Extremes

• Columbia Sportswear Company makes clothes for various activities, each of which may require a different type of fit. For instance, bicyclists prefer tight fitting outfits to reduce sweating on the skin and allow ease of movement for best speeds. Even recreational sport enthusiasts may prefer tighter fit to keep clothes from catching on objects. Other times, looser fitting clothes are more appropriate, such as when layering for high altitude climbing or hiking. Some people also simply prefer the look of one type of fit over another.
  
  

Authentic Fit

• According to Columbia Sportswear Company customer support personnel, the term "authentic fit" means a fit in between the two extremes: "not too fitted, but not too loose." While not appropriate for some sports that required less baggy clothing, articles marked as "authentic fit" by Columbia work for various types of outdoor activities, often providing a "relaxed feel." The term typically refers to men's pants lines within the company but is sometimes applied to tops and women's clothing, as well.
  
  

Materials

• Columbia uses various materials to make products termed "authentic fit." Men's pants and shorts such as the Ultimate ROC pant and Men's Brewha short lines each contain 100 percent cotton. The Brewha shorts also come in a women's style with authentic fit. The Tamiami women's shirt line with authentic fit contains pure polyester. The materials used for authentic fit styles in lines throughout the company create comfort without being too baggy or too snug.
  
  

Similarities

• A Columbia Sportswear Company customer service representative explained that "authentic fit" has similar characteristics to the "flex fit" style in women's pants and shorts the company produces. "Flex fit" lines such as the women's Just Right lines are designed to create a flattering and yet comfortable fit that allows for ease of movement during activities. Made largely of nylon, the Just Right Straight Leg Woven Pant, for instance, offers "two-way comfort stretch" for "flex fit," much like "authentic fit" in other lines.