WTB VERDICT SG2 TYRE £59.99

The original Verdict was a tyre that could save you when all hope of staying upright was gone. Like jam on toast flung from a toddler’s arm, it would stick fast to anything it touched, leaving a deep furrow behind. But it had one big flaw, those tall and grippy side lugs were unpredictable on firmer ground, their long length rolling over when the ground didn’t move under them.

Now there’s a new version that hopes to keep the jam-like stickiness, but lose the unpredictability on firmer surfaces. WTB has changed the side knobs, beefing up the base of them to stop them squirming, and smoothing off the surface to create a more rounded profile on each lug.

The centre knobs have changed too, they’re wider and more stable, reducing the gap between them and the side lugs to develop a smoother feel as the tyre leans over onto its side – less flop, more elegant lean.

While WTB was at it, it changed the tyre casing too.

The old Verdict came in either a Tough casing or Light version for trail bike use, but the Light was almost as weighty as the Tough.

There’s now a bead-to-bead nylon puncture protection layer in the Light version that WTB says is so effective in preventing punctures it can reduce the hefty rubber content in the casing.

The upshot is less weight, improved puncture resistance, better support and a more predictable all-round feel. All bold claims, which you can be sure we will put to the test in a review soon. hotlines-uk.com

DOUBLE ACT

Alpkit’s Morphosis Jacket is here to bridge the gap between hoodie and waterproof. It does this with a wind and water resistant shell, backed up by fleece layers around the core and arms. Zipped pockets, lycra hood and sleeve openings, slim fit, two colours. £84.99, alpkit.com

SCOTT’S BONNET

The Scott Argo Plus helmet aims to provide good protection, via a MIPS liner, extended rear coverage, and the usual EPS foam, and a lowly weight and big venting. It’s just 320g claims Scott, comes in two sizes and in multiple colours. £74.99, scott-sports.com

BOAT SHOES

Specialized brought out a new shoe a year ago, the 2FO Roost, and now there’s a Canvas version with, well, a canvas upper. It uses an EVA midsole, an orthotics insole, and best of all, the same Slipnot rubber sole that made the original so good. £110, specialized.com

BIG OVERHEADS

Ideal for drafty carparks in winter, the Fox Merz Pullover Hoodie is made from a cotton and polyester blend, has a drawcord hood for warmth, big front pocket and comes up long – 30in in size large. Comes in three colours, five sizes. £65, foxracing.co.uk