Please resize your window or rotate your device.

An icon demonstrating the rotation of a phone from landscape mode to portrait mode

Lightweight, insulating fibres from bird plumage

about
Down and Feathers

Down and feathers provide excellent insulation and warmth while being lightweight, but sourcing often does not prioritise ethical, cruelty-free standards

Down is the soft layer of feathers found beneath the tougher exterior feathers of ducks and geese, known for its excellent insulation in bedding and outerwear.

Although down and feathers are biodegradable and durable, their sourcing can involve live-plucking, a painful and distressing practice for birds. Some down is gathered post-slaughter, but traceability is often unclear.

Additionally, the down sourced from birds used in foie gras production raises ethical concerns due to force-feeding practices.

Certifications such as the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) offer traceability and guarantee that down is not sourced from live-plucked or force-fed birds.

Discover how we can help your team select better materials

Material sourcing and treatments often carry hidden social, environmental, and animal welfare risks. We help brands understand what they're using, and what it means.

Discover how we can unify your design, product and sourcing teams with material guidance tailored to your needs.

No items found.