Columbia Sportswear was founded in 1938 by Paul Lamfrom, who bought a small hat company in Portland, Oregon, and renamed it the Columbia Hat Company after the nearby Columbia River. The company began mainly selling hats but shifted to outdoor apparel in the 1960s, officially becoming Columbia Sportswear Company in 1960.

After founder Paul Lamfrom’s death, Neal Boyle, who married Paul’s daughter Gert, took over. When Neal died suddenly in 1970, Gert Boyle stepped in to lead the company, saving it from near bankruptcy. Under her leadership, Columbia introduced innovative products like the Bugaboo parka and built a reputation for durable, high-quality outdoor gear.

Columbia went public in 1998 and expanded through acquisitions, growing into a global leader in outdoor apparel. Gert Boyle became known as the company’s “Tough Mother,” symbolizing the brand’s resilience and high standards. Today, Columbia remains family-led with Tim Boyle, Gert’s son, as CEO. This history reflects a legacy of family perseverance and innovation in outdoor clothing.