We are still deep in the midst of testing winter gear here at off-road.cc, with the latest shoe offering from Fizik in for review. We've also got a toasty looking jacket from Polaris and an exciting steel new bike from Cotic that has just been launched today, plus a nifty but pricey tool stored inside you handlebar from Wolf Tooth.

• Five tips to make winter cycling easier
• Top tips for mountain biking downhill in the mud – how to ride in muddy conditions
• First Look: 2020 Cotic FlareMax

Fizik Artica X2

First up are these waterproof boots from Fizik. We reviewed last year's Aritca X5s here, but the X2's looks to be a very different beast with a much more off-road and trail vibe. They are also nearly £100 more expensive than the X5s! For your dollar, you get a waterproof SPD shoe with a fleecy lining, the brands "eVent" waterproof/breathable membrane, a Boa closure and a durable ripstop fabric outer with Vibram Megagrip soles. 

• £280
• www.fizik.com

Fizik Terra Clima X2

Also in from Fizik are the Terra Clima X2's, the Terra part of the name signifying that these are from the off-road and MTB line up at the brand. These are an all-mountain shoe that is also waterproof and breathable like the Artica X2's but without the "eVent" waterproof/breathable membrane. There is a similar ripstop outer, a Boa dial, coupled up with velcro strap and a knitted 'sock' at the ankle to stop debris getting into the shoe. 

• £250
• www.fizik.com

2020 Cotic FlareMAX

We've reviewed a fair few Cotic bikes now and it's safe to say we are fans of the Sheffield brand. This time we have the big-wheeled FlareMAX in for review and this 125mm hooligan is begging to be ridden! The new and slightly longer rear travel is paired with a 130mm fork it gets 29er wheels, new Longshot geometry and a longer stroke shock to offer a wider tuning window which Cotic says will allow riders to get their perfect ride, regardless of their size, height and riding style.

Check back soon for Jon's review, in the meantime here are more Cotic reviews and a first look at this new bike here: 

• Cotic Rocket frame review
• Cotic Escapade Gold 1x review
• Cotic Soul Longshot frameset review

• From  £2,749 for a 'Silver' build
• www.cotic.co.uk

Polaris Tor Insulated jacket

Called a cold-weather essential the Tor jacket from Polaris has an insulated body and lightweight sleeves. The light sleeves look like they will make total sense when cycling, keeping the body warm without excessive bulk. It looks pretty stylish, it packs down, is only £75 but unfortunately only comes in men's sizes.

• £74.99
• www.polaris-bikewear.co.uk

Wolf Tooth Encase Systems Bar Kit One

Despite the long name, this kit from Wolf Tooth is meant to simplify things, storing all the kit you'd usually find on a multi-tool inside your bars. The tool slides inside your handlebar (carbon or alloy) and contains a vast array of components including a 15 function mini tool, chain tool, tyre plug and an inserter tool, a spoke wrench and a storage sleeve, plus the bar end to keep it all in place. The whole thing retails at a rather lofty £127!

• £127
• www.wolftoothcomponents.com

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