Columbia Powder Lite™ Jacket

Columbia is an American clothing company and outdoor equipment manufacturer, known primarily for its clothing, footwear, and equipment for outdoor activities.

Columbia Sportswear Company was founded in 1938 by Niels Peter Jensen in Portland, Oregon, USA. Initially a family-run business, it specialized in the production of hats for the fishing and hunting market.

Then, in 1970, the founder's daughter, Gert Boyle, took over the management after her husband's sudden death. She rose from housewife to director overnight. The "Tough Mother" persona, her legendary perfectionism ("It's perfect. Now do it better.") and the high standards she maintained and expected from others continue to define the brand's operations. Under Gert's leadership, the company expanded its offering to include sportswear, particularly clothing for mountaineering and other outdoor activities.

Columbia became most recognizable in the 1970s and 1980s by introducing new technologies and innovations in outdoor clothing and footwear. It gained a reputation as a manufacturer of clothing that protected against the elements.

Columbia gained popularity through humor-based advertising and marketing campaigns, known for its advertising slogan "Tested Tough." The brand focused on the quality and durability of its products.

In the 1990s and 2000s, Columbia began expanding into international markets, which contributed to the company's further growth.

Columbia is also known for introducing innovative solutions in the field of clothing technology, such as Omni-Tech technology (protection against rain and wind), Omni-Heat (providing thermal insulation) and Omni-Shade (protection against UV radiation)

The Columbia brand is involved in various social and ecological initiatives, taking action for sustainable production and environmental protection.

Thanks to its innovative products and focus on quality, Columbia has become one of the leading manufacturers of outdoor clothing and equipment in the world. Its products are widely available in stores around the world, and the brand is appreciated by both outdoor enthusiasts and people looking for comfortable and functional everyday clothing.