Innovation Museum: Julie Derron • Q36.5

As triathlon star Julie Derron gears up for the upcoming season, we’re excited to welcome her as a new Q36.5 ambassador. We caught up with the Paris 2024 Olympic silver medalist to discuss her unique approach to equipment, her philosophy on performance and comfort, and why trusting your instincts is key.

What is your first memory of making an upgrade to your equipment as an elite athlete? Could you immediately “feel the difference”?

I cannot remember an exact moment but as I progressed in my sport I was able to upgrade my equipment and could feel the difference. I believe it’s about comfort. If you feel comfortable and trust your equipment you are able to train and race better.

Could you explain your attitude to choosing equipment for training and racing? Do you have a specific philosophy or a specific (even unusual) set of criteria that you like your equipment to fulfill?

My equipment has to suit me. That does not mean it necessarily needs to be the ‘’best’’ in the world. But it has to be the best in my world. Performance, comfort and also durability of the equipment is important. And a nice colorway never hurts.

Are there any technologies/innovations that you feel you have been a particularly early adopter of in the world of triathlon?

I have a very old school coach, so nothing I do or any equipment I use is totally new. However, one unusual thing I do is to use running sticks. These are small sticks of bamboo wood that I carry in my hands while running to help me with my running rhythm and technique.

What are the three key characteristics you look for in your equipment (bike and bike apparel)?

The bike apparel has to feel comfortable and fit my body well. It needs to keep me warm in colder temperatures but also allow for a certain degree of flexibility. Especially the bib shorts should not cause any chafing. As for the bike, I am looking for a bike where I can ride my position. As triathletes we have to be able to run off the bike so we need to ride in a way that allows us to be as fresh as possible after riding. I am currently spending a lot of time on the TT bike. There it is very important to not get a sore back or neck from riding in the TT position all the time.

Do other parts of your training and racing regime follow the same philosophy (for example nutrition)?

Very much so. My training and everything around it, is based on individuality and what is right for me personally. As an elite athlete it is very important to know your needs and be willing to arrange everything accordingly.

How did you first hear about Q36.5?

I think I first heard of Q36.5 from my team mates (Daniela Ryf and Linus Hilfiker). They were wearing the brand and I liked the look of the material as well as the association with Switzerland.

What was the first Q36.5 garment you tried? How would you describe it? Could you “feel the difference”?

The first Q36.5 garment I tried was the triathlon race suit, the TRI Skinsuit Short Sleeve. And honestly it felt like a second skin. The fabric is super soft and allows for free movement in swim, bike and run. In racing the goal is not having to worry about the suit and any possible discomfort and the Q36.5 suit 100 % achieves this goal. I also did not get any chafing, as I had with previous race suits.

What Q36.5 equipment are you using this season for training and racing? Could you please talk us through a few of your favourite items? We are particularly interested in the unexpected favourites, the little details or items that one falls in love with.

I am using the Q36.5 TRI Skinsuit in my races and I am very much looking forward to my personal design. It’s going to be a bit different than the one I wore in 2024.
For training I am a big fan of the Dottore Pro Bib Shorts and the Dottore Pro Jersey. Both are super comfortable. Furthermore I really appreciate the Dottore Hybrid Vest. What I love most about it is the pockets on the vest. This is super practical to store and access whatever you carry with you easily during the ride.

Do you have a technological “mentor”? Somebody with an extra special equipment knowledge who tutors you to be smarter about what equipment you use, clothing you wear, food you eat? What is the most important lesson you received from this mentor?

My most important mentor is my coach Brett Sutton. He might be old school but he has a very good eye to see what works and what does not. I think the most important lesson he has given me is to trust my instincts. If something feels right, do it. If not, do not. That goes back to knowing yourself and your own needs.

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