When talking about apparel, fashion, and comfort, many people will consider the fabric material. Among the fantastic and famous products, you can see how kapok fiber gain more attention lately. It is not only from its organic and natural source, but also its good thermal insulation. It is even considered on par with a down feather, but how good is it?

As Good As Down Feather

One of the famous insulation materials is goose down. It is said that using animal feathers can increase more than 6,6% body temperature. But, the current study also indicates the same percentage for kapok. It means that the material has the same heat-generating ability while also providing a better sustainable option for people. 

How Kapok Work As Thermal Insulation

How does the fiber offer such high heat generation? First, the structure of kapok with its hollow inside, slippery outside, and hypoallergenic properties help trap air. The unique structure of kapok also makes kapok lighter than cotton and more buoyancy. The waxy surface is also water repellent, thus exhibiting an exquisite performance in thermal properties.

Thermal insulation work by absorbing moisture away from your body. It prevents body temperature drop due to cold air. In the meantime, the natural shape of kapok fiber can trap heat in between its hollow inside. It helps rising temperature but also helps release moisture back to cool down your body. Its light and tight-packed ability also make it proper for jacket stuffing and linen material blend. 

The unique hollowed structure of kapok is the main reason it can trap air and increase warmth. Not only does it help trap air, but it also creates a nice body temperature regulation. The cavity will tarp heat, the moisture absorption spread, and turn the warmth of the surface effectively reach the skin. That is why it is on par with goose down in thermal insulation.