Outdoor Guide

Tough Mother Outdoor Guide

No-nonsense advice from people who’ve been there.

Featured Articles

Getting Started

What You Need to Know About Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

Nancy Bouchard

Columbia Sportswear’s Guide for planning a Pacific Crest Trail thru hike.

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Getting Started

What is Overlanding?

Kristen Gill

Check out our handy guide to learn about the basics of overlanding, how to get started, what you will need, and the unique ethos of the overlanding community.

Getting Started

What is Glamping?

Troy Asplund

Take your next camp trip to a new level of luxury and glamour. From setup ideas to what to wear, here’s everything you need to know about glamping.

Trail Running

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Interview

What It Takes to Run the Tor des Géants

Nancy Bouchard

A conversation with Columbia Ambassador Willie McBride on running the 200-mile Tor des Géants through the Italian Alps.

Story

Why This French Alps Race Is the World’s Most Badass Marathon

Rachel Cavanaugh

Nestled in the mountains of France’s Chamonix Valley, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is an event where gorgeous scenery and badass people collide.

Outdoor Skills

Trail Running Nutrition: A Pro Runner’s Food and Diet Plan

Rachel Cavanaugh

Professional trail runner Yassine Diboun breaks down what to eat before, during, and after your run

Getting Started

Trail Runners Beginners Guide

Nathan Dinsdale

While trail running may seem intimidating, just think of it as hiking with some extra pep in your step. Here are a few things to know before you go.

Getting Started

Trail Running vs. Road Running: Which One Wins? (Hint: It’s Trail Running)

Rachel Cavanaugh

Whether you’re completely new to running and trying to figure out where to start, here are some of the most compelling reasons to get into trail running.

Outdoor Skills

Every Surface Is a Trail: Columbia’s Konos Trillium ATR Marks a New Era in Performance Trail Running 

Nancy Bouchard

The hardest part of running isn’t getting off the couch—it’s figuring out what to put on your feet. Columbia's Konos Trillium ATR rewrites the rules.

Gear

The Evolution of Lightweight Trail Gear

Rachel Cavanaugh

Nowadays, rain shells are so lightweight you can barely tell you’re wearing them. How did science make it possible?

Interview

Social Distancing with Distance Runners

Nathan Dinsdale

We reached out to Columbia Montrail athletes Yassine Diboun and Willie McBride to see how they’re navigating a global pandemic.

Getting Started

Planning Your Running Race Calendar

Nancy Bouchard

Running races isn’t just about competition; it’s about finding your focus. Whether you’re chasing a new personal record or crossing the finish line for fun, having a goal gives your runs purpose and keeps you motivated.

Outdoor Skills

How to Stay Cool While Running

Michele Elder

From sun-protective clothing to hydration, discover our tips on how to beat the heat on your next trail run.

Getting Started

How to Get Started Running

Nancy Bouchard

Revving up the mind and body: the transformative power of running

Gear

How to Choose Trail Running Shoes

David Young

From weight to durability, discover what factors to consider when finding the right trail running shoe for you.

Getting Started

What to Wear on Your First Snowshoeing Trip

Troy Asplund

Our beginner’s guide to snowshoeing explains everything you need to bring on your adventure

Interview

Who Is Hot Dog Hans? Meet the Legend Behind the Legend.

Rachel Cavanaugh

Columbia Sportswear sat down with Olympic skier Alex Ferreira to learn more about his crotchety alter ego, Hotdog Hans

Gear

What to Wear: Skiing and Snowboarding

Rachel Cavanaugh

Check out our list of all the clothing you will need before you hit the slopes to ski or snowboard this winter.

Interview

Your Top Skiing & Snowboarding Questions Answered

Rachel Cavanaugh

Planning a trip to the mountain? We reached out to an expert ski instructor to answer all of your questions.

Getting Started

Tips for Skiing and Snowboarding with Kids

Rachel Cavanaugh

From renting gear to staying warm, these tips will help you and your kids enjoy your day on the mountain.

Gear

Ski Trip Essentials: The Ultimate Ski and Snowboard Trip Packing Guide

Nancy Bouchard

The fresh powder won’t wait for you to head back home and grab your gear. Here are some ways to ensure you pack everything you need for your next ski or snowboard adventure.

Getting Started

The Best Ski Areas and Resorts for Families

Nancy Bouchard

Skiing is the ultimate multi-generational sport: Here’s how to select the best family-friendly ski resorts to enhance your experience, save money, and beat the crowds.

Story

The Best Spring Skiing Spots in North America

Rachel Cavanaugh

From Alaska to Vermont, here are the best places for spring skiing.

Gear

The Best Gifts for Skiers & Snowboarders

Rachel Cavanaugh

Need gift ideas for the winter sports enthusiast in your life? For inspiration, check out our list of the best gifts for skiers and snowboarders.

Story

The Art of Upcycling Skis and Snowboards

Rachel Cavanaugh

Learn more about the growing trend of repurposing old skis for furniture and décor.

Gear

Ski Pants Versus Bibs: What’s the Difference?

David Young

We take a deep dive into the benefits of ski pants versus bibs to help you decide which option is best for you

Gear

Parkas vs. Puffer Jackets: What’s the Difference?

Troy Asplund

Dorothy Hopkins, apparel design manager for Columbia Sportswear, explains the difference between Parkas and Puffer Jackets.

Gear

What to Bring Winter Camping: An Essentials Checklist

Kristen Gill

Gear up for the ultimate adventure with our winter camping checklist

Getting Started

What is Glamping?

Troy Asplund

Take your next camp trip to a new level of luxury and glamour. From setup ideas to what to wear, here’s everything you need to know about glamping.

Outdoor Skills

Thunder and Lightning Safety for Camping and Hiking

Nancy Bouchard

In part 3 of Columbia's thunder and lightning series learn how to stay safe during a thunderstorm while you are camping or on the trail.

Gear

The Ten Essentials of Backcountry Camping and Hiking

Troy Asplund

Headed out on a backcountry hike or backpacking trip? Don’t forget the ten essentials of backcountry camping and hiking.

Gear

The Complete Packing List for Your RV Camping Adventure

Troy Asplund

Hitting the open road in your RV or camper van? Columbia Sportswear is here to help with a packing list of everything you need for your next adventure.

Outdoor Skills

The 22 Best Camping Hacks

David Young

These clever DIY camping tips will help you dial in your wilderness experience

Outdoor Skills

How to Set up A Tent

Nancy Bouchard

Whether you’re camping in the backcountry or at an established campground, setting up a tent takes practice. Here’s what you need to know.

Outdoor Skills

How to Build A Campfire

Nancy Bouchard

Everything you need to know about starting a campfire

Getting Started

Getting Ready for Camping Season

Elyse Johansen

Whether you are a first time camper or an experienced outdoor adventurer, checkout Columbia Sportswear's guide to get ready for camping season.

Getting Started

Car Camping Vs Tent Camping: Which Is Best For You?

Troy Asplund

Whether you plan on sleeping in a cozy tent or a comfy SUV, this helpful guide will help you dial in your camping setup

Outdoor Skills

Campfire Safety Tips for Your Next Camping Trip

Nancy Bouchard

Part 1 in Columbia's four-part summer camping series: an introduction to campfire safety

Gear

Best Summer Camping Outfits

David Young

From shirts, shorts, and baselayers to sandals, dresses, and puffy jackets, here’s everything you need this summer to camp in style.

Gear

What to Wear on Your Next River Adventure

David Young

Whether you’re kayaking, rafting, fishing, or paddleboarding, check out Columbia Sportwear's guide on what to pack for a day on the river.

Story

What is UPF Clothing?

Troy Asplund

Haskell Beckham, Columbia Sportswear’s VP of Innovation, speaks about the benefits of sun-protective clothing and Omni-Shade Broad Spectrum Technology.

Gear

What is Columbia Sportswear’s OutDry Extreme?

Rachel Cavanaugh

This deep dive into Columbia’s OutDry™ Extreme technology shows you how the popular waterproof-breathable gear works

Gear

What is Columbia Sportswear's Omni-Freeze Zero Technology?

Nancy Bouchard

Don’t sweat the small stuff. When the going gets hot, the tough cool down.

Gear

What is Columbia Sportswear's Outgrown Technology?

Nancy Bouchard

Kid’s grow. Why shouldn’t their apparel keep up?

Gear

What is Columbia Sportswear’s Omni-Tech?

Rachel Cavanaugh

Learn more about Columbia Sportswear’s innovative waterproof and breathable Omni-Tech technology.

Care Repair

Ways To Make Your Outdoor Gear Last Longer

Rachel Cavanaugh

Outdoor gear is built to be rugged and durable. You just need to know how to take care of it. Check out our tips for outdoor gear maintenance.

Gear

What Does 'Breathability' Mean In Outdoor Clothes?

Rachel Cavanaugh

We asked a Columbia Sportswear fabric engineer to explain what breathability is—and why it matters.

Gear

Jacket Required: 6 Types of Outdoor Coats to Know

Troy Asplund

From puffers to parkas, our handy guide will help you find the right jacket for any weather condition.

Gear

The Best Hunting Gear to Make Your Trip

Troy Asplund

From the warmest jackets to the quietest vests, here’s a list of Columbia Sportwear’s best hunting gear.

Gear

9 Exceptionally Warm Midlayers With Omni-Heat™ Helix

David Young

Here’s the best winter gear featuring Columbia Sportswear’s new Omni-Heat™ Helix technology

Gear

The 5 Best Kids Backpacks

Troy Asplund

From back-to-school bags to travel packs, these are Columbia Sportswear’s best kids backpacks.

Outdoor Life

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Story

Winter Outdoor Myths: A Guide to Cold Weather Fact and Fiction

Nancy Bouchard

Columbia Sportswear breaks down some well-known cold weather myths, and gives you the facts to keep you warm, comfortable and safe this winter.

Gear

What to Wear When Paddleboarding

Troy Asplund

Learn more about how to dress for success on the water with the right clothing for paddleboarding.

Gear

What to Pack for a Winter Cabin Getaway

David Young

Check out our ultimate cabin packing list for your next winter vacation.

Outdoor Skills

What to Know About Thunder and Lightning

Nancy Bouchard

What to know about the danger of thunder and lightning.

Getting Started

What is Overlanding?

Kristen Gill

Check out our handy guide to learn about the basics of overlanding, how to get started, what you will need, and the unique ethos of the overlanding community.

Getting Started

What You Need to Know About Kayaking and Canoeing: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Nancy Bouchard

From chilling on flat water to conquering whitewater and camping under the stars, canoes and kayaks let you explore, fish, and have a blast with no expert skills required…yet.

Getting Started

Via Feratta: Step Into The Vertical World

Nancy Bouchard

Learn more about Via Feratta, the “iron path”, a unique blend of rock climbing and hiking.

Gear

Types of Camouflage: Pick the Right Pattern for Your Hunting Trip

David Young

From deer and elk to ducks and geese, here’s a breakdown of the best camo patterns for hunting

Outdoor Skills

Top Secrets for Making Amazing Campfire Meals

Rachel Cavanaugh

Camping season may be several months away, but wilderness chef Sophie Hollingsworth is already talking about ways to improve your outdoor culinary game.

Getting Started

The Ultimate Guide To Ice Climbing: How to Conquer Winter’s Coolest Challenge

Nancy Bouchard

Thanks to Ice Parks, advanced gear, and apparel that keeps you warm in any condition, ice climbing is the new 'it' sport—and no experience is required!

Gear

The Best Gifts for Outdoorsy Dads

Rachel Cavanaugh

Searching for the perfect gift for an outdoorsy dad? Columbia Sportswear is here to help with our gift guide for outdoorsy dads.

Getting Started

The Benefits of Cold Plunging

Rachel Cavanaugh

From reduced inflammation to improved mood, Discover the range of health benefits associated with cold plunging.

Story

Why These Five LGBTQIA+ Adventurers Go Outside

Rachel Cavanaugh

From hiking in Patagonia to sailing the Atlantic coast, here are the stories of five adventurers and what the outdoors means to them.

Story

For People With Breast Cancer, the Outdoors Offers Healing Power

Rachel Cavanaugh

Three women share their stories about how nature offered them strength on their journeys

Story

Ten Things to Know About NASCAR

Nancy Bouchard

Columbia ambassador Bubba Wallace tells us the 10 Things You Should Know About NASCAR

Story

A Lifestyle Brand That Connects Mental Health and the Outdoors

Rachel Cavanaugh

Madhappy Cofounder Mason Spector promotes spending time outside for your mental health

Story

How People of Color Are Reclaiming The Outdoors

Rachel Cavanaugh

Nature hasn’t always felt safe or welcoming for BIPOC folks—but a movement is underway to reclaim those spaces.

Story

How Queer Folks Are Finding Community in the Outdoors

Rachel Cavanaugh

From backpacking trips to skiing adventures, The Venture Out Project is bringing LGBTQ+ people together outside.

Story

How One Man Conquered Addiction Through the Outdoors

Rachel Cavanaugh

Pro ultra-runner Yassine Diboun found freedom from substance abuse through trail running.

Story

How Norwegian ‘Friluftsliv’ Can Inspire You to Get Outside More

Rachel Cavanaugh

In Norwegian culture, spending time outdoors isn’t just for sports or recreation—it’s a way of life

Story

How Anglers Are Saving Our Waterways

Rachel Cavanaugh

Captains For Clean Water, an organization of boat captains & fishermen, is pushing a cluster of 68 Eco projects dubbed Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan.

Story

Giving Back on Earth Day: Because Wishing Won’t Save the Planet

Nancy Bouchard

Learn how you can make a difference this Earth Day, as well as year-round.

Story

Give the Gift of the Outdoors

Nancy Bouchard

How holiday gift giving can make outdoor activities more fun.

Story

Creating Body Positivity in Outdoor Spaces

Rachel Cavanaugh

From expanding product lines to hiring plus-size models, read how we are working to increase body inclusivity in the outdoors.

Getting Started

The Hot Springs Revolution: Why Thermal Baths Are Making a Comeback

Nancy Bouchard

Columbia Sportswear’s ultimate guide to relaxing and recharging in nature’s spa.

Story

The Best National Parks to Visit in the Winter

Rachel Cavanaugh

Winter is an incredible time to see America’s national parks—here’s everything you need to know to plan a visit.

Story

The 12 Best National Parks to Visit in Spring

Kristen Gill

Whether it’s spring break or a family vacation, these are the best national parks for your adventure.

Story

The Best National Parks to Visit in Summer

Kristen Gill

Consider these U.S. national parks for your summertime getaway

Story

The Best National Parks to Visit in Fall

Troy Asplund

Take in fall’s amazing colors in one of our National Parks, with Columbia Sportswear’s list of the best national parks to visit in fall.

Outdoor Skills

Outdoor Photography: How To Shoot Better Sunsets

Rachel Cavanaugh

One of the world’s leading adventure photographers, Grant Gunderson, explains how to capture the perfect sunset.

Story

No Reservation? No Problem: The Subversive Guide to Outdoor Travel

Nancy Bouchard

Columbia's tips on last minute outdoor adventures

Story

National Parks: Your Most Frequently Asked Questions

Troy Asplund

From visitor stats to the history of our national park system, we answer your most pressing questions.

Getting Started

How to Get Your Kids Outside

David Young

Help your kids discover the joys of the outdoors with Columbia Sportswear’s 6 tips to Getting Your Kids Outside.

Story

How To Still Have A Social Life This Fall

Rachel Cavanaugh

The weather is getting colder but the pandemic hasn’t gone away. Check out this list of ideas on how get outside, stay social, and stay safe.

Story

How Black Women Are Walking To Take Their Power Back

Rachel Cavanaugh

Discover how the women of GirlTrek are fostering sisterhood and transforming their health by walking together to heal.

Story

Discover the Untamed Beauty of Native American Lands

Nancy Bouchard

Learn where and how you can visits Native American lands, and the the regulations, traditions, and history you need to know before you go.

Outdoor Skills

4 Wilderness Survival Skills You Can Practice in Your Backyard

David Young

Be prepared by honing your backyard bushcraft.

Gear

What to Wear Hiking: 10 Essentials to Pack

Michele Elder

Whether you’re a beginner hiker or a trail expert, here’s a packing checklist for your next day hike.

Getting Started

What You Need to Know About Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

Nancy Bouchard

Columbia Sportswear’s Guide for planning a Pacific Crest Trail thru hike.

Getting Started

What is Thru Hiking?

Nancy Bouchard

Learn more about thru hiking and what you should know before you hit the long trail.

Getting Started

What is Peak Bagging? | Columbia Sportswear

Nancy Bouchard

From backyard hills to Everest thrills, peak bagging is an adventure you might not have heard of, but one you'll want to start.

Outdoor Skills

9 Unique Hiking Picnic Ideas for Every Palate

Kristen Gill

Tired of the same old PB&Js and granola bars? Try these one-of-a-kind hiking lunch ideas on your next adventure

Outdoor Skills

Tips for Hiking in the Rain

Ali Wunderman

Discover the adventure and fun of rainy-day hiking with Columbia Sportswear's pro-tips and a list of gear you will need for a hike in the rain.

Getting Started

Tips for Hiking With Your Dog

David Young

Introduce your dog to the joys of hiking with Columbia’s tips for hiking with your dog.

Care Repair

Stinky Shoes 101: How to Get Rid of Hiking Boot Odor

Rachel Cavanaugh

If stinky shoes are bringing you down post-hike, here’s how to get rid of boot odor.

Outdoor Skills

Outdoor Exercise Ideas for Lockdown

Rachel Cavanaugh

During lockdown gym rats discovered hiking as exercise. Now many say they’re never going back. Learn the benefits of exercising outdoors.

Outdoor Skills

Leave No Trace: Rules for Hiking Ethics and Etiquette

David Young

Learn how to become a more ethical hiker with our quick-guide to Leave No Trace principles.

Outdoor Skills

How to Prevent Chafing on the Trail

David Young

Don’t let discomfort derail your adventure. From hiking to trail running, here are some tips to keep you chafe-free.

Story

Why Sportfishing in Southern Baja Is Paradise

Rachel Cavanaugh

If you’re into sportfishing, southern Baja is the place to be. The region’s incredible biodiversity creates conditions that are epic for sportfishing.

Story

Columbia Sportswear’s Guide to Fly Fishing Apparel

Nancy Bouchard

Fly fashion: what to wear to look real cool on your next fly fishing adventure

Getting Started

Tips for Fly Fishing in Cold Weather

Rachel Cavanaugh

Pro angler Curtis Ciszek shares his advice for getting the most out of fall and winter fishing excursions.

Gear

The Best Fishing Shoes

Michelle Elder

From sturdy lace-ups to casual slip-ons, let us help you find the best shoes for fishing and boating.

Gear

The All-Time Best Columbia PFG Fishing Shirts

Rachel Cavanaugh

Columbia’s is known for making high quality PFG fishing shirts. Discover our favorites and learn why anglers around the world love our PFG fishing shirts.

Outdoor Skills

Quick Guide to Fall Fly Fishing

Rachel Cavanaugh

To help you get the most out of this stellar season, we chatted with fly fishing expert Ruth Sims who shared her best tips and tricks for fall fly fishing.

Story

Quarantined At Sea: A Sailor’s Stormy Fishing Journey

Rachel Cavanaugh

After COVID-19 rerouted his sailing trip, Curtis Ciszek encountered turbulent waters—and was reminded of the rewards of cold-weather fishing.

Story

Pete Alonso’s Passion for Conservation Runs Deep

Rachel Cavanaugh

Off the field, MLB player Pete Alonso is an avid angler and advocate for the eco-group Captains for Clean Water. Learn more about Pete and CFCW.

Gear

Meet the PFG Pro Sport Deck Boot

Nancy Bouchard

Learn more about Columbia's new PFG Pro Sport Deck Boot, engineered for your toughest days on the water.

Interview

Luke Combs: Life in the Reel World

Nathan Dinsdale

Temporarily on hiatus due to COVID-19, we caught up with the PFG ambassador to talk music, fishing, and more.

Outdoor Skills

Lightning Safety Tips for Boaters, Anglers and Swimmers 

Nancy Bouchard

In the conclusion of Columbia's thunder and lightning safety series, learn how to stay safe during a storm when you are out on the water.

Gear

How to Stay Cool and Protected Fishing

Brook Gerity-Miles

Anglers should avoid over-exposure which can lead to sunburn, skin damage, and even cancer. Here are ways to find fishing nirvana while playing it safe.