Welcome to FREESKIER's special buyer guide feature. This is a close-up of the best ski essentials of the year. Click here to browse the entire 2021 FREESKIER Buyer's Guide.

Sammy Carlson Pro series is suitable for cold, long mid-winter powder hunting. The blend of merino wool and luxurious soft bamboo fiber keeps your feet dry, while the strategic cushioning and elastic support will keep you safe during long treks, sleigh rides and endless pillow lines under large foot pads. The socks are fixed in place. 

Dissent's IQ Fit provides what every skier desires, except for free PBR-warmth without volume. Hybrid (shown in the picture) provides lightweight cushioning, sufficient breathability, seamless locking design, and is made in the United States. Compression socks prevent fatigue; think of them as an important addition to your kit.

Expedition Hood is the Swiss army knife of the balaclava. Wear it under the helmet, pull it over the nose or tuck it under the chin, using the adaptable Exo-Hinge design. This synthetic fiber is made in the United States and can even be machine washed. Didn't realize that neck heaters can be so versatile? Neither do we.

This is the iconic socks of horse racing queen Mikaela Shiffrin-do we need to say more? The master of Smartwool injected nylon reinforced merino cashmere into the Ski Race OTC, and added cushioning to the toe to enhance durability. With a non-slip fit, it is an ideal daily driver.

Made in Vermont, Skida’s new balaclava is made of its iconic moisture-wicking stretch material and offers a large number of eye-catching patterns; cascading camouflage patterns are shown here. You can easily wear it under your helmet or hang it around your neck when you need to taste the brewski after skiing.

Darn Tough from Vermont collaborated with Michelle Parker to bring you Traverse socks. The close-fitting, calf design uses lightweight cushioning on the tibia and underfoot, ventilates the top, and provides all the advantages of merino wool. Knowing that it is backed by the Darn Tough lifetime warranty, please sit back and relax.

Based in Vail, Ski Town All-Stars is the most popular Smirnoff hat making team in the ski industry. Simba is equipped with an insulated panel and a foldable brim that will spare no effort to block all natural forces and ensure that your dome is protected from sunlight on the longest skin track.