Outdoor Blog

What Is Down Fill Power & Why Does it Matter?

Published

4 years ago

May 20, 2021

Close up of red down jacket, winter fashion outfit

If you’ve ever bought outerwear made from down or other goose down products for winter weather camping, hiking, or snow sports, you’ve probably seen fill power ratings on the labeling.

What is down fill power though? And does it matter for keeping you warm? Read on to learn all about down fill power before you start the search for the best down jacket on the market. While fill power doesn’t measure warmth directly, it is an important factor in understanding how down garments work.

What fill power measures is the quality and efficiency of the down insulation. So it tells you how much down is required to capture heat. Together with the amount of down used in the garment, you can use this to figure out how warm it will be.

production of down duvets work with feather products light white fluff keeps in hands view from sides

You can make a down comforter in an afternoon with basic sewing skills.

Fill Power Ratings

If you’re on the hunt for the warmest outdoor wear you can find, understanding fill power is a big help. And let’s be honest, almost everyone is looking for as much warmth as they can get when getting ready for a winter hiking or camping trip. So let’s dig into fill power. Fill power, as mentioned above, measures down quality. More specifically, fill power measures the cubic inches of loft produced by an ounce of down.

Loft, in this case, refers to how “fluffy” the down is, or how much space it takes up. This is directly related to the amount of heat the down can capture. So a higher quality down with more “loft” will have a higher fill power and capture heat more efficiently. A lower quality down will have less “loft” and a lower fill power.

With all this in mind, it starts to become clear what fill power is all about: efficiency. A higher fill power means a down jacket can be lighter and easier to store while being just as warm. So a 500 fill power jacket is not necessarily less warm than a 900 fill power jacket, it’s just that a jacket with a low fill power will need to be much bulkier to provide the same amount of warmth.

What’s So Special About Goose Down

This all makes a bit more sense when you consider the mechanics of how goose down keeps you warm. There’s a reason, after all, that goose down is the insulator of choice for so many outdoor brands. The way that goose down works to keep you warm is by trapping pockets of warm air close to your body in between the feathers. The air trapped in these little down clusters keeps you warm.

This is the same way down keeps a goose warm and is the same mechanism that most synthetic insulation aims to imitate. While some of those synthetic alternatives can be better for wet weather or special applications, goose down remains one of the warmest, lightest, and most compressible options for cold weather.

Now in most down fills, there’s a variation in the size of the feathers and how many of them are truly down versus slightly larger and bulkier feathers. Higher quality down is going to have very small/fine feathers and very few non-down feathers in the mix. So high quality down can keep you very warm and is also quite soft to the touch.

This also depends somewhat on where the down was taken from. Goose down occurs in two basic varieties: natal down and body down. Some other birds also produce “powder down” which forms from the breakdown of larger feathers. With goose down, the important thing to know is that body down, the under plumage of mature geese, is generally considered to be higher quality than natal down, or down from goslings that haven’t matured yet.

Kinds of Down

Alternatives like duck down can be just as effective though, and Eider Duck down is even considered to be the finest down option of all. This is very expensive though and the duck is endangered in many places. So goose down remains the most popular option on the market as it provides almost the same level of quality.

Other types of duck down are also used, but some have a bit of a “gamey” smell compared to the fresher smell of cleaned goose down. Most goose down is referred to as “white” goose down, but the color of goose down doesn’t actually matter that much.

While the soft, fine down used for insulation is white most of the time, it can turn gray or brown in the summer months. It may not look as nice as white down, but it works just as well if it’s still from the downy under-layer of feathers.

The Down Fill Power Test

Now that we’ve looked at what fill power means and how it indicates the quality of goose down, we can look at the full fill power range available as well as how down’s fill power number is determined. As we now know, high fill power indicates higher quality down that provides more heat capture per gram of down. So let’s look at how this number is determined.

A higher fill power indicates more down clusters and larger clusters per gram. These larger clusters trap more warm air, making it easier to keep toasty. So how do you find out how many clusters there are and how much air is trapped? In a fill power test, goose down is placed in a plexiglass cylinder and then compressed until all the air is removed. The more air is captured, the less space the down will take up when compressed.

So better quality down is more compressible than lower quality goose down and will take up less space after a down fill power test. In a standard down fill power test, 30 grams of down is used in the compression, and environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and other influences must be accounted for. Fill power numbers range from 550 to over 800, and anything over 650 is considered good quality, with fills over 800 being the highest quality.

What Is Fill Weight?

Once the fill power of the down is determined, there’s one other measurement to consider: fill weight. With both fill power and fill weight in mind, you can figure out exactly how warm, light and compressible a down garment will be.

We already know that higher fill power indicates greater efficiency and quality of the down, but what is fill weight? It’s pretty simple, this is just the weight of the down used in ounces. So a jacket with 100 grams of 450-fill-power down should be about the same warmth as a 900-fill-power jacket with 50 grams of down.

Of course, this all depends a bit on how the down is distributed as well. Good quality down products will use baffles to distribute the down evenly and prevent it from bunching up at certain points. So, while fill weight and fill power are important considerations in finding the right down jacket for your needs, there’s a lot more to consider than just this!

Finding the Right Down Jacket

Finding the right down jacket for your next backpacking trip, camping expedition or day hike depends a lot on the amount of warmth you need. The best down jacket for climbers in very cold and unforgiving regions may need to aim for the maximum loft and warmth they can get. If you don’t need so much warmth though, a lighter option will be more comfortable.

So you should balance warmth with weight and compressibility to fit your specific needs. You should also consider how long you’ll be out, how often you plan to use the jacket, and what other outerwear you’re going to have on or available.

One final thing to keep in mind is the weather. Down gets heavy and pretty useless when it’s wet. This is one reason some people prefer synthetic insulation instead. But there are lots of ways to approach the problem.

Some just use a waterproof shell to protect a down parka underneath, and really layering garments like this is the best way to stay warm and dry. It can be tempting to look for the one jacket that does everything, but nothing beats effective layering. After all, there’s very little that can beat the warmth-to-weight ratio of down insulation.

The Responsible Down Standard

Down isn’t perfect though. Like any other product, there are more and less ethical ways to buy down products. So in addition to looking out for fill weight, fill power, and how the baffles are laid out, you should check your down products for Responsible Down Standard certification. This certification means that the down used did not come from animals subjected to unnecessary harm or cruelty.

Presented by the Textile Exchange, a global nonprofit for standards in the fibers and materials industry, this certification ensures that ducks, geese, and other down-providing animals are treated humanely. The group works with farmers, producers, and retailers to encourage the humane treatment of animals while producing down goods and to promote the welfare of down-producing animals.

This certification has gained traction in part as a response to the prevalence of live-plucking and other inhumane practices reported by watchdogs in the industry. This issue is complicated by the fact that some geese and ducks are not used for just one product. So some geese are used to produce multiple products and it can be difficult to track which were used for what.

The Responsible Down Standard certification has taken some of the guesswork out for consumers, however. So if you’re concerned about animal well-being and want to make sure the down your purchase was ethically produced, just look out for this certification.

There are other certifications you might want to look into for sustainability or labor practices, but at least on the sustainability front, down is often a much better option than the synthetic insulators offered as an alternative.

More About Down: Comforters, Sleeping Bags, and Duvets

And goose down is great for more than just jackets! In fact, some of the best cold-weather sleeping bags, duvets, comforters, and other products use down to provide warmth without too much weight. Just like with outerwear, down sleeping bags and bedding have the advantage of compressing quite a lot to take up little space in your pack.

In fact, some of the highest quality winter sleeping systems out there take up such a minuscule amount of space that they’ve allowed today’s ultralight backpackers and trekkers to go longer, farther, and faster than ever before. At the center of this technology, however, is the tried and true standard of winter wear: goose down.

In addition to being considered the best option for outerwear, goose down is used in bedding so often because it can be very comfortable and light. In fact, one of the most common uses of high fill-power goose down is to make comforters that are warm without being too heavy.

Of course, the alternative is also popular too: comforters with a low fill power that can feel heavy without being too warm. The takeaway is that there’s a lot that can down with goose down, especially when you understand fill power ratings.

Alternatives to Goose Down

Of course, you’ll also find a lot of synthetic insulation options for outerwear, sleeping bags, and more when you walk into a big camping chain like REI or Cabela’s. These synthetic options often promise to be lighter and sturdier than goose down, but there are few that really beat out the power of down when it comes to ultralight insulation.

Many of these synthetic fills are made of polyester and cotton blends. While these do perform a bit better in wet weather than down, traditional down fills match and even exceed synthetic blends in lightness, compression, and warmth. Plus, down can be produced much more sustainably, and doesn’t rely on chemical processes that can be harmful to the environment.

Hiker wearing hiking backpack and hardshell jacket on hike in forest.

Layering a down garment with a hardshell jacket is a great way to deal with heavy rain.

What to Do About Rain?

If you’re worried about rain or snow, you can combine a down garment with a waterproof windbreaker or even a hardshell jacket to get more protection from the weather. One advantage of layering up and using multiple garments for staying warm is that you can be ready for any weather!

If it warms up a bit, you can go down to just the shell, and if it’s dry, you might only need your parka. All-in-one approaches to outerwear leave you stuck with everything on at once, which can be heavy and uncomfortable. The best option for a great winter trip is to go with a real goose down parka and combine it with a waterproof outer layer.

Final Verdict

So, for many, the intersection of effectiveness, sustainability, and comfort makes down a clear winner for staying warm on a winter camping trip. After all, down is biodegradable and so won’t add to the pile-up of synthetic materials in landfills across the world.

It’s also really really good at keeping you warm! And with a better understanding of fill power, fill weight, and how down is classified, you should be set to get the most out of your next down insulated piece of outerwear.

Bonus video: Check out this video of a down fill-power test in action!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

8 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

9 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

11 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.