Down vs Synthetic Insulation | Which do you need?

Choosing between Down & Synthetic Insulation can be complicated. Down is known for its warmth while being very lightweight, but synthetic insulation boasts many advantages when the weather is more unpredictable. This blog will guide you through the pros and cons of down and synthetic insulation, helping you choose the right jacket.

Whether you need a belay jacket you can hunker down in, or a warm, lightweight jacket that lives at the bottom of your bag, an insulated jacket will be at the top of every climber, mountaineer, or hiker's packing list.

How does insulation keep you warm?

Insulation works by trapping air in minuscule pockets created by its lofty design. These air pockets capture body heat and retain it, creating a warm layer of air that keeps you warm. Different types of insulation hold different characteristics, and performance will differ depending on conditions.

Should I get a Down or a Synthetic Jacket?

You must consider your needs and the weather conditions you will be in when choosing an insulated jacket.

Down is synonymous with insulation. It has a superb warmth-to-weight ratio and great packability. But, when the weather turns, and your down jacket starts to get wet, it will start to be less effective. 

On the other hand, synthetic insulation continues to perform even when wet, making it a great choice for unpredictable weather conditions. However, it does tend to be a little heavier and larger to pack compared to a comparable down jacket. 

If you are heading out into cold but dry conditions or high altitude peaks, you should consider a down jacket for its compressibility and high warmth-to-weight ratio. If you are heading out into wet or unpredictable weather conditions, such as Scottish Winter, you should consider a synthetic jacket for its capability to retain heat even whilst wet.

Pros & Cons of Down & Synthetic Insulation

Which do you need for Scottish Winter?

In Scotland, bad weather still means heading out for a day of climbing. It's not uncommon to find yourself at a beleu for multiple hours in snow that is much more like rain, or walking into the route in light drizzle or heavy rain. Due to the unpredictable weather, we would recommend synthetic insulation when heading out in Scotland as it will retain almost all of its insulating capability when wet, dries far faster and will keep you warm in the face of wind, rain, and snow.

Check out our blog on choosing the right belay jacket for Scotland, click here.

Choosing the right insulated jacket is just as important as anything else on the packing list. With the right jacket, even the harshest of conditions can be negated, leaving valuable energy for where it is needed most.