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What is the difference between duck down and goose down?
What Is the Difference Between Duck Down and Goose Down?
A practical insulation guide for custom down jacket manufacturing
Duck down and goose down differ mainly in cluster size, fill power potential, softness, and cost. Goose down generally offers higher fill power and a softer hand feel, while duck down provides excellent warmth at a more cost-effective price. Both are widely used in high-quality custom down jackets manufactured at Ginwen.
Quick Comparison at a Glance
Key differences that matter in production and pricing| Aspect | Duck Down | Goose Down |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Fill Power | 600–750 FP | 700–900+ FP |
| Cluster Size | Medium | Larger |
| Warmth-to-Weight | High | Very High |
| Softness / Loft | Good | Excellent |
| Odor Control | Good (modern processing) | Excellent |
| Cost Level | More affordable | Premium |
| Best Use | Value-focused & mid–high warmth | Premium & extreme cold |
What Is Duck Down?
Cost-effective insulation for everyday winter jacketsDuck down comes from the soft under-feathers of ducks and is one of the most commonly used insulations in down jackets.
- Strong insulation performance for most winter climates
- Slightly smaller clusters than goose down
- Excellent value-to-performance ratio
- Stable and widely available supply
Duck down is widely used for urban winter jackets, fashion puffers, and everyday cold-weather outerwear.
What Is Goose Down?
Premium insulation for high-performance outerwearGoose down comes from geese and typically forms larger, more resilient clusters, allowing for higher fill power and superior loft.
- Higher warmth-to-weight ratio
- Excellent compressibility and loft recovery
- Softer and more luxurious hand feel
- Higher cost due to limited supply
Goose down is often selected for premium jackets, technical outerwear, and severe or extreme cold conditions.
Does Goose Down Always Perform Better?
Design matters more than insulation type aloneNot always. Overall performance depends on the complete insulation system, including:
- Fill power and total fill weight
- Baffle design and quilting accuracy
- Shell windproofing and construction quality
A well-engineered 700 FP duck down jacket can outperform a poorly designed goose down jacket.
Odor and Cleanliness Considerations
Modern processing standardsWith modern washing, sterilization, and deodorization processes, both duck down and goose down meet hygiene standards required for EU and US markets. Odor is no longer a deciding factor when materials are properly sourced.
Which Should You Choose for Your Brand?
Matching insulation to positioningDuck down is ideal if your brand prioritizes competitive pricing, reliable warmth, and broad consumer appeal.
Goose down is better suited for premium positioning, ultra-light warmth, and high-end or extreme-cold applications.
Many brands use both, selecting insulation types by style, market tier, or target climate.
Quality Control & Options We Support
Managed under structured manufacturing systems- Duck down and goose down options
- Specified fill power and fill weight control
- Water-resistant down options (if required)
- Recycled down alternatives
- ISO 9001–based quality control and traceability
- Third-party testing upon request
Minimum order quantity: 60 pieces per style
Final Answer
Duck down offers excellent warmth and cost efficiency, while goose down provides higher fill power and premium softness. The right choice depends on your target warmth level, budget, and brand positioning—not simply the down type itself.