| Cover Page Document | Oct. 30, 2019 |
| Cover Page [Abstract] | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001050797 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | OR |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 30, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | COLUMBIA SPORTSWEAR COMPANY |
| Entity File Number | 000-23939 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 93-0498284 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 14375 Northwest Science Park Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Portland |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OR |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 97229 |
| City Area Code | 503 |
| Local Phone Number | 985-4000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Trading Symbol | COLM |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
