Down insulation is generally warmer than synthetic insulation because down has a higher warmth-to-weight ratio and better insulating properties.
Both synthetic and down bags have very different qualities, strengths and weaknesses. Synthetic bags are less expensive to manufacture and therefore are normally cheaper to buy. When wet they are also less likely to lose their vital insulation properties, unlike down sleeping bags. Down bags are generally much warmer than their synthetic counterparts but great care must be taken to look after them. When they get wet they will lose a lot of their insulation properties. It is recommended to take them to a specialist cleaner rather than wash them in your machine. Often more expensive than synthetic bags, they also last a lot longer. Down works by the feathers building on the insulating layers being warmed by body heat. Both have differing qualities and can been seen here - http://www.outdoorleisure101.com/sleeping-bag-reviews
Cotton is generally not warmer than acrylic. While cotton is breathable and suitable for warmer weather, acrylic is a synthetic fiber designed to provide more insulation and retain heat. As a result, acrylic tends to be warmer, making it a popular choice for colder climates and winter clothing. However, individual comfort can vary based on personal preference and the specific use case.
There are three main types of insulation used in jackets: down, synthetic, and fleece. Down insulation, made from duck or goose feathers, provides excellent warmth and is lightweight, but loses its insulating properties when wet. Synthetic insulation, made from polyester fibers, is more water-resistant and retains warmth when wet, but is usually heavier and less compressible than down. Fleece insulation, made from synthetic fibers, provides good warmth and breathability, but is less effective in wet conditions. The type of insulation used in a jacket affects its warmth, weight, breathability, and performance in different weather conditions.
Acrylic is generally warmer than wool because it is a synthetic material that traps heat more effectively.
Down traps a lot of air, and air is a good insulator.
A down sleeping bag is admittedly warmer but if you are going to be camping in conditions where your bag is exposed to water, it is definitely a better idea to buy a synthetic sleeping bag. This is a lot more waterproof and will dry a lot quicker than the down. It also compacts a lot better than down and it definitely lighter.
A doona, or duvet, provides better insulation than a sheet because it is filled with materials like down, feathers, or synthetic fibers that trap air and retain body heat. This layer of trapped air acts as a thermal barrier, reducing heat loss during the night. In contrast, a sheet is typically much thinner and does not offer the same level of insulation, making it less effective for warmth.
700 fill power down refers to the quality and loftiness of the down feathers used in a jacket. The higher the fill power number, the better the insulation and warmth retention of the jacket. A jacket with 700 fill power down will be warmer and more insulating than a jacket with a lower fill power.
Synthetic insulated jackets offer lightweight warmth, quick-drying properties, and insulation even when wet. They are also more affordable and easier to care for than down jackets.
Yes, cashmere is generally warmer than polyester. Cashmere is a natural fiber that provides excellent insulation due to its fine, soft fibers, which trap heat effectively. In contrast, while polyester can offer some warmth, it is primarily a synthetic fabric that doesn't retain heat as well as cashmere. Thus, for warmth and comfort, cashmere is the superior choice.
Alpaca socks are generally warmer than wool socks because alpaca fibers are hollow, providing better insulation and trapping more heat.
There are comforters that are made with synthetic down.