GearBuyer
Product Videos Product Reviews Buying Guides

Patagonia Active Brief

Men's Clothing > Fleece & Base LayersRated: **** by 40 reviews. Also available for: Women

Altrec

Keep it brief, you say? Full-cut for comfort, the highly breathable, featherweight Active Briefs keep you dry while providing a measure of support during cool-weather activities. The soft, quick-drying waistband won't chafe or snag on overlayers, and the nonrestrictive elasticized legs have rolled-out seams for next-to-skin softness. With a contoured fit and easy-access, functional fly. Made in USA. Common Threads Recycling ProgramResearch shows that the environmental impact of recycling worn-out Capilene base layers into new polyester fiber is significantly lower than making that same fiber from virgin materials. Taking into account that worn-out garments are diverted from trash incinerators, making new polyester fiber from recycled garments results in an energy savings of 76% and a CO2 emissions [greenhouse gasses] reduction of 71%, versus creating that fiber from new raw material. Capilene® Core Performance®Capilene base layers afford quick-drying, next-to-skin moisture management for all activities in all conditions ? from high-altitude bivies to sun-soaked water sports. Learn more

Features:

  • Easy-access functional fly
  • Elastic in the leg opening for a supple fit without tightness
  • Full cut for relaxed comfortT-oz. 54% recycled-fiber polyester, 46% virgin polyester; 100% recyclable polyester. Gladiodor natural odor controlU7 g. (2 oz.)
  • Knit fabric is open for maximum breathability, yet insulative enough for active use on chilly days
  • Made in USA.
  • Non-binding, quick-drying waistband is brushed for comfort
  • Stitching at leg binding is reversed out for chafe-free comfort

Patagonia

These featherweight, quick-wicking briefs keep you comfortable and dry whether you travel by bus, kayak or stubborn yak. The nonbinding waistband is brushed for next-to-skin softness, and elastic in the leg openings provides a supple fit without constricting. With reversed-out stitching for chafe-free comfort, an easy-access, functional fly and a supportive front panel. Made from 100% polyester (54% recycled) with moisture-wicking performance. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program.

Features:

  • Elastic in the leg openings provide a supple fit without constriction; stitching at leg binding is reversed out for chafe-free comfort
  • Made in USA.
  • Moisture-wicking Capilene® 2 fabric with an open-knit weave for breathability
  • Non-binding, quick-drying waistband is brushed for comfortT-oz 100% polyester (54% recycled) with Gladiodor® natural odor control and moisture-wicking performance. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling ProgramU7 g (2 oz)

Massey's Outfitters

These featherweight, quick-wicking briefs keep you cool and dry whether you travel by bus, kayak or stubborn yak. The nonbinding waistband is brushed for next-to-skin softness, and elastic in the leg openings provides a supple fit without constricting. With reversed-out stitching for chafe-free comfort, an easy-access, functional fly and a supportive front panel. Made from 54% recycled polyester with moisture-wicking performance and Gladiodor natural odor control. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program.
Moisture-wicking Capilene 2 fabric with an open-knit weave for breathability | Elastic in the leg openings provide a supple fit without constriction; stitching at leg binding is reversed out for chafe-free comfort | Non-binding, quick-drying waistband is brushed for comfort | Front panel is supportive
4-oz polyester (54% recycled) with Gladiodor natural odor control. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program
USA


Rock/Creek Outfitters

The Men's Active Briefs by Patagonia are formfitting, lightweight and quick-drying briefs made from recycled polyester. These featherweight, quick-wicking briefs keep you comfortable and dry whether you travel by bus, kayak or stubborn yak. The nonbinding waistband is brushed for next-to-skin softness, and elastic in the leg openings provides a supple fit without constricting.
With reversed-out stitching for chafe-free comfort, an easy-access, functional fly and a supportive front panel. Made from 100% polyester (54% recycled) with moisture-wicking performance.
Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program.

Features:

  • Elastic in the leg openings provide a supple fit without constriction; stitching at leg binding is reversed out for chafe-free comfort
  • Made in USA.
  • Moisture-wicking Capilene¨ 2 fabric with an open-knit weave for breathability
  • Non-binding, quick-drying waistband is brushed for comfort

USOutdoor.com

The soft, fast-drying waistband of the Active Briefs won't chafe

The soft, fast-drying waistband of the Active Briefs won't chafe; the nonrestrictive legs have rolled-out seams for next-to-skin softness. Trim fitting with a functional fly. Made in U.S.A.

Features:

  • Climbing
  • Cold-weather Biking
  • Easy-access functional fly
  • Elastic in the leg openings provide a supple fit without constriction
  • Ideal Uses
  • Made in U.S.A.
  • Non-binding, quick-drying waistband is brushed for comfort
  • Open knit for maximum breathability, yet insulative enough for chilly days
  • Stitching at leg binding is reversed out for chafe-free comfort
  • Trim fitT-oz 54% recycled polyester, 46% polyester; with Gladiodor™ natural odor control. 100% recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling ProgramU6 g (2 oz)
  • Winter Runs

REI

The new Active collection from Patagonia® features these full-cut briefs that work as a fair-weather base layer for a variety of activities.

  • Patagonia has reinvented their performance base-layers, now made from recycled and recyclable synthetic fiber
  • New, Gladiodor™ natural odor control employs benign amino acids to kill odor-causing bacteria; plus, it's nonpolluting, safe and durable
  • Non-binding, quick-drying waistband and elastic leg openings provide a comfortable fit without tightness
  • Stitching at leg openings is reversed out for chafe-free comfort
  • 100% recyclable through Patagonia's Common Threads Recycling Program—simply return your worn out item to Patagonia


Ramsey Outdoor

Formfitting, lightweight and quick-drying briefs for men made from recycled polyester. These featherweight, quick-wicking briefs keep you comfortable and dry whether you travel by bus, kayak or stubborn yak. The nonbinding waistband is brushed for next-to-skin softness, and elastic in the leg openings provides a supple fit without constricting. With reversed-out stitching for chafe-free comfort, an easy-access, functional fly and a supportive front panel. Made from 100% polyester (54% recycled) with moisture-wicking performance. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program.


SummitHut.com

Patagonia's Active Brief is a full-cut, lightweight brief for men who want to get away from cotton next-to-skin and appreciate quick-drying abilities.

Features:

  • Easy access functional fly for convenience
  • Elastic in the leg opening for a supple fit without tightness
  • Formfitting
  • Gladiodor natural odor control
  • Non-binding, quick drying waistband is brushed for comfort
  • Open knit for maximum breathability yet insulative enough for active use on chilly days
  • Stitching at leg binding is reversed out for chafe-free comfort

Appalachain Outdoors

These quick wicking briefs by Patagonia keep you cool and dry whether you're travel by bus, kayak or stubborn yak. The non-binding waistband is brushed for next-to-skin softness, and elastic in the leg openings provides a supple fit without constricting. With reversed-out stitching for chafe-free comfort, an easy-access, functional fly and a supportive front panel. Made from 54% recycled polyester with moisture-wicking performance and Gladiodor® natural odor control. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program.


Oregon Mountain Community

The Patagonia Active Briefs are a regular fit, lightweight, quick-drying, environmentally friendly brief for men who want to get away from cotton.

Features:

  • Elastic in the leg openings provide a supple fit without constriction; stitching at leg binding is reversed out for chafe-free comfort
  • Front panel is supportive
  • Made in USA.
  • Moisture-wicking Capilene® 2 fabric with an open-knit weave for breathability
  • Non-binding, quick-drying waistband is brushed for comfort

Backcountry.com

The Patagonia Men's Active Brief gives you a lightweight, wicking alternative to the cotton tighty-whities overflowing your underwear drawer. The performance of Patagonia's Capilene keeps you dry and comfy during long hikes or soggy days on the slopes. Built for layering, the Patagonia Active Briefs have an open knit for maximum breathability and a relatively high, seamless waistband that won't roll or bunch up.


Mountain Gear

The full-cut Active Brief from Patagonia is an excellent alternative to cotton for guys who like to push the envelope.

Features:

  • Easy-access, functional fly
  • Gladiodor fabric finish reduces odors through natural amino acid denaturing
  • Knit is open for maximum breathablity
  • Stitching at the leg opening for a supple fit without tightness

Moosejaw

No description provided.

Avg. Weight:57 g (2 oz)
Country of Origin:China
Fabric:54% Recycled polyester, 46% virgin polyester
Fabric Description:4-oz 100% polyester (54% recycled) with Gladiodor¨ natural odor control and moisture-wicking performance. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program
Fit:Formfitting.
Gender:Men's
Insulation:Lightweight
Material:54% Recycled polyester, 46% virgin polyester
Patagonia Product Number:44573
Recommended Use:Running, hiking, biking, skiing, climbing, camping
Warranty:Lifetime

View other products from Patagonia classified in Men's Clothing > Fleece & Base Layers.

View all products from Patagonia.
View other products classified in Men's Clothing > Fleece & Base Layers.

Sometimes, we can't be sure that the product is the same across the stores that offer its, so you may find the same product listed more then once on GearBuyer.com, we these list highly similar products below.

Patagonia Active Sport BriefPatagonia Active Sport Brief$28.95 - $29.00
Patagonia Active Boxer BriefPatagonia Active Boxer Brief$19.95 - $29.00
Patagonia Active Sport Boxer BriefPatagonia Active Sport Boxer Brief$31.95 - $32.00

Sometimes brands make complementary products for the opposite gender that coordinate with this product, we also try to show these products below.

Patagonia Active BriefPatagonia Active Brief - Women's$13.95 - $20.00

These are products that have been indicated being comparable to this product:

Patagonia Active Boxer BriefPatagonia Active Boxer Brief
Men's Clothing > Fleece & Base Layers
$19.95 - $29.00
Patagonia Active Classic BoxerPatagonia Active Classic Boxer
Men's Clothing > Fleece & Base Layers
$18.97 - $32.00
Patagonia Capilene 1Patagonia Capilene 1
Men's Clothing > Fleece & Base Layers
$24.95 - $42.00
silver star GearBuyer.com Top 25 Category Product
View other top products in this category...

Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

ColorSize
SmallMediumLargeExtra LargeExtra Extra Large
Classic Navy
Classic Navy
24.9525.005 More...24.9525.004 More...24.9525.004 More...24.9525.004 More...25.0025.002 More...
Navy
Navy
24.9525.0025.0024.9525.0025.0025.0025.0025.0025.0025.0025.00
White
White
25.0025.00  25.00 
Black
Black
24.9524.9510 More...24.9524.959 More...24.9524.959 More...24.9524.9510 More...24.9525.007 More...
Blk
Blk
    12.95
Feather Grey - Fog X-Dye
Feather Grey - Fog X-Dye
25.0025.003 More...25.0025.003 More...25.0025.003 More...25.0025.003 More...25.0025.003 More...
Grey
Grey
24.9524.953 More...24.9525.002 More...24.9525.002 More...24.9524.953 More...25.0025.0025.00
Stainless / Whale Blue Crossdye25.00  25.00 

Legend

  •     - Ramsey Outdoor
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - Patagonia
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Altrec
  •     - Appalachain Outdoors
  •     - Massey's Outfitters
  •     - REI
  •     - SummitHut.com
  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters

Patagonia Active Brief Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****26
****4
***5
**3
*2
To see how this product compares to others view Men's Fleece Clothing Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Improvement to an already good garment

Rating:****
Same great Capilene briefs, but now with a fly. Cut could be a little LESS full, but fit is good overall; I'm a 36" waist and Large fits well. Fabric dries quickly, and doesn't seem to get smelly as fast as previous iterations. Haven't had them long enough to know about durability. One small annoyance is that on each leg hole two seams join to form a bump that gets uncomfortable when sitting for long periods. For a day of rock climbing - no worries. For several hours on a plane - a nuisance. Still a great high-tech brief.
LabRat at Mountain Gear on 04/03/2007

Good, but . . .

Rating:****
I was looking for light, quick drying briefs for the warm weather and even under board shorts. These are that - light and quick drying, and they provide good support. The fit is a little on the small size of the size range. The only improvement might be in the comfort of the fabric. I have under armour boxer jocks (I'd prefer the briefs but under armour doesn't make a brief) and the fabric is much softer and more comfortable.
bps at Altrec on 05/06/2009

Great Fit

Rating:*****
I compared these to the Capilene Sport Brief and felt the Active Brief gave me a better fit and support with no sacrifice in comfort. The elastic in the leg band kept them in place where the sport brief tended to ride up a little. I plan to use them for running as well as hiking. Bought 6 more pair.
B Johnson at Altrec on 06/15/2007

brief

Rating:*****
I like briefs and I like having a fly. These are one of the few travel briefs out there with a fly. In addition, the fit is good, the fabric moves moisture, dries quickly, and has survived at least 2 years of regular use. Plus, my wife thinks they look sexy. Keep the briefs guys, and keep the fly!
Illimani94 at Patagonia on 09/09/2008

Good cut, great on the skin

Rating:*****
I like the overall cut and fit. The feel of the briefs make for a warm but not uncomfortable under layer. They're quick drying and light weight. I'll be taking several pairs when I go on camping or trips to Europe. Hey, how much can you write about a pair of skivvies?
Boiulderguy at Patagonia on 06/09/2009

VERY COMFORTABLE AND GREAT FOR TRAVELLING

Rating:****
SINCE IT DRIES QUICKLY YOU NEED ONLY TAKE A FEW AND DO A QUICK WASH AT NIGHT. USUALLY IT WILL BE DRY AND CAN BE WORN THE NEXT DAY. I ALSO FIND THEM LESS BULKY AND MORE COMFORTABLE THAN A COTTON BRIEF.I LOWERED THE RATING TO 4 BECAUSE OF THE PRICE.
THEODORE BENNETT at Altrec on 09/06/2009

slick, no stick

Rating:*****
These briefs are the best I've ever worn on extended hikes and walkabouts. They are wonderfully stretchy and non-binding and no matter how long I have them on, they never get as grubby as I do. Finally, an excellent reason to quit going commando in the field.
Ballgame at Patagonia on 10/30/2008

Great Breifs

Rating:*****
I bought these briefs for my very active husband. He runs, skis, bikes, sails, and delivers mail. He said they are the most comfortable brief he has ever worn. He likes that they are quick-drying too. They fit true to size. He recommends them!
JKTraverseCity at Patagonia on 10/12/2008

excellent underwear

Rating:*****
these underwear fit nice and tight and are therefore very supportive. They do an good job wicking and stopping odors too. I have a 34" waist and am 180 PBS and the mediums fit perfectly. I am planning to buy more pairs.
weber at Altrec on 01/26/2008

Another quality Patagonia product

Rating:*****
As a big fan of Patagonia I have come to expect every product I order exceed my expectations. It is no surprise that even these briefs ring the bell. Function, form, quality, value -- all there. I highly recommend this product.
patagoniafanphilly at Patagonia on 08/22/2009

Negative Reviews:

Bow-legged in Brooklyn

Rating:*
These briefs are cut too small, too close to the crotch. They are almost a jock-strap. No matter how large the size; the leg holes of these briefs are going to be 2-inches closer to the crotch than the Jockey-brand. I put on a pair of Jockey and put these on over the top of the Jockey. The leg seams of these bunch up into the crotch, giving you a rash. A complete waste of [$]. I am throwing them out.
LookingForTheTrail at REI on 03/13/2009

Not as good as ExOfficio

Rating:**
These don't fit well and are not as supportive as the similar ExOfficio briefs that I also own. I'm a 34" waist and ordered a large (34-36 according to sizing chart). I may try the sport version or go back to ExOfficio's.
Professor at Patagonia on 10/24/2009

"Shoot for boxer briefs."

Rating:*
The briefs had my boys all cramped up, not too fun on a long hike! The fabric doesnt give enough to be comfortable.
Jesse at Moosejaw on 12/04/2007

A little too tight for my husband's build

Rating:**
The boxer style fits better than the Active Brief style. Both were the same size, but the longer cut was more comfortable.
Bonnie-Kay Marks at Altrec on 12/03/2007

Fabric runs

Rating:**
REI brand briefs wear better
Sturdly at REI on 12/27/2008

Neutral Reviews:

These get holes in them

Rating:***
If current briefs are the same as the 2007 briefs they start getting holes/runs in the fabric within a few months. I bought two pair and they both started getting holes in them. I really like them and I sent the two pair back to Patagonia and they did replace them. I have older versions of Patagonia briefs and they do not do this, they wear like iron. I am hoping Patagonia changes their fabric back to the old fabric.
grasshopper at REI on 03/02/2009

"Great for warm weather activities"

Rating:***
The material is a bit thiner than I had expected which means there is slightly less heat conservation, but they do dry very well as a result. They are very light and the fabric is comfortable against the skin. Finally, they rise fairly high but this helps keep them on and in place very well.
Matt at Moosejaw on 12/07/2006

Consistent Patagonia quality

Rating:***
I was interested in a wicking brief for Alpine and Nordic skiing as well as hiking. The Active brief works fine. My only complaint is the size of the leg opennings, alittle snug for me. The waist is true to the Patagonia chart.
Day hiker Dad at Mountain Gear on 08/08/2007

A nice choice if you have to wear underwear!

Rating:***
A mostly comfortable option that dries quickly, fit is good unless you have large legs as the leg holes are a little small. Sizing for waist is right on
Anonymous at Altrec on 07/10/2007

"LIGHT"

Rating:***
Very light and comfortable Size runs a bit big
Michael at Moosejaw on 12/21/2007