Columbia Sportswear

Columbia Sportswear is a US outdoor clothing brand from Portland, Oregon, focused on practical, value-priced gear for hiking, skiing, fishing and everyday cold or wet weather. Its jackets and layers use in-house technologies such as Omni-Heat thermal-reflective linings for warmth, Omni-Tech waterproof-breathable shells and Omni-Shade sun protection, while the PFG (Performance Fishing Gear) line serves anglers. The range also includes fleece, insulated parkas, hiking trousers, shirts and footwear for men, women and children. Columbia sells through its own stores and outlets, its website and outdoor and department stores. Its prices are lower than many technical outdoor brands, which suits families and occasional adventurers. For harsh conditions or serious mountaineering, buyers may want more specialist gear, so they should compare waterproof ratings, insulation type and fit before buying.