Financial Information for Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net revenue	$ 37,611	$ 36,679
Contribution loss	(2,478)	(3,156)
Reconciliation of contribution income (loss) to net loss attributable to Gaiam, Inc.:
Interest and other income (expense)	38	(31)
Gain on sale of investment	438
Income tax expense (benefit)	96	(984)
Income from discontinued operations	26	1,981
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(62)	(54)
Net loss attributable to Gaiam, Inc.	(2,134)	(276)
Direct to consumer
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net revenue	13,165	11,271
Contribution loss	(4,839)	(5,170)
Business
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net revenue	24,446	25,408
Contribution loss	$ 2,361	$ 2,014