Duck Down vs. Goose Down — What's the Difference?

Duck down is the soft undercoat feathers found beneath the tougher exterior feathers of ducks, providing effective insulation and warmth. It's widely available and tends to be more cost-effective than goose down. On the other hand, goose down, coming from geese, has larger down clusters, resulting in higher fill power, which means it can trap more air and thus provide better insulation and warmth.

One of the main differences between duck and goose down is the odor. Duck down can sometimes have a noticeable odor, especially when wet, due to the ducks' diet. Goose down is generally less prone to odors, making it more appealing for bedding and apparel where cleanliness and freshness are priorities.

In terms of fill power, which measures the loftiness of down and its ability to trap heat, goose down typically offers a higher fill power than duck down. This higher fill power not only provides better insulation but also makes goose down products more lightweight and compressible, ideal for high-end bedding and outdoor gear.

Allergy concerns are another consideration. While both types of down are cleaned before use, goose down is often subjected to more rigorous cleaning processes due to its higher value. This can make goose down slightly less likely to trigger allergies, although differences are minimal for those with severe allergies.

The price point is a significant factor for many consumers. Duck down, being more abundant and easier to source, is generally less expensive than goose down. Goose down's superior warmth, loftiness, and luxury status contribute to its higher cost, making it a premium option for those willing to invest in top-quality down products.