These pillows were bought for our second home. My husband and I LOVE soft pillows you can sink into rather than firm that elevate your head, stretch your neck and for us, give us a giant headache. So yes, we're picky! These pillows are absolutely lovely, reasonably priced set of 2 that meet every criteria of ours! I honestly didn't understand what "down alternative" is but at this point I will look for it. 5 stars!