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Patagonia Borderless Messenger Shorts (a.k.a Capris)

Are you man enough to wear man-pris? Our skeptical tester discovers that he is.
Photos & Text by Will Rochfort
«
  • When I think of man-pris, I think of euro-trekker girly men. When I initially put them on, I felt like I borrowed my little brother's pants; I was thankful I would initially be testing alone so I could avoid ridicule from my testosterone-driven peers.
  • I tested them all over Southern California, from windy days on the coast to burning hot days in the desert, and I found them way more comfortable than I expected--ideal for running, bouldering, climbing, canyoning, or warm-weather hiking.
  • The exceptional freedom of movement comes from several features: the gusseted crotch, the articulated knees, the partially elasticized waistband. The limber man-pris even made me feel obligated to stop my run once and go climbing.
  • The lightweight, very breathable fabric--made of recycled ripstop nylon with 5% spandex mixed in for stretch--holds up well to abrasion, repels light moisture, and has 40-UPF protection from the sun. Plus, it dries wicked fast.
  • Pockets are functional (three are zippered for security), yet hip-looking (because the zippers are inconspicuous). And while I can't say for sure whether all chicks dig man-pris, I can confirm that at least a few (three!) do!
  • <b>The Specs</b><br> $69<br> Men's XS-XXL <br>10 oz., medium on BP scales<br>Colors: Forge Grey, Retro Khaki<br>Patagonia.com<br><i>Bonus points to Patagonia for using 60% recycled nylon from their Common Threads Recycling Program. </i>
>
»
When I think of man-pris, I think of euro-trekker girly men. When I initially put them on, I felt like I borrowed my little brother's pants; I was thankful I would initially be testing alone so I could avoid ridicule from my testosterone-driven peers.
Image 1 of 6

When I think of man-pris, I think of euro-trekker girly men. When I initially put them on, I felt like I borrowed my little brother's pants; I was thankful I would initially be testing alone so I could avoid ridicule from my testosterone-driven peers.

READERS COMMENTS

Page 1 | 2

Eh. They still look girly.
— Corwin

Sweet...this clothing item has been popular for a few years now in the skydiving community. Very practical in warm weather and perfect for the ride to altitude or the walk to the lounge area. But if you're anxious about your "stud" index just from the pants you wear, perhaps the universe is speaking to you.
— Gary

I use a pair of Mountain Hardwear Basin 3/4 Pants (man-pris) and love them. They are definitely my fave pair of hiking, backpacking, climbing pants. Tremendous range of movement. Lightweight and airy for the warmer days, yet plenty of coverage for the cooler ones.
— Eli

One can't help but notice the reviewer didn't show his face in the pics.
— Peter Lake

Uh, I don't think so
— Diver

Man-pris is not the proper name for this article of clothing. "Girly- I dare you to wear them in Wyoming" pants is more appropriate
— Jim Larsen

I have a mountain hardwear kilt and love hiking in it, but just can't get behind the man-pris.
— Austin Baldwin

I have a pair...REI brand. I've caught more than enough comments..."clam diggers"..."pedal pushers"...etc; but I don't care. They are perfect for climbing and hiking, tough as nails and keep my knees from getting banged up. Funniest part is...the ones that make fun are inevitably the ones the follow up with "So, where'dya get them?"
— Ree Griffith

Next time, test drive a Kilt! Underwear optional..heheh
— Peggy

Hmmm, sure does remind me of the knickers I used to have for my 2 week hike thru the Sierra's, a little rock climbing and for my x country skiing. A very sturdy wool, heavier in the butt and knees. Looks to me like an update of this classic garment??? lol
— Bob C


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