When winter sets in and you get the urge for a BCFing adventure, don't let the chill stop you in your tracks! With the right winter wardrobe, you'll be ready for just about anything, and that's where an insulated down jacket can be so handy. If you've ever shopped for one of these beauties in the past, there's a classic conundrum that we thought we'd help you with: down or synthetic fill?
Now, both types offer warmth and comfort, but they shine in different areas. Whether you're hitting the hiking trails, gearing up for the morning commute, or just trying to survive your local winter, here's how to decide which is right for you.
What is down insulation?
Nature's best insulator! Down is the fluffy underlayer of geese or duck feathers, which is considered by many the only way to go when choosing a filling type. Now, down feathers aren't really feathers in the traditional sense, as they don't have a quill and instead come in loose clusters that look more like a snowflake. These clusters create thousands of tiny air pockets that trap in warm air and retain heat – just what you're chasing in a fill! What else makes down so special is the exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio it offers and the fact that it's highly compressible and can be squished down extremely small. If you're looking for a jacket that's super durable, compact and extremely warm, here's your pick!
What is synthetic insulation?
Synthetic insulation is made from polyester fibres that mimic down clusters. It's designed to offer similar warmth, however, unlike down jackets, synthetic insulation doesn't lose its insulating properties when it gets wet. For the budget conscious, synthetic is your best bud – keeping you toasty, but at a lower cost! When it comes to maintenance, these pearlers are much easier to care for compared to their down counterparts. They can usually be machine washed without worrying about any special cleaning treatments, and don't require the same amount of delicate care to maintain loft and performance. If that wasn't good enough, these pearlers are also hypoallergenic, making them ideal for people sensitive to natural down.
There's no universal “best” insulation; it all comes down to your climate, lifestyle, and personal priorities. If you're dealing with cold, dry conditions where weight and packability matter, a high-quality down jacket is a dream. But if you're coming up against wet city winters or unpredictable weather, synthetic fill might be the way to go.
Whatever you choose, it's important to invest in a jacket that suits your lifestyle, looks good and most importantly, keeps you warm!