Mountain Hardwear, Inc., a leader in high-performance mountaineering apparel and equipment, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Columbia Sportswear Company (Nasdaq:COLM), today announced the departure of brand president John Walbrecht, who has resigned to pursue opportunities closer to his family.

Columbia Sportswear Company President Bryan Timm commented, “I want to thank John for his intensity and leadership and, together with the rest of the management team, wish him success in his next adventure.

“While we carry out a succession process to identify the brand’s next leader, I will assume a more active role in day-to-day management working alongside the Mountain Hardwear leadership team, who are, themselves, proven industry leaders and brand builders. Over the past several months, we have been setting in motion many foundational aspects of our strategy to revitalize the Mountain Hardwear brand and are committed to continuing along that strategic course,” Timm concluded.

About Mountain Hardwear

Mountain Hardwear is a leader in innovative, premium outdoor apparel, equipment and accessories. Founded in 1993 and based in Richmond, CA, Mountain Hardwear is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Columbia Sportswear Company and distributes its products through specialty outdoor, running, and sporting goods retailers in the United States and 58 countries worldwide. www.mountainhardwear.com

About Columbia Sportswear Company

Columbia Sportswear Company has assembled a portfolio of brands for active lives, making it a leader in the global active lifestyle apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment industry. Founded in 1938 in Portland, Oregon, the company’s brands are today sold in approximately 100 countries. In addition to the Columbia® brand, Columbia Sportswear Company also owns the Mountain Hardwear®, SOREL®, prAna®, and OutDry® brands. To learn more, please visit the company's websites at www.columbia.com, www.mountainhardwear.com, www.sorel.com, www.prana.com, and www.outdry.com.