AYAQ insulated jackets—whether it’s the powerful insulation of ULTAR, the exceptional freedom of movement of BALTORO, or the innovative system of FORNO—are engineered to provide 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 Care for Your 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 the jacket’s warmth.
Precise care restores original thermal efficiency, even after multiple seasons.
2. Washing: Gentle Handling, Loft Preservation, and Thorough Rinsing
AYAQ insulated jackets require careful washing to maintain the internal insulation structure.
- Machine wash at max 30°C.
- Close all zippers before washing.
- Add 2 tennis balls to maintain aeration and prevent compression.
- Add other lightweight garments to balance drum movement.
- Use a standard liquid detergent without fabric softener or bleach.
- Select a heavy rinse cycle to fully remove detergent residues.
- Choose a gentle spin to protect 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: a poorly dried jacket loses 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
With gentle washing, thorough rinsing, meticulous drying, and timely repairs, a down jacket can last many years. These simple steps preserve loft, warmth, and comfort—allowing AYAQ insulation to perform fully in the mountains and daily life.