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Eli Schmidt

18 Best Polo Shirts for Men 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Forget boring, business-casual vibes. These polo shirts are made for both work and play.

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To be honest, the polo shirt hasn't had the easiest time. For a while, it was shorthand for a kind of office schlub, and then it became the de facto uniform of Wall Street postgrads and lawn-mowing dads alike. It's been a struggle. So we get why you'd be hesitant to don this type of shirt. But in acknowledging the polo's checkered past, we hope we've also given you a solid foundation to trust us when we tell you the polo is back, baby, and it's looking better than ever.

A polo not only makes a great layering piece under a blazer, sweater, or cardigan, but it's also one of the smartest items of clothing you will own. To help you choose, our fashion experts tested and reviewed various options, from classic Ralph Lauren styles to knits and mid-century-ish versions, to find the 18 best. Go on, check 'em out for yourself.

best performance polo

Everlane Performance Polo

Performance Polo
Now 45% Off
$36 at Everlane
Pros
  • Sweat-wicking fabric
  • Stretchy
  • Quick-drying, anti-odor technology
Cons
  • Buyers report it's tight for broader shoulders

A go-to option if ever there was one, Everlane's polo is versatile enough to go from the green to the office. Ideal for those who are looking for both performance and comfort, it features a stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric that maintains the shirt's sleek, nontechnical appearance. It also boasts a hidden-button placket for a polished look and two-way stretch to ensure unrestricted movement.

One reviewer says:

"Looks great, and there is no shrinking or color loss during each wash."

MaterialCotton, Elastane
SizesXS–XXL
ColorsBlack, White
FitStandard
best stylish polo

Todd Snyder Montauk Polo Shirt

Montauk Polo Shirt
Pros
  • Color doesn't fade in wash
  • Convenient chest pocket
Cons
  • Buyers report it runs short

Leave it to Todd Snyder to turn a polo—so often considered a staple of East Coast prep—into a paragon of laid-back, West Coast style. This one with contrast piping is relaxed, button-free, and made from the brand's signature "Homespun Slub"—a ring-spun cotton yarn that provides a soft, rustic feel. Plus, it comes in a variety of bright, summery colors, so don't feel shy about stocking up on a few.

One reviewer says:

"Love the no-button styling that sets this shirt apart from your typical polo."

MaterialCotton
SizesXS–XXL
ColorsBlack, White, Navy, Olive
FitStandard
Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Anti-odor fabric
Cons
  • Buyers report it runs wide

I know what you're thinking. Wait, Hanes makes polo shirts? Well, for under $10, the brand's soft style is basically a steal. It has a classic, versatile look that can be dressed up or down, a standard fit, and (perhaps best of all) anti-odor fabric that you'll come to cherish during the hottest months of the year—so, right now. It also has a tailored three-button placket for a chic vibe and a tearaway tag for itch-free comfort.

One reviewer says:

"I recently purchased a Hanes polo shirt, and it has quickly become a staple in my wardrobe. For an incredibly affordable price, this shirt offers exceptional quality that rivals more expensive brands."

MaterialPolyester, Cotton
SizesXS–6XL
Colors8
FitBoxy
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best athletic polo

Lululemon Evolution Polo Shirt

Evolution Polo Shirt
Pros
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Flexible material designed for golf
Cons
  • More difficult to dress up than other options

Sweat-wicking, odor-preventing fabric makes this the ultimate polo for an active day. Although Lululemon designed it for golfing, you'll realize you can take this classic style out for a spin just about anywhere. We especially like how this option is made with Lycra, meaning it will never stretch out or lose its shape, which also helps create a slimming effect from your chest down to your waist.

One reviewer says:

"I love these. The size is consistent every time I buy one. Best golf shirt I own and way better pricing compared to some other high-end brands."

MaterialPolyester, Lyocell, Elastane, Nylon
SizesXS–5XL
ColorsHeathered Black, Black, Nautical Navy, Iron Blue, Trench
FitSlim
best go-to polo

Polo Ralph Lauren Iconic Polo Shirt

Iconic Polo Shirt
Pros
  • Foolproof style
  • Plenty of color options
  • Breathable fabric
Cons
  • On the pricier side
  • Ribbed arm cuffs can squeeze wider arms

We dare you to name one thing more classic than a Ralph Lauren polo. (We'll wait.) With a wide range of colors, relaxed cotton mesh fabric, and an infallibly chic style, this is an option that will never do you wrong. Even though this is a reimagined version, it retains the quality and attention to detail of the iconic original.

One reviewer says:

"This shirt is lightweight, soft on the skin, and breathable; it's my everyday work shirt."

MaterialCotton
SizesXS–XXL
Colors63
FitStandard
best luxe polo

Gucci GG Polo

GG Polo
Pros
  • Bold, classy look
  • Has all-over embroidery
Cons
  • Pricey

For a classy statement look, there's no going wrong with Gucci. Inspired by the summer spirit of the Italian coast, this polo features the brand's signature motif reworked in all-over embroidery and layered over a dark-blue stretch cotton base. Picture it: this polo with khakis and leather sandals, plus the best thing on the menu, on a warm summer evening.

One reviewer says:

"The detail in this shirt is phenomenal and is great quality."

Material93% Cotton, 7% Elastane
SizesXS-3XL
ColorsDark Blue, White
FitBoxy
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best all-occasion polo

Gap Polo Shirt

On Sale
Polo Shirt
Pros
  • Has plenty of stretch
  • Great price
Cons
  • Not the most luxe look and feel

Gap is all about serving up basic, comfortable pieces at great prices. And this polo is the perfect example. We like how easy it is to care for this shirt—throw it in the wash on the gentle cycle and you're good to go. And we especially like how it's made from responsibly sourced materials. You can dress it up or down, but just know you'll be wearing it a lot.

One reviewer says:

"Fits as described with lots of room."

Material98% Cotton, 2% Elastane
SizesXS-3XL
Colors19
FitStandard
best versatile polo

Amazon Essentials Polo Shirt

Polo Shirt
Pros
  • Lightweight, breathable fabric
  • Can be dressed up or down
  • Side vents for mobility
Cons
  • Buyers report fabric retains stains
  • Color isn't an exact match to images

With an easy fit through the shoulders, chest, and waist, this Amazon Essentials polo shirt can be worn with slacks and loafers or jeans and sneakers—whatever the occasion, it'll rise right to it. Our testers noted how breathable and lightweight the fabric is and thought the side vents helped keep their movement unrestricted.

One reviewer says:

"This shirt is easy to wash and can be hung up with minimal wrinkles. It looks really good and is comfortable to wear."

Material100% Cotton
SizesXS-2XL
ColorsNavy
FitStandard
best simple polo

Banana Republic Luxury-Touch Polo

Luxury-Touch Polo
Pros
  • Anti-odor, moisture-wicking fabric
  • Vented sides for flexibility
Cons
  • No distinctive look or features

Soft to the touch and stylish, this is a go-to option if you want a no-nonsense polo. Pair it with jeans, trousers, or even shorts; you can't go wrong. And while we love the classic white option, if you're looking for something a little bolder, it comes in eight other eye-catching colors.

One reviewer says:

"This shirt fits amazingly; it's not too loose or tight. The staple colors look really good and go with just about anything you have in your closet."

Material100% Cotton
SizesXS-2XL
Colors5
FitStandard
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best cool polo

Percival Casa Martini Polo

Casa Martini Polo

Percival's knit polo is great for the warmer months because it's lightweight, stylish, and oh-so-soft. But when you want to stay cool but aren't afraid to mix things up a bit, this is the way to go. We suggest pairing it with a linen suit or layering it under an overshirt.

One reviewer says:

"This is one of those items I look forward to wearing. The cotton is of exceptional quality, and the fit is great."

Material100% Cotton
SizesXS-2XL
ColorsNavy
FitRelaxed
best golfing polo

Vuori Strato Tech Polo

Strato Tech Polo
Pros
  • Four-way stretch
  • Moisture-wicking, anti-odor fabric
  • UPF 30 rated
Cons
  • Fabric is thin

On the rare occasion when you actually intend to wear your polo to the golf course, Vuori's knit version is perfect for doing just that. This style is a bestseller for a reason: It's crafted with four-way stretch, has anti-odor properties, and is built with UPF materials. Plus, it's quick drying and moisture wicking, so you'll keep cool in the heat.

One reviewer says:

"I look forward to any time I get to wear this polo. I am so excited about it that I've already ordered it in multiple other colors. My only advice is to size up because it tends to run on the smaller side."

MaterialPolyester, Elastane
SizesS–XXL
Colors12
FitAthletic
best designer polo

Burberry Polo Shirt

Polo Shirt
Pros
  • Sleek and elegant
  • High-quality construction
  • Easy to dress up or down
Cons
  • $$$
  • Tonal branding is nearly invisible (though this could also be a pro, depending on your perspective)

Burberry knows its way around the classics. This polo is smart and sharp, with a slim fit, a subtle embroidered logo, and all the understated elegance that money can buy. We like how the herringbone stitches around the collar give it a cool textured effect while adding strength and durability, so it will never lose its shape.

One reviewer says:

"You get what you pay for, and this Burberry polo shirt is worth every penny. It's made with incredible attention to detail, and I know that it's an investment that will last me for years to come."

MaterialCotton
SizesXS–XXL
ColorsBlack, Midnight Blue
FitStandard
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best OG polo

Lacoste Original Polo

Original Polo
Pros
  • High-quality mother-of-pearl buttons
  • Iconic look
Cons
  • Buyers report fabric feels thin
  • Inconsistent sizing

Lacoste made its very first polo shirt in 1933, so basically, these guys are the OGs. Featuring a collar, a button placket, and petit piqué fabric, this classic piece revolutionized elegant sportswear and enhanced freedom of movement. It is meticulously crafted using 20 kilometers of thread, knitted under two levels of tension, and adorned with a crocodile logo made of 2,367 stitches. If any brand has perfected the art form it created, it's Lacoste.

One reviewer says:

"The fabric is a dream to wear, soft against the skin, and surprisingly breathable. I've worn it on warm summer days, and it kept me cool and comfortable throughout the day."

MaterialCotton
SizesXXS–5XL
Colors32
FitStandard
best sueded cotton polo

Buck Mason Sueded Cotton Polo

Sueded Cotton Polo
Pros
  • Small-batch dye process gives it a unique, vintage look
  • Cotton has been sueded for extra softness
Cons
  • Faded look is hard to dress up

Small-batch garment dyeing creates a timeworn effect in this faded wash. It's not suede—it's sueded for softness. With a two-button mitered placket, slim cut, and straight hem, this option offers the ultimate lived-in look. It feels like your favorite T-shirt but with the polish of a classic polo.

One reviewer says:

"The fabric is soft and breathable, making this polo ideal for any occasion. Whether I'm dressing it up with a blazer or keeping it casual with jeans, it's a versatile foundation for countless outfits."

MaterialCotton
SizesXS–XXL
Colors9
FitSlim
best embroidered polo

Dior Polo Shirt

Polo Shirt
Pros
  • Sleek, high-end look
  • Super soft
Cons
  • $$$

Dior's iconic bee makes an appearance on this subtly striped polo shirt. Made from cotton piqué, it's accented with thin contrasting bands on the collar and sleeve cuffs, which our editors thought made it stand out from other designer polo options. Luxury meets function in elegant ergonomics with this pick.

One reviewer says:

"It's the only polo I'll ever wear again."

MaterialCotton
SizesXXS–3XL
ColorsBlack
FitStandard
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best logo polo

Stone Island Polo Shirt

Polo Shirt
Pros
  • High-quality construction
  • Chic, unique look
Cons
  • Those with broad shoulders need to size up

The Stone Island logo is basically a seal of approval at this point—especially on a polo this sharp. The brand is known for its unique approach to fabrication through a range of dyeing techniques and surface treatments, after all. Its pieces have been a uniform for subcultures since the 1980s, and styles like this remain a solid choice today.

One reviewer says:

"This polo is a classic and instantly gives me a confidence boost when I throw it on."

MaterialCotton, Elastane
SizesXS–3XL
ColorsNavy, Army Green, Purple, Black, White
FitStandard
best basic polo

Uniqlo Polo Shirt

Polo Shirt
Pros
  • Great price
  • Lightweight fabric is moisture wicking and resistant to pilling
  • Maintains shape after washing
Cons
  • Runs short
  • Color isn't an exact match to images

Uniqlo is doing what Uniqlo does best here: providing simple, well-made basics at fantastic prices. This polo is affordable, versatile, and lightweight, making it ideal for those long, hot summer days. Our testers pointed out how the quick-drying fabric makes it suitable for just about any activity without having to worry about embarrassing sweat stains.

One reviewer says:

"This shirt fits very well. It has excellent quality and price."

MaterialCotton, Polyester
Sizes2XS-3XL
ColorsBlack, Blue, Navy, Gray, White
FitStandard
softest polo

Naadam Fancy Polo

Fancy Polo
Pros
  • High-quality, sustainable cashmere
  • Lightweight yet warm
Cons
  • Runs small

It's in the name: This is fancy. But not too fancy. Featuring a relaxed point collar, a three-button neckline, and a silky-soft feel, this option is made with 100 percent Mongolian cashmere fabric, so you'll certainly feel like a king in it.

One reviewer says:

"Excellent quality for a modest price. The style is timeless and elegant. The cashmere is super soft and breathable to regulate your body temperature, keeping you warm and cool with the change of temperature around you. After I bought my first polo, I went back to the Naadam website and I bought all the other colors."

MaterialCashmere
SizesXS-2XL
ColorsNavy, Black, Cement, Timber
FitStandard
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Get More of Our Favorite Menswear Essentials

shape, rectangle

Tips for Choosing the Best Polo Shirt

shape, rectangle

Think of these five things when you're shopping for a polo shirt: fabric, style, occasion, color, and buttons. We've done some of the work for you by indicating the fabric and fit of every polo on this list, so whether you want a slim, quick-drying, moisture-wicking option to wear on the golf course or a standard-fitting cashmere option to dress up for work, you're not short of choices.

Style and Occasion
Style and occasion are two elements that go hand in hand. A bold look, like a polo from Gucci or Casablanca, probably isn't your best bet if you prefer an understated, minimalist vibe, but something just as high-end—like the bee-embroidered pick from Dior—will do perfectly. If you're just going to work, chances are you can get away with almost any option. But we wouldn't recommend wearing, say, the Lululemon or Vuori polo to a formal dinner. Like any piece of clothing, always think of where you'll be wearing it before you make the purchase. If you're the type of guy who travels a lot, you'll want to look for polos that are made of wrinkle-resistant materials and that can easily be paired with what you pack in your suitcase, but if you're just planning on wearing it casually, those restrictions don't apply.

Color
If you're building out your wardrobe or just looking for staples that will go with the things you already have, you'll want to purchase a polo in a basic color like white, black, gray, or navy. Trust us when we say that this rotation will become the most frequented in your closet. But, of course, you should also add some colorful patterned polos to your arsenal for special events, nights out, and, hell, even weddings.

Buttons
When shopping for polos, one of the first things you'll notice is the number of buttons. There are options with two, three, or four buttons (while some have none and opt for a zip-up style instead), but our general rule of thumb is that the more buttons you have, the more formal the shirt will look. So if you want an elevated look, remember, the more buttons, the merrier.

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