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Down Origins by Species
Not all down is created equal. The species it comes from affects warmth, loft, durability, and cost. Whether you’re layering for alpine conditions or upgrading your bedding, here’s what to know.
Duck Down - Anas platyrhynchos domesticus
The most common and budget-friendly. Clusters are smaller and less structured than Muscovy Ducks or goose, so it takes more fill to achieve the same warmth. Can carry a slight odor due to higher oil content and diet. Typically around 550–700 fill power. Great for casual jackets, mid-layer puffies, and comforters.
Muscovy Duck Down - Cairina moschata domesticus
Frequently underrated. Muscovy down isn’t just "better than regular duck" it competes head-to-head with, and often outperforms, goose down. Larger, more mature clusters regularly hit 900+ fill power, with barbed structures that trap air efficiently and bounce back fast after compression. Structurally closer to eider than goose in how the plumes tangle and hold loft. Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, breathable, and highly packable. Performs like high-end goose down at a more accessible price point.
Goose Down - Anser anser domesticus
Historically, the premium baseline. Geese produce bigger down clusters thanks to their size and colder habitats. That means better loft (up to 950 FP), more efficient insulation, and stronger resilience over time. Fewer ounces needed for the same warmth. It breathes well, packs down small, and lasts longer, just expect to pay more. Often used in high-end technical and luxury gear.
Eiderdown (Wild) - Somateria mollissima
The unicorn of down. Harvested by hand from wild eider nests (after hatching), in Iceland. Virtually weightless, yet incredibly insulating. The fibers cling naturally, forming a self-binding web that regulates temperature and resists compression like nothing else. Fill power can exceed 950, but FP doesn’t fully capture its performance. Astronomically expensive and usually reserved for heirloom bedding or ultra-premium arctic gear.
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