When it comes down to insulation fills, whether looking at sleeping bags or jackets, you’ll likely come across both down and synthetic fills. When deciding which way to go, there are a few things to consider:
Down
Down offers one of the best warmth to weight ratios out there. This means it takes less to keep you as warm. Down is broken down into loft ratings. The higher the number, the better quality of down. If your looking at an 800 fill down, it will be far lighter weight than a 500 fill down piece of equal warmth. Down is also more packable than other insulations out there.
As with all gear, there are cons. For one, it usually is pricier than synthetic counterparts. You also have to ensure that your down is well protected in wetter weather. Many manufacturers take this into account and construct the jacket or sleeping bag to protect the down, but if your down insulation still gets wet, it looses its ability to keep you warm. At that point you’re out of luck, at least for awhile, because it also is not a very quick drying insulation.
Synthetic
Synthetics are a more common insulation out there. Synthetics include everything from Arc’Teryx Men’s Atom LT Jacket to The North Face Denali to Mountain Hardwear’s Lamina 20. While it still hasn’t reached the warmth to weight of down, synthetics have come a long way. You don’t have to be as concerned with keeping synthetics perfectly dry. They will still provide warmth even when wet.
One of the main downsides to synthetics is that they are bulkier than other options out there. For backpackers especially, this is key.
When you come into the store, don’t hesitate to ask any questions. Our sales staff is very knowledgeable about the products we carry. It’s also the perfect time to shop, we’re stocked up on winter gear for the upcoming months.
Good Sports Outdoor Outfitters 
Leave a Reply