracket and will work exceptionally well for those that either feel the cold sooner than others in the year, or for those that run hotter and who wish to use lighter weight pieces when the weather is cooler. A verstaile 3-season jersey that delivers unrivalled moisture management, water-resistance and wind-proofing.
Like its predecessor, the Hybrid Que X is in part, created from the company's UF HybridShell fabric - though it is now UF HybridSHell Plus and we'll get to that. 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.
It is the inner side of the jersey that has seen the biggest change in the Hybrid Que X though and what gives the fabric the 'Plus' suffix that I mentioned earlier. Before, the inside surface was'brushed' to create a ribbed fleece pattern in order to help stabilise body temperature fluctuations as part of the design remit of Q36.5. The Que X however, uses a new environmentally sound and sustainable 'Heat Fibre' derived from the residue of coffee bean processing. This fibre increases the thermal ceiling of the Hybrid Que X by a full 1
oC. That means that you will feel the same comfort as the previous jersey when the temperature outside is a full degree lower. Like the UF HybridShell outer, this fibre is treated
before being woven to maximise the breathability.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 sweat.
Q36.5's objective - as you will know by now - is to stabilise the micro-climate created by the body while riding, enhancing your performance by reducing the energy you put into maintaing the core's 36.5
oC optimum operating temperature. Much of this is achieved thanks to fabric blends, placement and cut. Indeed, the Hybrid Que X is RSR Body Mapped to develop patterns and their placement based on sweat rate in order to variably manage moisture over the body's surface. This approach reduces heat loss in order to maintain a more stabile body temperature: Q36.5 call it “Anti-Condensation Development”. This process boasts a high absorption/ emission rate of moisture in vapour form before it has time to change into sweat due to condensation. It minimises the dangerous heat loss that condensation can cause in sub-zero and cold training conditions.
The most noticable change from the original Hybrid Que is in it's feel - both in hand and on the body. It is immediately evident that the Hybrid Que X jersey is lighter and more comfortable. This is the result of the employment of UFL1 Silver Fabric in certain areas that were previously homogenously covered by UF Hybrid Shell; notably the underside of the forearms and the entire back panel. UFL1 Silver is the fabric used in the L1 summer jerseys and is remarkably adept at allowing moisture out of the fabric at a rate that does not cause a 'chilling' effect often suffered by less technical fabrics. It's use assists with the body's cooling at high intensities and also results in a more comfortable and lighter weight jersey.
Users of the original Hybrid Que will be particularly pleased with the use of UFL1 fabric on the lower arm of the Hybrid Que X which, combined with the new pattern shape and cut of the arms, results in a longer, more comfortable and conformable pre-shaped fit - far superior to the predecessor. On the subject of the sleeves, there is also the refinement of the original extra arm pocket. Previously sewn
into the fabric, the latest version uses a micro-mesh pocket that is externally bonded and finished with a discreet reflective panel for enhanced safety. The pocket is so light that when empty it is barely noticeable and sits flat against the arm.Q36.5 have also introduced a soft 2-piece Hermetic collar. Extremely gentle on the skin, it sits flush and ergonomically with the neck when in the riding position to ensure that no chill makes it inside.
Further to the refinements in cut, fabric and fit, the Hybrid Que X features 20% more reflective inserts for improved safety in low and flat light conditions. While historically some might baulk at the idea of reflective elements, Q36.5 have added these discreetly and tastefully and the biggest is in the drop-tail if the jersey. Made from a Silver/Black fabric that also serves to grip and hold the jersey in place, it is understated in normal light and is similar to that found on the Seta jersey.
As with all Q36.5 pieces, the Hybrid Que X is pre-shaped for the ultimate fit when adopting a riding position and its minimal look is enhanced with another innovation in an often over looked area – the pockets. Rather than crudely sewing an extra layer of fabric over the back of the jersey to create 3 pockets as is traditional, Q36.5 have integrated the pockets into the design of the jersey leaving 3 subtle openings they dub ‘Invisible Pockets’. The addition of a 4
thzippered pocket completes the package and – believe it or not - this design, aside from being far more aesthetically pleasing, offers a small but quantifiable aerodynamic advantage.
The fit of Hybrid Que long sleeve jersey is close and conformable without ever being restrictive. The proprietary fabrics used in Q36.5 clothing function optimally when the fit is snug against the body and it is an inherent design element of the brand. This closeness and pre-shape cut lends the ergogenic qualities that enable the fabrics to better support and stabilise the body, but this closeness is never at the expense of comfort and there is a notable freedom of movement when adopting the riding position.
The Q36.5 L1 Hybrid Que is a 'quiver-killer' when it comes to long sleeve options - particularly for UK riding - the ultimate of ultimates. It can be worn with the full range of baselayers, gilet and other jackets for real 3-season versatility. The most versatile of versatile garments. New fabrics and construction techniques once again ensure that the product is unique functionally and tactically, a key element of the Q36.5 brand - nothing is ever a gimmick.
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.