Columbia Sportswear Integrates OUTLAST Temperature Regulation Into its 2001 Collection.

Business Editors

BOULDER, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 2000

OUTLAST(R) Temperature Regulation - the technology that absorbs, stores and releases heat to keep you comfortable across more environments and activity levels - will be incorporated in Columbia Sportswear's Fall 2001 collection.

"We are always seeking ways to enhance the quality and functionality of our apparel," said Doug Prentice, general manager of outerwear for Columbia Sportswear. "With its ability to manage temperature for maximum comfort, OUTLAST Temperature Regulation offers a new dimension to our line."

Columbia will be presenting the Phase-Shift Parka, with a suggested retail price of $249, in five colors for men and four colors for women. In addition, Columbia will be incorporating OUTLAST technology into its accessory line with items such as hats and gloves.

"With these new apparel offerings, OUTLAST Temperature Regulation will be even more widely available to consumers anxious to wear the latest in outdoor apparel technology," said George Cattermole, President and CEO at Outlast Technologies. "We are thrilled that this excellent brand has committed to bringing OUTLAST performance to the apparel side as well as the hosiery side."

Last year, Columbia offered OUTLAST Temperature Regulation in two ski socks and a hunting sock. Building on the tremendous success of these products, this year's hosiery line carries three additional OUTLAST socks: two snowboarding socks and a liner sock.

"The demand for OUTLAST Temperature Regulation made it an easy decision to double our OUTLAST offerings for the coming year," said Tracy Crenshaw, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Crescent Hosiery Mills, Columbia's licensee. "With the tremendous sell-through that took place initially, we anticipate another banner season for retailers with these products."

Outlast Technologies, Inc., develops, licenses, and markets Temperature Regulation fibers, fabrics and foams to premium quality brands for outdoorwear, extremitywear, home products and workwear in North America, Europe and Asia. Product customers include Boeri, Fjallraven, Jack Wolfskin, K2, Marmot Mountain, Nordica, Rollerblade, Wigwam and approximately 200 other companies worldwide. Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Boulder, Colo., Outlast Technologies has pioneered the development of Temperature Regulation technology. For further information about Outlast Technologies and OUTLAST Temperature Regulation, visit www.outlast.com.

Founded in 1938 in Portland, Oregon, Columbia Sportswear Company is a global leader in the design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of active outdoor apparel and footwear. As one of the largest outerwear manufacturers in the world, and the leading seller of skiwear in the United States, the company has developed an international reputation for quality, performance, functionality and value. To learn more about Columbia Sportswear, please visit the company's Web site at www.columbia.com.