As a global brand well-known for sports, leisure, and outdoor wear, Columbia, was born in 1938 in Portland, Oregon, and continues to have a large fan base even after more than 80 years.
One of the representative products of Columbia is the Bugaboo Parka, which emerged in the 1970s and quickly became a sensation, helping to propel the Columbia name worldwide.
Today, we will dive deep into the Bugaboo Parka with insights from Noriyuki Naito of Columbia Sportswear Japan.
“Columbia was grown into a renowned brand under the leadership of Gert Boyle, the founder's daughter and a housewife, who became president from the 1980s and is fondly referred to as the 'Mother of Columbia.'
"She emphasized two key elements: the creation of original items and technologies, and a commitment to fair pricing. The Bugaboo Parka perfectly embodies these principles.”
The Birth of the Bugaboo Parka in the 1980s
The standout feature of the Bugaboo Parka is its "Interchange System," which allows it to be worn in three different ways. The detachable shell and inner layer offer versatility that many brands have since adopted, but its origins lie with Columbia. Let's explore this interchange system further.