Columbia

Columbia has developed several proprietary technologies to enhance comfort and protection. Two of the most well-known are:

• Omni-Heat™ : This thermal-reflective technology, inspired by space blankets, uses a pattern of silver dots to retain body heat while maintaining breathability, providing warmth without adding weight.

• OutDry™:  Extreme An innovation in waterproofing, this technology places the waterproof membrane on the outside of the fabric, preventing it from getting waterlogged and keeping the wearer dry and comfortable.

Most of Columbia's clothing and footwear is considered true to size. It is generally recommended to order the size you would normally wear. The brand is also noted for offering a wide range of sizes, catering to different body types.

Columbia is focused on sustainability and limiting its environmental impact. The brand prioritises using recycled materials, with nearly 80% of its polyester being recycled. The down insulation used in its products is also certified by the Responsible Down Standard (RDS). Additionally, Columbia partners with the Planet Water Foundation to help provide clean water to disadvantaged communities.

To wash a natural down jacket, use a front-loading washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and a down-specific detergent. To dry it, tumble dry on a low or no-heat setting, adding a few clean tennis balls to help restore the down's fluffiness. Do not iron a down jacket, as high heat can damage the fabric and feathers.

Columbia's best-selling products often include their fleece jackets, such as the Steens Mountain™ and Benton Springs™ lines. Other popular items are their 3-in-1 Interchange jackets, waterproof outerwear, and hiking boots.

Yes, Columbia hiking boots are well-regarded for being comfortable, lightweight, and offering good traction. Models that feature their OutDry™ waterproofing technology are especially popular for hiking in wet conditions.

The Interchange system refers to Columbia's 3-in-1 jackets. These consist of a waterproof outer shell and a zip-in fleece or insulated liner. The two layers can be worn separately or zipped together for versatile protection in different weather conditions.

Omni-Heat™ is a thermal-reflective technology that uses a pattern of small silver dots on the inside of a garment to reflect and retain body heat. This provides warmth without adding bulk and allows for breathability.

Columbia uses both RDS-certified natural down and its own synthetic insulation, known as Omni-Heat™ synthetic down. This synthetic option is designed to mimic the loft of natural down but has the advantage of retaining warmth even when it gets wet.