Atelier Olmsted uses Canadian eiderdown not only for its warmth and softness, but for its rare hydrophobic properties. Learn how this natural insulation repels water and keeps you warm in the coldest, wettest conditions.
Why Eiderdown’s Hydrophobic Nature Makes It the Ultimate Cold-Weather Luxury
Cold Weather. Warm Luxury.
As temperatures drop, the search for comfort becomes more than a seasonal necessity—it becomes a quest for quality. At Atelier Olmsted, we believe the answer lies in the remarkable natural engineering of one extraordinary bird: the Eider duck.
The secret behind the unparalleled performance of our outerwear lies in the hydrophobic properties of Canadian eiderdown—a material so rare and efficient, it redefines how we dress for winter.
What Does Hydrophobic Really Mean?
The term “hydrophobic” comes from the Greek words hydro (water) and phobos (fear), referring to materials that repel water rather than absorb it.
Eiderdown is naturally hydrophobic, thanks to a microscopic layer of oil secreted by the duck’s sebaceous glands. This oil coats the down feathers and allows water to bead up and roll off, instead of soaking through. This is the same mechanism that keeps eider ducks warm and dry in the icy waters of the North Atlantic.
Why This Matters in Outerwear
For outerwear designed to face unpredictable winter weather, hydrophobic insulation is essential. Here’s how eiderdown excels:
- Moisture Resistance: Stays drier longer, even in wet snow or misty conditions.
- Thermal Integrity: Keeps its loft and insulating power even when exposed to moisture—unlike many synthetic or untreated down fills.
- Long-Term Durability: Fewer breakdowns in the down structure over time, ensuring your garment maintains performance season after season.
At Atelier Olmsted, we use only 100% Canadian eiderdown, ethically sourced from wild nests, to ensure every jacket meets our high standards for warmth, performance, and sustainability.
Not Just Performance—It’s Pure Luxury
Beyond its technical advantages, eiderdown offers an unmatched tactile experience. It's featherlight, supremely soft, and adjusts to your body temperature—keeping you warm without overheating. And because it’s naturally hypoallergenic and breathable, it enhances comfort without compromise.
Water-Resistant Warmth That Lasts
Eiderdown’s hydrophobic nature is one of many reasons we consider it the gold standard of insulation. It performs in the harshest climates while feeling like a second skin of warmth. At Atelier Olmsted, we combine this miracle material with ethical practices and refined design to create outerwear that works—and wows.
Experience the water-repellent warmth of eiderdown.