Columbia Sportswear is a world-renowned outdoor brand based in Portland, Oregon, producing gear for an athletic lifestyle. The clothing, shoes and accessories reflect the heritage of the Pacific Northwest and the indomitable spirit of Columbia. It all started in 1937 when Gert's parents fled Nazi Germany and settled in Portland. There they purchased a small hat business and called it the Columbia Hat Company. This business symbolized a new beginning for the family. It was initially run by Gert's father, then by her husband Neal and finally by Gert herself from 1970, when she went from housewife to manager overnight after Neal's sudden death. Founder Gert Boyle’s role as “Tough Mother” lives on in the Columbia brand. Columbia still draws inspiration from its legendary perfectionism (“It’s perfect. Now do it even better.”) and the high standards she set for herself and for others. Everyone at Columbia loves nature as much as you do. And while their gear is available around the world, Columbia is proud to be based in the Pacific Northwest, where they enjoy lush forests, snow-capped mountains, rocky coastlines and endless open spaces. Here you can hike, fish, hunt, camp, climb, snowboard, paddleboard, golf, run and enjoy the fresh air with friends.