Riding in winter with Q36.5: our experience with the Interval Termica jacket

Winter has set in, and with it, that familiar dilemma for us, passionate cyclists: continue riding outdoors or take refuge on the home trainer. But in recent years, the situation has changed. With the advances of major manufacturers, it is now possible to ride in extreme temperatures while remaining comfortable. In this series dedicated to winter equipment, I chose to start with Q36.5, an Italian brand that continues to gain momentum.

By David Polveroni – Photos: Q36.5/DR

Q36.5: A brand designed for extreme cold

It is no coincidence that this brand, based in Bolzano, at the foot of the Dolomites, has become a must-have for winter cycling enthusiasts.. Led by its founder Luigi Bergamo, Q36.5 has set itself the mission of designing equipment that allows you to ride in all seasons. With Vincenzo Nibali as ambassador and technical advisor, their expertise is reflected in each product.

I had the opportunity to testand their Interval Termica jacket, a piece that I use daily this winter. Let's say it right away: This jacket has everything to become the mainstay of your winter outfit.

Insulation and breathability: a perfect balance

The first thing that struck me about the Interval Termica was its balance. Made with 11 strategically placed fabrics, it manages the feat of retaining heat without ever becoming stifling.. On my outings in the Alps, where temperatures dropped to -3°C at the start and to -8°C during the outing, this jacket proved to be impeccable. It may be hard to believe but I am never cold with this jacket. And for a number of reasons.

The double layer is reminiscent of some well-known models, such as theCastelli Alpha RoS. Here, the jacket only requires a technical undershirt to function fully. I used the brand's Base Layer 3, and this combination proved ideal. I was also able to use other underwear from competing brands. We then sometimes feel more covered, less light as if the symbiosis was less good. Here at no time did I feel the need to add or remove a layer, even when climbing, when the effort makes the body temperature rise.

Weather protection

Although this jacket is not designed to replace a raincoat, It resists light rain and splashes very well.. On a ride in near-constant drizzle, my upper body stayed dry. The practical, waterproof CamLock zipper plays a big part in that, as does the snug fit that limits cold air infiltration.

A jacket designed for all phases of exercise

What I particularly appreciate is its versatility.. When going uphill, sweat wicks away without any problem, even when I push time. And on the descent, I never had that unpleasant feeling of freezing cold caused by residual moisture. One of the strong points of this jacket is the possibility of opening only the outer layer to ventilate without directly exposing the body. This allowed me to effectively manage my temperature, especially in changing conditions.

It's not as aerodynamic as some closer fitting jackets though, but at least you can ride in it. Comfort is also an important point in performance.

My assessment after several weeks of testing

Over the course of my outings, the Interval Termica has established itself as my go-to jacket for winter. It perfectly manages temperature variations, protects against light weather and fits like a second skin..

Of course, it integrates perfectly with other products in the Q36.5 range:

• Base Layer 3 which is a honeycomb-shaped undershirt that perfectly regulates the temperature between +10°C and +18°C. Yes, you read that right, I deliberately did not opt ​​for a warmer undershirt like the Base Layer 4 which works between -5°C and +10°C, or the 5 with a hood because I tend to give off a lot of heat.

• Super Termico Winter Gloves will be able to guarantee good protection down to 0°C but we will see later for these temperatures, our comparison of heated gloves can be useful to you if you often ride in the cold or if you suffer from Reynaud's syndrome.

• The Termico Overshoes are in line with the products presented here and complete the range just like the Woolf Leg warmers which go perfectly with Wolf shorts. The latter are warm and fleecy shorts intended more for mid-season when you can remove the leg warmers, otherwise tights Doctor of Thermal Sciences remains a sure value…

Why I recommend Interval Termica

If you are looking for a jacket that will allow you to ride in temperatures from -5°C to 10°C without compromising on comfort or performance, the Interval Termica is for you.. As a demanding cyclist, I know how difficult it is to find equipment that combines protection, breathability and lightness. With this jacket, Q36.5 has clearly met this challenge. So, are you ready to face winter? For my part, with the Interval Termica, I have never been so motivated to ride, even in the bitter cold.

Note that it only has two competitors in my eyes: the Alpha RoS 2 from Castelli and the Q36.5 Termico Dottore which is simply the new name given to the jacket!

The question of price remains: at almost €450, this represents a substantial investment.. However, being able to train is a priority, much more than just a stage. It is a long-term investment, with materials and quality designed to last. My 2023 jacket, for example, has been changed only in name and shows very little wear despite daily use in recent seasons. In short, if clean but fresh air appeals to you moretagand Zwift, this jacket is a must-have in your wardrobe!

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