AYAQ insulated jackets—whether featuring the powerful insulation of ULTAR, the exceptional mobility of BALTORO, or the innovative system of FORNO—are engineered to deliver consistent warmth, effective moisture management, and high mechanical durability. Their performance depends as much on material quality as on proper care. Correct maintenance preserves fiber loft, insulation distribution, and garment breathability.
1. Why properly maintain a down jacket?
A down jacket’s insulation relies on trapping warm air between fibers. Improper washing or drying can:
- compress the insulation, reducing loft,
- disrupt fiber distribution,
- damage the outer fabric’s softness,
- and decrease overall warmth.
Careful maintenance restores original thermal efficiency, even after multiple seasons.
2. Washing: gentle care, loft, and rinsing
AYAQ insulated jackets must be washed carefully to protect the internal insulation structure.
- Machine wash at max 30°C.
- Close all zippers before washing.
- Add 2 tennis balls to maintain loft and prevent clumping.
- Include other lightweight garments to balance drum movement.
- Use a standard liquid detergent without fabric softener or bleach.
- Select a thorough rinse to fully remove detergent residues.
- Choose a gentle spin cycle to preserve fiber integrity.
Fabric softeners clog fibers, reducing breathability and drying efficiency.
3. Drying: the key step to restore loft
Drying determines the jacket’s final quality by allowing fibers to regain their original volume.
- Dry the jacket directly in a tumble dryer with 2 tennis balls on a gentle cycle.
- This breaks up fiber clumps formed during washing and restores even loft.
Alternatively:
- Air dry, preferably flat.
- Turn the jacket regularly to prevent moisture buildup.
- Gently massage compressed areas to aerate compartments.
Patience is essential: improperly dried jackets lose insulating capacity.
4. Durable construction and repairability
Materials are chosen for abrasion resistance, and European craftsmanship—precise stitching, compartment stability, and needlework—ensures long-lasting durability. For tears or localized wear, AYAQ prioritizes repair: damaged panels, seams, small rips, or lost loft can be restored at our workshop in France near the Alps or through our local expert in Japan.
Conclusion
Well-maintained down jackets can last many years: gentle washing, thorough rinsing, careful drying, and timely repairs. These simple steps preserve loft, warmth, and comfort—allowing AYAQ insulation to perform fully in mountain conditions and everyday use.