Eiderdown vs. Goose Down: The Atelier Olmsted Approach to Premium Warmth

Choosing the Right Insulation: Why It Matters

When it comes to high-performance outerwear, the choice of insulation is everything. It affects how warm you’ll stay, how light the garment feels, and how responsibly it was made. At Atelier Olmsted, we’ve chosen to work exclusively with Canadian eiderdown—a rare and exceptional material that outperforms even the finest goose down.

Let’s explore what makes eiderdown vs. goose down not just a technical comparison—but a reflection of values, craftsmanship, and luxury.

What Is Goose Down?

Goose down is the soft underlayer of feathers taken from geese, commonly used in mid-range to high-end outerwear and bedding. It’s known for its ability to trap heat and create loft, offering good insulation for its weight.

Availability: Widely available, sourced from both ethical and industrial suppliers

Warmth: High warmth-to-weight ratio

Durability: Long-lasting with proper care

Price: Varies by fill power and origin; generally more affordable than eiderdown

Goose down is a strong choice for general use, but it has limitations—especially in moisture resistance, long-term loft retention, and ethical transparency.

What Is Eiderdown?

Eiderdown comes from the nests of the Common Eider, a wild duck native to Canada and the Arctic. Unlike goose down, it is collected by hand after the nesting season, ensuring no harm to the birds.

Availability: Extremely limited and rare

Warmth: Unmatched insulation, naturally thermoregulating

Weight: Exceptionally lightweight and soft

Hypoallergenic: Naturally resistant to dust mites and allergens

Price: One of the most expensive natural fills in the world

Eiderdown’s unique structure allows it to interlock and trap more air with less material, giving it a superior warmth-to-weight ratio without bulk.

Atelier Olmsted’s Perspective: Why We Choose Eiderdown

At Atelier Olmsted, our goal isn’t to compete on quantity—but on quality, craftsmanship, and purpose. Here’s why we use 100% Canadian eiderdown in our outerwear:

Sustainability First: Our down is harvested ethically from wild nests in Quebec under strict environmental protections.

Unrivaled Warmth: Eiderdown adapts to your body temperature and keeps you warm in -30°C and beyond—without excess layers.

Lightness Without Compromise: Eiderdown coats are significantly lighter than comparable goose down pieces, yet warmer.

Longevity: With proper care, an Atelier Olmsted jacket can last decades—both as a garment and as an heirloom.

Exclusivity: Each jacket is handcrafted in limited quantities in Montreal, reflecting the rare nature of its insulation.

The Verdict: Eiderdown Is in a Class of Its Own

Goose down is an excellent insulator—but eiderdown is the ultimate expression of premium warmth. It’s not just about performance; it’s about how performance is achieved—with respect for wildlife, precision craftsmanship, and a commitment to lasting, sustainable design.

At Atelier Olmsted, we believe that warmth should not come at the cost of the planet—or style. That’s why we choose eiderdown. And once you wear it, you’ll understand why nothing else compares.

Ready to feel the difference?