There is a huge variety of jackets with different fillings on our market, but which one is the best?
First, let’s define the materials used as jacket fillings. They fall into two categories: natural and synthetic. Modern jacket models are thin and dense, breathable, and keep the body warm in different outdoor temperatures. The filling of these jackets can be “natural” such as down, duck or goose feathers, or made from synthetic materials.
Of course, it’s also possible to find jackets with mixed fillings. Many manufacturers combine synthetic fibers or wool with real down. The different ratios of down and feathers also affect the insulation properties of the material.
In fact, it’s very easy to figure out what material your newly purchased jacket is filled with. If it’s soft to the touch, it’s almost certainly down. If it feels rough, it’s probably synthetic down imitation.
If a jacket is filled with real down, it should definitely not feel heavy. It should be able to compress easily.
The technology behind synthetic materials has advanced so much that it meets all the requirements for insulation and body ventilation. Nevertheless, clothing with natural insulation still remains the best choice.
However, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to guarantee the quality of natural down today: the rapid pace of poultry farming means that down often doesn’t have time to develop its natural properties. This leads to a growing demand for technologies that improve down quality through the addition of various composite materials related to its structure. For example, down treated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) – a stable water-repellent coating that eliminates its main disadvantage – fear of water (We all know that wet clothes DO NOT keep us warm!).
If you’re really looking for a jacket with natural filling, keep in mind that it’s more expensive compared to synthetic ones. Yes, synthetic jackets are also suitable for milder days, but in truly cold weather, nothing will keep you warm like a jacket filled with natural down.
What are the differences between natural and synthetic filling?
| Conditions | Down | Synthetic |
|---|---|---|
| Dry, cold climate (-10°C to -25°C) | ✅ Excellent choice | ❌ Insulation weakens |
| Humid winter or rain (0°C to -5°C) | ❌ Loses insulation when wet | ✅ Suitable even when wet |
| Intensive activity – sports, hiking | ⚠️ May cause overheating | ✅ Better breathability |
| Urban conditions | ✅ Luxurious appearance | ✅ Comfortable and affordable |
1. Down jackets are difficult to clean and get wet very easily. Be prepared that when you buy a down jacket, it will require special care.
2. Modern synthetic fillings for jackets offer higher quality performance. They are also low in density and weight, while remaining moisture-resistant. An example of such filling is holofiber. Jackets with it can be found in the mid-price range.
What to consider before buying a jacket?
1. If you have allergies, it’s best to look for hypoallergenic synthetic materials.
2. Consider the temperature of the environment where you’ll be wearing the jacket.
3. The product's price, of course.
4. Comfort.
5. Whether you will take care of your jacket so you can use it for more than one season.
How to choose in the store?
Generally, the thicker the jacket, the warmer it is.
If the filling contains more than 30% feathers, it feels rough to the touch. Almost all high-quality down jackets contain at least 70% down and only 30% feathers. In practice, there are hardly any products that are 100% down — and if there are, they are very expensive.
Regardless of whether the jacket is down or synthetic, it's best to choose one with a zipper. Jackets with buttons do not fit snugly and let in cold air.
Another important point is comfort. To make sure the jacket isn’t tight around your arms or back, it’s a good idea to try it on before buying.
If you buy a jacket that is too small, not only do you risk your comfort, but you also risk damaging the jacket prematurely, as the strain on the zipper and seams can cause tears that may ruin your new coat.
➤ Down jacket:
- Wash at low temperatures (30°C maximum) using a special down detergent (e.g. Nikwax Down Wash).
- Tumble drying is allowed, but with special dryer balls – to prevent the filling from clumping.
- This type of jacket needs space, so make sure to store it loosely in your closet, not compressed.
➤ Synthetic jacket:
- No special washing instructions. It can be washed with regular liquid detergent along with other clothes.
- Can be air-dried or machine-dried. It dries quickly and there’s little risk of damage.
Under the right conditions, down retains heat excellently, but synthetic performs better in wet weather.
Down jackets should be washed gently at low spin speeds, using a special detergent, and dried with dryer balls to maintain the loft of the down.
Yes – synthetic jackets contain no animal products and are often labeled as vegan-friendly.
Down jackets are usually more expensive but last longer, while synthetic ones are more affordable and don’t require special care.
It all depends on your needs and environment. Choose down for cold and dry climates, and synthetic for wet conditions, sports, or an active lifestyle.