KitBuilder
Back to Glossary
camping

Down vs Synthetic

What is Down vs Synthetic?

Down vs Synthetic refers to the two main types of insulation used in sleeping bags, jackets, and other outdoor gear. Down insulation comes from duck or goose feathers and offers superior warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility, making it ideal for ultralight backpacking, but loses insulating properties when wet. Synthetic insulation is made from polyester fibers that retain warmth even when damp, dry faster, and cost less, making it better for wet conditions and budget-conscious campers, though it's heavier and bulkier than down.

Related Terms

Hydrophobic Down

Hydrophobic down is specially treated down insulation that has been coated with a water-repellent treatment to resist moisture absorption. This treatment allows the down to maintain its loft and insulating properties even when exposed to humidity or light moisture, unlike untreated down which clumps and loses insulation when wet. It's commonly used in sleeping bags, jackets, and other outdoor gear where maintaining warmth in damp conditions is critical for camper safety and comfort.