Italian cycling apparel brand Q36.5 has officially launched its latest foul-weather gear after a year of real-world testing by Tom Pidcock and his pro teammates. The centerpiece is the Rain Shell Aero Jersey, humorously nicknamed “The Condom” for its ultra-snug, aerodynamic fit and protective waterproof design.
Retailing at £250, the jersey is part of Q36.5’s new three-piece wet-weather “Capsule Collection”, designed for serious riders who refuse to let bad weather stop them. Developed using a double membrane construction, the jersey offers full rain protection while improving moisture wicking to keep cyclists dry from both rain and sweat.
Q36.5 founder Luigi Bergamo explained that the “Condom” was meant to be the final layer in a rider’s rain system, usable on its own or under other jackets like the Vampire Shell or Rain Shell Plus. The design emphasizes both aerodynamic performance and comfort in conditions above 12°C, perfect for intense efforts in the rain.
For colder days, the Vampire Shell Jacket (£350) provides warmth in 5–10°C conditions, while the top-tier Rain Shell Plus (£500) offers maximum waterproofing and insulation for rides as cold as 0°C. Together, the three garments create a £1,100 weatherproof racing system built from the feedback of Pidcock and his team.
Despite the tongue-in-cheek name, Q36.5 insists the product delivers pro-level performance for any cyclist. Bergamo says the brand’s mission is to design clothing that performs in all weather conditions and “The Condom” might just be the safest way to ride hard in the rain.
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