The Down vs. Synthetic Debate

When it comes to insulation, down’s the best… right? Or is down insulation just the best for certain situations? Are synthetic fills every bit as warm and comfortable as down, but without the heavy price tag?

If you’re shopping for a jacket, sleeping bag, or even a comforter and are a little confused about the pros and cons of both down and synthetics, you’re in luck. We’ve created the Down vs. Synthetic Guide to compare the best (and worst) of the two.

Here’s an excerpt from the Down vs. Synthetic Guide…

Quick Guide to Down

Pros

* Is warmer than synthetic insulation ounce for ounce. No man-made fiber matches down in its warmth-to-weight ratio.
* Retains its shape and loft and, with proper care, can last a lifetime. No synthetic can beat down’s longevity. Down holds up better over years of use.
* Wicks body moisture and allows it to evaporate. Moisture wicking goes a long way in keeping you comfortable.
* Is highly compressible and lightweight. Although synthetic insulation has come a long way, it doesn’t hold a candle to down’s ultralight weight and amazing compressibility. Down is the preferred choice for backpackers who want to travel light in dry conditions.

Cons

* Loses its insulating properties when wet and is slow to dry. And if down gear is damp—especially in a humid climate—it will take a great deal of time to dry. Don’t count on leaving your wet sleeping bag to dry while you take a day hike. Chances are it may not be dry enough for you to sleep in that night.
* Requires special cleaning. Cleaning down gear is labor intensive. Harsh detergents and chemicals will break down its natural loft and luster. If you don’t dry clean your gear, only very mild detergents or down-specific cleaning products should be used.
* May contain allergens. Down is not entirely hypoallergenic. While the down may not cause an allergic reaction itself, lower quality down can harbor dust particles, debris, or other non-down materials, causing a reaction. However, higher quality down is cleaned according to strict industry standards. If you’re prone to allergies, it’s wise to invest in better quality down products.
* Costs a pretty penny. Down insulation is far more expensive than synthetic insulation, but it’s a great value for the avid outdoor enthusiast if you factor in down’s resistance to deterioration. Recreational campers and hikers can get the job done with synthetic gear, which is usually a more wallet-friendly option.

Read the rest of the guide…