| Source | Geese (larger clusters) |
| Fill power | Can reach the highest (800–900+) |
| Vs duck (equal FP) | Performs similarly |
| Cost | Usually pricier than duck down |
Goose down is down sourced from geese, traditionally regarded as premium because geese are larger birds that produce bigger down clusters, which can reach the highest fill powers (often 800–900+). At equal fill power, goose and duck down perform similarly, but the very highest-loft, lightest gear typically uses goose down, usually at a higher price.
Goose vs duck
A type of down insulation rated by fill power; the more affordable, equally capable option at a given FP is duck down.
Frequently asked questions
What is goose down?
Goose down is the fluffy under-plumage harvested from geese, used as a premium insulating fill in jackets and sleeping bags. Because geese are larger birds, they tend to produce larger, loftier down clusters, which is why the highest fill-power down on the market is usually goose down.
Is goose down better than duck down?
At the same fill power, goose and duck down insulate about the same. Goose down's reputation comes from its availability in the very highest fill powers and a sometimes-cleaner scent. For most gear, the fill power and fill weight matter more than whether it's goose or duck; goose simply dominates the top end.
When is goose down worth the extra cost?
When you want the absolute best warmth-for-weight and packability — ultralight high-loft jackets and expedition sleeping bags often use 850–900 fill-power goose down. For everyday warmth, high-quality duck down at a given fill power delivers nearly identical performance for less money.
Sources
- Down quality — The Mountaineers
- Insulation guide — American Hiking Society