Puffer Jackets: Understanding the Insulation Technology Used
When the cold weather starts creeping in, people reach for their puffer jackets to keep warm. But have you ever wondered what kind of insulation is used inside these jackets? Let’s take a closer look at the technology that keeps us toasty in winter.
Down Insulation: The Classic Fill
The classic insulation material used in puffer jackets is down. This refers to the soft, fluffy clusters found under the feathers of birds like ducks and geese. Down is an excellent insulator, as the clusters trap pockets of air that retain warmth. It is also lightweight and compressible, perfect for stuffing into a jacket. While down jackets are incredibly warm, they do lose effectiveness when wet, and are difficult to dry out.
Synthetic Insulation: An Alternative to Down
Synthetic insulation, made from polyester fibers, was invented as a response to the limitations of down. Synthetic jackets are not as warm as down jackets but perform better in wet conditions. Super-sized clusters of fibers closely mimic natural down, providing warmth and compressibility. What’s more, synthetic insulation is hypoallergenic and takes less time to dry.
Hybrid Insulation: Combining the Best of Both Worlds
Hybrid insulation jackets seek to combine the strengths of down and synthetic insulation. By doing so, they aim to create a versatile jacket suitable for a range of outdoor situations. With a hybrid jacket, the warmth and compressibility of down are combined with the water-resistant properties of synthetic insulation. This technology is used by many outdoor clothing companies,North Face being a well-known brand that incorporates it into their products.
Which Insulation Should You Choose?
Ultimately, selecting the right insulation type is dependent on your intended use. If you are looking for a jacket that will keep you warm in dry conditions, consider down insulation. If instead, you will face wet weather, synthetic insulation is a better alternative. However, if you have both dry and wet conditions to contend with, a hybrid jacket is your best bet.
