Q36.5 Base Layer Bulletproof Long Sleeve

The Q36.5 Base Layer Bulletproof Long Sleeve is a thermal cycling base layer for the coldest rides of the year. Q36.5 describes it as an extreme-cold version of its base layer range, and it is made to sit between a next-to-skin base layer and an outer shell, adding warmth without much weight. At 145 g in size M, it is light for what it does.

Air Insulation fleece

The garment is built around Q36.5's proprietary Air Insulation, an ultralight fleece constructed from brushed mesh. Q36.5 says the structure traps a large volume of air between layers while keeping close contact with the skin, which helps move moisture away so you stay dry for longer. The fabric is 44% polyamide, 44% polypropylene and 12% elastane. Polypropylene is a common choice for cold-weather base layers because it doesn't absorb water, which is why it appears here in a garment meant for hard efforts in the cold.

How it layers

Q36.5 designed the Bulletproof as a mid-layer, not a standalone jacket. Worn under a shell, it provides the insulation, and the shell handles wind and rain. The brand lists wind control among the garment's features, but a reviewer on Q36.5's site says the claim doesn't hold up when it is worn without an outer layer. Another says it suits rides at roughly 0 to 5°C in rain or wind when it is paired with something over it. For most riders, that means plan on a shell, a vest or a jacket on top.

Made in Italy

Q36.5 says production runs from start to finish in Italy, within a short radius of its headquarters in Bolzano. Reviewers on Q36.5's site describe the Bulletproof as very warm and well ventilated, with snug sleeves and a soft feel on the torso.

It is available in Ice Grey in sizes XS through XXL. If you ride through winter and already own a lighter base layer, this is the piece to add underneath your shell for the coldest days. Check Q36.5's size chart against your chest and height before ordering.