In what year did Columbia Sportswear acquire the apparel brand prAna? 2014.
Columbia Sportswear acquired prAna in 2014, completing the transaction on May 30 for approximately $190 million in cash. The deal added a lifestyle apparel company with roots in climbing, yoga, and other active pursuits to Columbia’s outdoor-brand portfolio.
PrAna, founded in California, had developed a reputation for clothing designed for movement and travel, including apparel associated with climbing and yoga. Columbia described the acquisition as a way to broaden its position in the active and lifestyle market while adding another distinct brand rather than folding every product into the Columbia label.
The transaction is sometimes confused with the year Columbia announced its purchase agreement, but the acquisition itself was completed in 2014. PrAna remained a separate brand and operated as a wholly owned subsidiary. Columbia’s broader portfolio also includes brands such as SOREL and Mountain Hardwear, which are separate from prAna.