https://sierramadreresearch.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/4404498197389-What-are-the-differences-advantages-between-a-Down-and-a-Synthetic-

https://sierramadreresearch.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/4404498197389-What-are-the-differences-advantages-between-a-Down-and-a-Synthetic-

Unlike Down, Synthetic insulation is water-resistant and will still provide some warmth if it gets wet. Synthetic insulation also dries much faster than down.

Down insulates by trapping air and is prized for being light, easy to compress, long-lasting and breathable.

DOWN

Pros:

  • Higher warmth-to-weight ratio than synthetic insulation
  • Very compressible
  • Very durable; with proper care, a down sleeping bag or jacket can last for decades.

Cons:

  • Loses insulating power when it gets wet and takes a long time to dry
  • Cleaning down requires special care
  • Not hypoallergenic (rarely an issue)
  • More expensive than synthetics

SYNTHETIC

Pros:

  • Very water-resistant and continues to insulate even when wet
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Less expensive than down

Cons:

  • Heavier and bulkier than down insulation
  • Offers less warmth for its weight than down
  • Less durable than down; insulating power gets reduced each time the bag is stuffed into a stuff sack