Robson Canadian 70/30 Duvet

See our detailed guide here.

Feathers are flat and two dimensional, with a heavy spine down the center. They are not good at insulating as they cannot trap air. However, they are good at providing support and are often used in pillows. 

In comparison, down is a collection of three dimensional clusters that are able to trap air. A thick layer of trapped air is what insulates a sleeper against the colder outside air. Goose down has larger, puffier down clusters than duck down, making it more efficient at trapping your body heat. In addition, the larger clusters maintain their puffiness (known as loft) better over time. Because of these qualities, goose down is considered higher value than duck down and is often used in premium clothing, outdoor gear and duvets. Duck down remains an excellent and affordable alternative to goose down and most people cannot easily tell the difference between the two. Ultimately, the choice between them comes down to affordability and personal preference.

Loft, a.k.a. Fill power is a measure of the "fluffiness" of a down product.

Down (or any insulation) provides warmth by trapping a layer of air that separates the cold side from the warm side. A thicker layer of trapped air gives more insulation.

The higher the loft, the more insulating air pockets the down has, meaning it will keep you warm at night. While this air layer keeps you warm, it also allows for greater breathability, ensuring a peaceful nights sleep.

Down and feathers are a natural product and all things natural degrade over time.  However, a good down duvet that has been properly cared for should last you 10-20 years; a good pillow should last you 5 years. Pillows don't last as long because of the oils in human hair and that they are compressed during sleep, while a duvet is not. To increase the longevity of your products you should use protectors and covers that you wash regularly.

Synthetic duvets and pillows do not last as long, as the manmade fibres will compress over time and, unlike down, they do not regain their loft through simply fluffing of the product. A synthetic duvet should be expected to provide reasonable comfort for 5 years while a synthetic pillow should last up to 2 years.