What types of down filling are available?
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- Issue Time
- Jan 14,2026
What Types of Down Filling Are Available?
A clear insulation overview for custom down jacket manufacturing
Custom down jackets can be filled with duck down, goose down, recycled down, water-resistant treated down, or synthetic eco-friendly insulation. Each option differs in warmth, weight, sustainability, wet-weather performance, and cost, and can be selected to match your brand’s positioning at Ginwen.
Main Types of Down & Insulation Fillings
Understanding performance, cost, and use cases1. Duck Down
Duck down is the soft under-feather from ducks and is widely used in mid- to high-quality down jackets.
- Typical fill power: 600–750 FP
- Excellent warmth-to-cost ratio
- Stable global supply
- Suitable for most winter conditions
Best for fashion brands, urban winter jackets, and value-focused collections.
2. Goose Down
Goose down comes from geese and forms larger down clusters, allowing higher loft.
- Typical fill power: 700–900+ FP
- Superior warmth-to-weight ratio
- Softer hand feel
- Premium pricing
Best for high-end fashion, technical outerwear, and severe cold climates.
3. Recycled Down
Recycled down is reclaimed from post-consumer products and reprocessed to restore loft and hygiene.
- Lower environmental impact
- Comparable warmth to conventional down (depending on FP)
- Supports sustainability storytelling
- Traceability available upon request
Best for eco-conscious brands and sustainable collections.
4. Water-Resistant Down (Optional Treatment)
Water-resistant down is treated with a hydrophobic finish to improve moisture resistance.
- Retains loft better in damp conditions
- Faster drying than untreated down
- Slight cost premium
Best for urban rain/snow climates and functional outerwear.
5. Synthetic / Eco-Friendly Fill
Synthetic insulation is a man-made alternative, often produced from recycled polyester fibers.
- Vegan and animal-free
- Performs well when wet
- Consistent loft and easy care
- Generally heavier than down for the same warmth
Best for rain-prone regions, vegan lines, and entry-price jackets.
Comparison Overview
Performance, sustainability, and cost| Filling Type | Warmth-to-Weight | Wet Performance | Sustainability | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duck Down | High | Medium | Medium | $$ |
| Goose Down | Very High | Medium | Medium | $$$ |
| Recycled Down | High | Medium | High | $$–$$$ |
| Water-Resistant Down | High | Better | Medium | $$–$$$ |
| Synthetic Eco-Fill | Medium–High | High | High | $–$$ |
Final warmth depends on fill power, fill weight, and construction—not on filling type alone.
How to Choose the Right Filling for Your Brand
Strategic insulation selection- Target temperature range (mild winter vs. extreme cold)
- Price positioning (entry, mid, premium)
- Market climate (dry cold vs. wet winter)
- Sustainability goals (recycled or vegan)
- Design intent (lightweight vs. heavy insulation)
We help brands define these specifications clearly before sampling.
Quality Control for Down Filling
Managed under structured production systems- Incoming material verification
- Precise fill-weight control during production
- Quilting alignment and migration checks
- Final inspection before shipment
- Optional third-party testing for EU/US buyers
Minimum order quantity: 60 pieces per style
Final Answer
Custom down jackets can use duck down, goose down, recycled down, water-resistant treated down, or synthetic eco-fill. The best option depends on warmth requirements, sustainability goals, budget, and intended use.