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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.
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.
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."
Material | Cotton, Elastane |
---|---|
Sizes | XS–XXL |
Colors | Black, White |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS–XXL |
Colors | Black, White, Navy, Olive |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | Polyester, Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS–6XL |
Colors | 8 |
Fit | Boxy |
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."
Material | Polyester, Lyocell, Elastane, Nylon |
---|---|
Sizes | XS–5XL |
Colors | Heathered Black, Black, Nautical Navy, Iron Blue, Trench |
Fit | Slim |
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."
Material | Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS–XXL |
Colors | 63 |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | 93% Cotton, 7% Elastane |
---|---|
Sizes | XS-3XL |
Colors | Dark Blue, White |
Fit | Boxy |
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."
Material | 98% Cotton, 2% Elastane |
---|---|
Sizes | XS-3XL |
Colors | 19 |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | 100% Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS-2XL |
Colors | Navy |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | 100% Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS-2XL |
Colors | 5 |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | 100% Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS-2XL |
Colors | Navy |
Fit | Relaxed |
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."
Material | Polyester, Elastane |
---|---|
Sizes | S–XXL |
Colors | 12 |
Fit | Athletic |
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."
Material | Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS–XXL |
Colors | Black, Midnight Blue |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XXS–5XL |
Colors | 32 |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS–XXL |
Colors | 9 |
Fit | Slim |
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."
Material | Cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XXS–3XL |
Colors | Black |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | Cotton, Elastane |
---|---|
Sizes | XS–3XL |
Colors | Navy, Army Green, Purple, Black, White |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | Cotton, Polyester |
---|---|
Sizes | 2XS-3XL |
Colors | Black, Blue, Navy, Gray, White |
Fit | Standard |
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."
Material | Cashmere |
---|---|
Sizes | XS-2XL |
Colors | Navy, Black, Cement, Timber |
Fit | Standard |
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Tips for Choosing the Best Polo Shirt
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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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