Q36.5 R.SHELL
£299.99 High-end jacket with performance to match
It’s hard not to like it from the moment you put it on with its great fit and soft feel
SIZES XS – XXL COLOURS Black/green; green/black WEIGHT 160g WATERPROOFING 18,000mm BREATHABILITY 5 RET Great breathability
If you think keeping dry on the bike demands no price limit, then Q36.5’s R.Shell is a high-end offering to pique your interest. Started by former Assos designer Luigi Bergamo, Q36.5 brings a wealth of good ideas to the performance waterproof-jacket table. Constructed from a three-layer fabric with a highly porous hydrophobic membrane, the outer layer employs a high-density woven polyamide, while the inner uses a softer fabric that feels good, even against bare skin. Q36.5 has built the R.Shell with the least amount of exposed seams, which are sealed on the inside, too.
The arms have ample length and are neatly configured with waterproof elasticated cuff inserts. These seal
well and the V-shaped wrists provide maximum coverage. The sleeves are also articulated for a good fit.
The tall collar features a soft fabric inner section that Q36.5 calls the Barber’s Collar, which stops any drips. The drop tail offers plenty of coverage, and sits perfectly in place, sealing well thanks to a silicone-lined hem. Two contrasting stretchy side panels also help with fit.
Rather than add pockets Q36.5 uses two flaps for jersey access. It looks a little crude but works well. Up front the R.Shell
has a 3mm waterproof Camlock reflective zip combined with an inner draft flap.
The R.Shell fabric and all-round sealing do a top job of keeping the wet stuff out, plus it works well at keeping you dry inside even working hard. It’s difficult not to like the R.Shell from the moment you put it on with its great fit and soft feel. Out on the bike, the performance is right up there, even in the worst conditions. All the details have been covered but at this high price you would expect the best quality.
VERDICT
Quality high-performing rain jacket, that’s ideal for racers
HIGHS Rain protection; breathability; fit LOWS It doesn’t come cheap