Mountain Hardwear  Mountain Hardwear is a subsidiary of Columbia Sportswear based in Richmond, California that manufactures and distributes apparel, accessories and equipment primarily for the high performance needs of mountaineering enthusiasts and outdoor athletes, as well as for consumers who are inspired by the outdoor lifestyle. Mountain Hardwear was founded in 1993 in Richmond, California by a small group of former employees of Sierra Designs. Soon after, Mountain Hardwear's first sponsored athlete, Ed Viesturs, the first American to climb all fourteen 8,000 meter peaks (8000ers), helped develop several of the company's products. Today, Mountain Hardwear continues to associate with elite Alpine athletes. Columbia Sportswear acquired Mountain Hardwear in 2003. The company is headquartered in Richmond, California. Mountain Hardwear opened its first retail location in Portland, Oregon in April 2008. A Seattle, Washington retail store opened on December 5, 2008. The company has over 90 people in their California office, and more than 35 sales reps and associates in the United States and other countries. Mountain Hardwear sponsors a number of athletes. Most are alpinists, climbers, or skiers. Sponsored athletes include:  Vivian Bruchez, Tim Emmet, Cheyne Lempe, Mike Libecki, Angela Payne, Ethan Pringle, Freddie Wilkinson.