FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is down?

Down consists of clusters of 3 dimentional filaments growing from a quill point without a quill shaft. It looks much like a ripe dandelion pod. Down is the light, fluffy undercoating waterfowl have to keep warm.

What is feather?

Feathers, the principle covering of birds, have a flat construction. It has a tubular quill shaft from one end to the other, with a series of fibers joining together into a flat structure on each side of the shaft.

What is the difference?

Down is not a young or small feather and it will never develop into one. A down cluster has a quill point, but no quill shaft, so it is far more resilient than feather. In spite of being lighter than a feather, it is three-dimensional rather than two, therefore down has more loft or filling power. Down is grown for warmth. Feathers are flat and two dimensional, and are grown for flying while smaller feathers are for protection. We use smaller feathers for our pillows, which in turn provide a smaller, softer, more comfortable quill.

How can down be so light, yet insulate so well?

Down warms without weight, Because of its three dimensional structure and ability to "loft" each down cluster traps more air than its weight. Every ounce of quality down has about 2 million fluffy filaments that interlock and overlap to provide a protective layer of air that keeps warmth in and cold out. It is very resilient so you can scrunch it up or flatten it out, and then give it a good shake to fluff it back to the form that keeps you cozy and warm.