I never use a high loft because I like an antique look but have used regular Fairfield (I think it was) High Loft for tied comforters. The only batting I've ever had beard was wool, but I love it so much I just put up with the bearding. After a couple of washes, it isn't too bad.

I've currently got 2 queen size quilt sandwiched and ready to FMQ using Quilters Dream Puff batting. http://www.quiltersdreambatting.com/dream-puff.htm It is very HIGH loft, and yet still light weight. Also good quality and I don't expect to run into any bearding issues from what I have read. I can't wait to get started on these!

Can someone please tell me what it means when the batting "beards"?

I would recommend putting a layer of Quilters Dream Select and then placing their Dream Wool on top of that. You will have a puffier look than just the wool but the quilt will still breathe. For myself, I find poly to be very hot because it doesn't breathe. I have laundered quilts in the washer on gentle with regular spin cycle made with Quilters Dream wool and not had any bearding. Bearding means fine little threads of the batting fiber work through the fabric of the quilt.

we use poly every day in our quilts and customer quilts ...have never had any bearding problems...hope it was just a one time thing for you or it was just that particular brand