The 12 Best Technical Essentials for Winter 2010

With the advent of indestructible man-made fibers and innovations in intelligent design, even the humblest accessory outperforms its forebears by light-years. When it comes to performance pieces, we've rounded the best technical essentials for the mountaineer in you. Check out the insulation on Eddie Bauer's premium line First Ascent down puffer or plaid button-down shirts lined in discreet fleece by Victorinox. More than meets the eye. No Michael Bay.