Q36.5 Dottore Hybrid Full Kit Review

Q36.5 is a brand that doesn’t rest on its laurels. While previous tests concerned products very similar to those tested here but from a previous generation (read here and there), the succession is now ensured with the new long-sleeve jersey and vest models from the “Dottore Hybrid” range, which is the top-of-the-range from the transalpine brand. In addition to these two new products, there is a pair of tights, also from the same line.

Text: Olivier Dulaurent – Photos: 3bikes.fr, Q36.5

Regarding the temperature range for this outfit, it starts from 5°C for the tights and 8°C for the jersey, while the vest, by its definition as a removable layer, can cover a whole range of temperatures. In all cases, these products have been tested over several months: after being put through their paces in spring, they have been faithful companions on rides in autumn. And due to the targeted temperature range, they will continue to be used during the coming weeks, or even all winter depending on the region of residence and the time it will be possible to ride.

Dottore Hybrid Que Jersey

Q36.5 immediately announces that this is version 3.0. And indeed, there are quite a few differences compared to the previous version tested. First, the pocket on the left bicep, probably deemed too useless, has disappeared.

Let’s remember that the entire tested outfit, including the jersey, uses Q36.5’s specific Hybrid fabric. This is a material without a windproof membrane per se, but whose purpose is indeed to block the wind. By what “miracle”? Quite simply, by using an extremely tight weave, theoretically guaranteeing insignificant wind passage through the garment in one direction and allowing better heat evacuation in the other direction.

Here, the Hybrid fabric is no longer placed on the entire torso but only on the upper half, with the lower part using a more classic, even more breathable material. The arms have also received some modifications: the lower part is thicker (let’s say more homogeneous with the rest of the garment) while a part of the back now also uses the famous Hybrid fabric to prevent cool air flow on this part of the back.

The cut – already excellent – has been reworked and conforms even better to the body’s contours, without restriction… provided you feel slightly too tight when standing. But the magic of this type of cut is that once in the cycling position, everything “falls” perfectly, without discomfort, of course, but also without unsightly creases.

In use, the excellence of version 2.0 is even surpassed: in the 8/18°C range recommended by Q36.5 (I personally limited it to around 7/13°C, because beyond that the jersey becomes too warm, especially if the sun is involved), this garment performs perfectly. Also, this garment is a true bridge between a traditional long-sleeve jersey and a jacket designed for real winter (cold). Perspiration is very well regulated even at the top of the temperature range, while around 7°C, the cold is not felt. Achieving this “great bridge” is very pleasant to use and allows for a versatile and, above all, relevant outfit in all conditions. Obviously, a real waterproof jacket will be needed in case of rain, and a simple summer windproof vest or even the Dottore Hybrid vest (read below) further extends the product’s possibilities: for example, flirting with 4/5°C (with a fairly thick thermal base layer) or for a very long descent that does not allow pedaling.

Also worth noting is the excellent aging of the product, which is like new after 10 months of use and the associated washes. This is an important point that helps to swallow the 250 € price tag (or even 270 € for the new colors, which also offer a double slider).

Dottore Hybrid Vest

Here again, Q36.5 uses the same name (Dottore Hybrid) but in a revised version. The brand announces that it has gone further in body mapping, the study of cold currents on the torso and back, and has surrounded itself with aerodynamics specialists while taking into account feedback from the professional Q36.5 team. In short, they wanted to make the same, but better. Visual examination confirms that the Hybrid material now extends to the sides and there is a real mesh in the back, along the spine, where excess perspiration often concentrates.

When putting on the vest, one immediately notices that the cut is slightly more compressive than the previous version. If you are between two sizes, you may need to go up a size for this particular garment, especially if you plan to use it in “winter” conditions, i.e., primarily over a thick jersey.

In use, it is notable that this vest is slightly warmer than the previously tested version, which increases its versatility, but it should be noted that it is slightly bulkier and heavier (160 g verified vs 135 g, in size S in both cases). So for those who only want a very light and maximally packable layer, they will turn to a lighter model like the Q36.5 Air vest.

However, this vest offers superior thermal protection in summer compared to minimalist vests and its use is truly for all four seasons of our practice, and concretely it remains compact enough to be placed in the back pocket of a jersey.

Another appreciable point is the quality of the collar, perfectly cut to be comfortable while preventing any air entry.

Finally, in terms of construction, two pockets have been added to the back, which is also a generalized trend among other manufacturers.

In use while riding, the vest distinguished itself by its comfort, versatility, and management of different temperatures and intensities: no cooling when riding at a steady pace but no “pressure cooker effect” during more intense efforts, even if it is still preferable to open the vest in these conditions. Furthermore, there is no “parachute effect” or air rushing in at the shoulders as is sometimes observed with this type of garment. This also benefits overall comfort and performance because rides are done without the noise of flapping fabric, and there must be a few watts to be gained at this level.

Concretely, we are in the presence of an ideal garment for many occasions, even from January 1st to December 31st, whether for an early morning start, to stay warm for the first 30 minutes of the ride, to ensure “cocoon” comfort around 10°C, or even for descending a pass in summer.

All these qualities and excellent resistance to wear and washing make the 190 € asking price more palatable. This remains a significant sum in itself for a vest, but this one will be a faithful companion for several years.

Dottore Hybrid Tights

For this very high-end product, therefore priced very expensively (300 €), Q36.5 has once again pushed the technical approach to the maximum. The fabrics are selected (always the famous Hybrid dear to the brand) and judiciously placed according to needs, while the chamois pad is that of the brand’s most expensive models. The result is first and foremost a perfect cut, without creases or irritating points.

Secondly, the comfort is felt as ideal: the different panels perfectly hug the leg, the chamois pad is very pleasant from the first pedal strokes and will remain so throughout the various rides spread over several months. The different fabrics almost make you forget that you are wearing a garment that usually feels restrictive. Indeed, tights generally suffer from a less pleasant cut than their bib short “counterparts”. But this is not the case here.

During effort, temperature management is excellent during intense efforts. It should be noted, however, that the temperature range given by Q36.5 is indeed the one felt: from 5°C. Below that, it’s borderline, but then the Dottore Termico (not tested) takes over.

Over months of use, no loss of comfort or signs of wear were noted. Thus, the initial investment can be spread over several months to justify the very high price tag. Moreover, it is necessary to consider the optimal usage range personally observed from 5°C to 13°C to specify that these tights will be very often used in regions with not always favorable weather.

To summarize the kilometers covered with these Q36.5 products, it must be admitted that they are particularly pleasant to use to the point of feeling like being in a true cocoon of comfort for rides around 10°C, which is generally a temperature for which choosing the “right” outfit is probably the most complicated: winter clothes would be excessive while a light outfit leads to feeling cold in case of a drop in intensity or during a descent. Conversely, the complete Q36.5 outfit using Hybrid fabric perfectly meets the needs related to mid-season riding or early/late winter, regardless of intensity and elevation gain. The question of price remains, which is very high in this case but compensated by the excellent durability of these very high-end items.

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