Brynje of Norway technical clothing

Brynje is a legendary Norwegian brand that revolutionized outdoor apparel with the invention of the mesh base layer. The brand's history dates back to 1887 in Larvik, Norway, where it began as a family-owned textile business. Its most famous contribution to the textile world occurred in the early 1950s when it developed the synthetic mesh underwear used by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay during the first successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953.

While the brand maintains its design, development, and a specialized workshop in Norway, it has transitioned much of its high-volume production to modern facilities in Europe, notably Poland, to ensure high technical standards. The company remains deeply rooted in its heritage, continuing to provide equipment for cold-climate expeditions and professional users who require moisture management and thermal regulation in extreme conditions.

As of 2026, Brynje of Norway remains an independent, family-controlled company. It is currently managed and owned by descendants of the founding family through the company Brynje AS. This independence has allowed the brand to maintain its focus on niche, high-quality technical products rather than mass-market fashion, preserving its reputation as a preferred choice for Arctic and Antarctic explorers.