Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?
The 20 Best Polo Shirts for Men in 2023, Tested by Style Editors
Amp up your wardrobe with modern takes on this menswear staple.
IN THE menswear universe, few wardrobe essentials can match the oomph of a polo shirt. While it first set out its “sartorial icon” power trip as a dress code for tennis players in the early 20th century, today, it’s a mainstay worn by just about every lad because, no matter the occasion, the best polo shirts can help your fits go the extra mile.
The magic of the polo shirt flows from its versatility that meets halfway between casual and formal. Contemplating dressing up? Sport it with crisp chinos and dress shoes for a smart(er) office fit. And dressing down with polo shirts has never been easier, whether it’s over swim trunks for beach styles or tucked in jeans for a nonchalant flex.
In addition, the polo shirt is one of the most flattering casual shirts for guys in great, athletic shape. A perfect fit is key. Most advanced-level menswear enthusiasts (who are probably not reading this) are opting for uber-relaxed shirts. But for us fashion mortals who want a reliable polo shirt to add to our uniform, a streamlined silhouette that's fitted-but-not-tight can show off your upper physique, and a tapered short sleeve can let your guns breathe.
So take a look at our picks of the 20 best polo shirts for men below, tested by our own editors across a range of occasions.
Best T-Shirts | Best Button-Down Shirts | Best Long-Sleeve T-Shirts | Best Knitted Polo Shirts
Lacoste L.12.12 Pique Polo Shirt
Lacoste L.12.12 Pique Polo Shirt
Pros
- OG style, classic fit
- Signature embroidery
- Mother of pearl buttons
Cons
- Not for standing out in style
The Time-Tested, Tried-and-True Classic
Of course, we have the OG pique polo that started it all. There’s a reason why the Lacoste tennis polo has been a staple since the 30s—it’s classic, sleek, and will never go out of style. For US Open or just your weekend downtime.
My favorite part about this polo shirt is its classic fit and tried-and-true comfort. It gives you enough room in the torso and bicep to breathe without hiding away all your gains. The 100% piqué knit cotton to me has always felt soft and durable, no matter how many times I’ve washed it.
Material | 100% Cotton |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Amazon Essentials Cotton Pique Polo
Amazon Essentials Cotton Pique Polo
Pros
- Under $20 with a classic pique cut
- Versatile style
Cons
- Performance won't wow you
A Budget Find That Lasts
If you're looking for a wallet-friendly polo, then you can't go wrong with one from Amazon Essentials. For less than $20 you can get a classic pique polo that's vibrant and well-fitting. The best part is if it starts to fall apart you can quickly re-up and have it at your doorstep ASAP.
And even though it’s cheap, I was not disappointed by its quality. Sure, it can’t stay wrinkle-resistant or moisture-wicking like performance polos, but as everyday polos, it’s got a classic cut and style that have matched well with my jeans and chinos. I had to be extra careful of washing it, of course, so that it could last longer.
Material | 100% Cotton |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Polo Ralph Lauren The Iconic Mesh Polo Shirt for Men
Polo Ralph Lauren The Iconic Mesh Polo Shirt for Men
Pros
- Iconic recognizable style
- Ultra-soft finish and versatile styling
Cons
- Not for standing out in style
The Can't-Go-Wrong Best-Seller
The beauty of a Polo Ralph Lauren top is that you know it will never go out of style. After all, the clothing brand you know and love makes some of the best polo shirts for men out there. You’ll wear it everywhere (to work, on the weekends, and so on) for years and years.
In my experience of wearing Ralph Lauren’s polo shirts across different colors, I’m never not satisfied by how breathable its soft fabric is. No wonder it's selected to be tested by our Fashion Director Ted Stafford and to be fitted on Scream VI star Mason Gooding.
Material | 100% cotton |
---|---|
Fit | Classic, custom slim, slim |
Pros
- Sueded for extra softness
- Versatile for dressing up or down
- Straight hem that can be tucked in easily
Cons
- Not for sweaty days
Comfortable and Versatile
Sometimes your polo collection could use a little vintage garment. As seen on Bullet Train Star Andrew Koji and washed for a lived-in look, Buck Mason’s polo looks rugged, "feels broken-in like your favorite sweats, while its suede finish keeps it looking sharp."
In addition to being tested by our Fashion Director Ted Stafford, what I love most about this polo is that it’s sueded for extra softness. While it’s got no stretch, traveling in it has also felt much more comfortable compared to ordinary cotton polos. I also dig its versatility: I’ve paired it with anything from sweat shorts to work pants, and it has held out well on its own.
Material | Sueded 145 GSM cotton jersey |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Lululemon Evolution Short Sleeve Polo Shirt
Lululemon Evolution Short Sleeve Polo Shirt
Pros
- Ample stretch that allows full range of motion
- Crisp collar that stays upright
- Sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and breathable
Cons
- Fits slim for bigger arms
A Polo That Performs
Fashion meets function with this breathable polo thanks to its anti-stink technology and on-trend design. This Lulu polo is specifically made for the links, but we wouldn't knock you for wearing it just as much off the course.
Our colleagues did in fact wear this polo to the golf course. Not only did we not mind the slim sleeves which accentuated our biceps, but we were also utterly satisfied by how movement-friendly the fabric is. After a few swings nonetheless, the fabric managed to stay dry and in shape.
Read more: Best Golf Shirts
Material | 82% Polyester, 10% Lyocell, 5% Lycra® elastane, 3% X-static® nylon |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Pros
- Four-way stretch
- Features collar-stay tech
- Incredibly wrinkle-resistant
Cons
- Can pile a bit at the armpit
Your Everyday Go-To Shirt
A polo with a flattering fit and top-tier comfort is hard to come by. That's why we can't help but love TravisMathew's Zinna polo. It's breathable, soft, lightweight, and looks dang good on any type of body. It's an all-American polo if we say so ourselves.
Personally, I’ve dealt with polo shirts that lose their shape after a few wears, which is why I love Zinna for its durability. Its collar has always stayed up (thanks to the brand’s Collar-stay tech). It has also been my default short-sleeve shirt for running errands—when the weather gets hot and the road gets long, the four-way stretch and breathability always come in clutch.
Material | Cotton, polyester Blend |
---|---|
Fit | Modern |
Sunspel Riviera Polo Shirt
Sunspel Riviera Polo Shirt
Pros
- Simple elegance
- A slim fit with shorter arms that flatters your physique
Cons
- Expensive
Understated Style and Comfort
If this polo is good enough for James Bond, it's good enough for us. Daniel Craig looked sharp sporting this shirt, specifically tailored for his James Bond debut, in Casino Royale.
On me, and possibly on you, the style of this modern classic is unquestionable. But over time, I’ve started to incorporate this polo as a part of my go-to fits because of how soft, light, and breathable it feels especially on warmer days, sharpening me up while keeping me cool.
Material | 100% Supima Cotton |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Pros
- Four-Way Stretch, UPF 30+, Moisture Wicking
- Stiff collar that stays stiff
Cons
- Fits tight for big guys
Lightweight But Tough
Vuori meticulously engineered the Ace Polo to be as light and comfortable as possible. It provides the appearance of a classic pocket polo with the performance of athletic apparel. It's perfect for warm weather vacations, knocking out your weekend to-do list, or getting in 18 holes.
While wearing it, the three-button design does feel a bit tight and I had to always leave one open. But I was surprised by how elevated it looks, especially under a blazer or with a suit. Along with its performance feats, it’s the polo that I now rely on for any elevated travel occasion.
Material | 50% Recycled Polyester, 50% Polyester |
---|---|
Fit | Modern tailored |
Mack Weldon Silver Pique Polo
Mack Weldon Silver Pique Polo
Pros
- Anti-odor and four-way stretch
- Elevated look with a structured collar
Cons
- Fabric is a bit thin
Your Everyday Polo, But Better
Made from the brand’s signature softer-than-soft fabric that’ll stay fresh and crisp wash after wash, this polo is coupled with a four-way stretch, antimicrobial fabric, and a collar that won’t move around, this polo is truly ready for it all.
When I tried this on, I did notice that the fabric leans a bit to the thinner side—which is probably intended. But everything else about it amazed me. Because of its performance build with lycra, polyester, and anti-odor silver, I was able to do some light exercises and jogs in it, and it still managed to stay fresh.
Material | 87% Supima Cotton/ 10% ionic+™ Polyester/ 3% Lycra |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Proof 72-Hour Merino Polo
Proof 72-Hour Merino Polo
Pros
- Moisture-wicking, odor-resisting, and temperature-regulating
- Stretchy and durable
Cons
- Not for standing out in style
Merino Wool Performance on a Polo Shirt
Cut from premium 16.5-micron merino wool, this moisture-wicking shirt was made for marathon flights and multi-day wear (it's called the 72-Hour for a reason). Merino wool is naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant, which hits on all of the key features a polo needs for the traveling grind.
To test out its merino wool performance, I’ve in fact packed this polo for a recent trip and worn it to trail, walk, and commute for a few days. At the end of the day, when I did take it off, I was delighted to find out that it did remain as fresh as when I first put it on, after all those hours of traveling in it.
Material | 89% 16.5 micron merino wool, 11% nylon |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Pros
- Versatile for athleisure or business casual
- Easy to keep tucked in or out
- Self-cooling breathable fabric
Cons
A Godsend for Warm Weather
Ideal for the dude on the go or who runs hot, this lightweight, moisture-wicking polo shirt is made for your active lifestyle. Not only is it made with a self-cooling pique mesh fabric that has kept me feeling fresh and crisp, at work or in the game, but its perfect fit also gives me that desired untucked look (i.e. won’t bunch around your bottom area).
Material | 67% polyester, 30% Tencel® lyocell, 3% elastane |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Peter Millar Solid Performance Jersey Polo
Peter Millar Solid Performance Jersey Polo
Pros
- Great for sports or golf or sweaty occasions
- Four-way stretch for mobility
- Low-maintenance
Cons
- Length is a bit long
A Polo That Does It All
While it's dressy enough for the office, the tapestry of tech feats in this polo—four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, UPF 50+, antimicrobial properties—can make your time spent outdoors worthwhile, on or off the course.
When I tried this on for the first time, I was taken away by how smooth and cool it felt. Then, when I did a few hikes in it, its stretch and quick-drying properties came in like a wrecking ball to keep me cozy, which is why it also works as a great golf shirt.
Material | 92% polyester, 8% spandex |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Todd Snyder Italian Cotton Silk Tipped Riviera Sweater Polo
Todd Snyder Italian Cotton Silk Tipped Riviera Sweater Polo
Pros
- Textured, long-lasting cotton-silk yarn
- Retro style that just looks good
- Elevated style that's versatile for dressing up or down
Cons
- Expensive
A Retro Style That Just Works
Whether it’s on Jude Law as Dickie Greenleaf from The Talented Mr. Ripley or on Leonardo DiCaprio from Catch Me If You Can, the sweater polo as a retro style staple is no stranger to the big silver screen; and after its comeback last summer, we doubt it’ll ever go away anytime soon.
My favorite parts about this sweater polo are its comfort and versatility. Made with cotton-silk yarn to feel softer than ever, it's managed to stay fresh throughout my summer. Its sophisticated ribbed texture also renders it extra versatile—whether it’s with swim trunks, jeans, chinos, or even sweat shorts, the polo makes me look sharp and elevated each time.
Material | 55% Silk, 45% Cotton |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Under Armour UA Tech™ Polo
Under Armour UA Tech™ Polo
Pros
- Under $50
- Fabric wicks sweat and dries fast
- Feels soft, light & breathable
Cons
- Not for dressing up
Workouts- and Outdoors-Friendly
This sports-friendly training polo is made with a soft, light, and breathable fabric that won't overheat you—and certainly won't break the bank. Keeping you cool, loose, and easy 24/7, this performance polo can anchor any casual outdoors fit.
Really, the performance of this polo is one for the books. Whether it’s for going on the course or going out fishing, my colleague was impressed by its anti-sweat and anti-odor qualities. But my favorite part is its fit: broad at the chest and tapered down the waist, it gives me the athletic look that buff guys like.
Read more: Best Workout Shirts for Men
Material | 100% Polyester |
---|---|
Fit | Streamlined |
Fair Harbor Atlantic Polo
Fair Harbor Atlantic Polo
Pros
- Sun-drenched for a worn-in look
- Soft and breathable
Cons
- Can be a bit short for tall guys
The Bang for Your Buck
When you want the crisp feel of a camp shirt but you love the look of a polo, Fair Harbor will have you covered. Breathable and lightweight, the Atlantic Polo also comes with a sun-drenched wash to look lived-in. At under $70, it can be easily dressed up or down, for your nightlife or your office life.
While the soft, breathable comfort is what initially attracted me to wear this polo shirt on downtown or Friday nights, thanks to its partially polyester build, I’ve grown to appreciate it for its sweat-wicking qualities. Really, at this price, with this look, it’s a no-brainer.
Material | 52% Organic Cotton, 48% Recycled Polyester |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Luca Faloni Brera Piqué Polo Shirt
Luca Faloni Brera Piqué Polo Shirt
Pros
- Durable, soft, and breathable fabric
- Collar stays upright
- Sleeves are easy to roll up for summer
Cons
- Expensive
The Versatile Layer
Whether you want to go preppy by wrapping another shirt around it, look elevated by wearing it with chinos, or layer it under a blazer for an evening fit, this polo with the cuff of a button-down shirt is versatile enough to do it all.
Even on summer days, I can still roll up my sleeves to stay cool in this polo. However, I like to layer this polo under a blazer and pair it with dress pants for an elevated business casual look. The price point is a bit inflated (we know) but when you factor in how long it will last you're better off making the jump up.
Material | breathable cotton pique |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Vince Wool and Cashmere Birdseye Polo
Vince Wool and Cashmere Birdseye Polo
Pros
- Perfect for an elevated, smart/business casual look
- Fit flatters buff guys and athletic bodies
Cons
- Expensive and not sporty
The Investment-Worthy Piece
Bros lead Luke Macfarlane coins his style as "Classic American Heritage Workwear… durability over style. Form-fitting when possible.” With that in mind, our Fashion Director tested and hand-picked this polo by Vince which not only flatters his athletic physique, but also aligns with his style principles on durability and ruggedness. In a sophisticated Birdseye pattern and soft-as-butter wool-and-cashmere build, this polo shirt can truly elevate your wardrobe and thus is worth the investment.
Material | 80% Wool, 20% cashmere |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Pros
- Great for a casual look that's still elevated
- Easy zip placket and extra soft
Cons
- Not for sweaty occasions
Smart Design Meets Sharp Style
Tested and hand-picked by our Fashion Director Ted Stafford, this polo uses a simple twist in closure—zip, instead of buttons—to turn the classic silhouette into one of your wardrobe’s boldest styles. Hence, it's chosen as part of this spring's boldest styles and co-signed by fitfluencers. Best for dressing down, this sporty polo shirt can still look elevated even if all I'm wearing with it are chino shorts and white sneakers.
Material | 100% soft pima cotton |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Brooks Brothers Marine Stripe Long Sleeve Polo
Brooks Brothers Marine Stripe Long Sleeve Polo
Pros
- Long sleeves for colder weather
- Dress it down with jeans or up with a blazer
- Will never go out of style
Cons
- Not for summer
Sporty But Sharp Style
Blue-on-white horizontal stripes were worn by the French Navy in the 1800s and they have been associated with nautical style ever since. Brooks Brothers placed them on this long sleeve polo, giving the appearance of a rugby shirt. However, in my experience of wearing this polo, its lightweight fabric keeps the comfort of a polo shirt. And I was amazed by its versatility: with sweat shorts or chinos or jeans, this rugby polo has managed to make me look sporty yet sharp.
Material | 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
wilson Kramer Seamless Polo
wilson Kramer Seamless Polo
Pros
- Seamless construction
- Anti-odor and breathable
- Stretchy for movements
Cons
- In only 2 colors
Works on and off the Course
Wilson's Kramer polo is packed with odor-fighting, sweat-wicking technology, such as how its ventilation is woven into high-sweat areas, making it ideal for hot-weather outings and sports days in summer. But our testers also love its toned-down monogrammed style, seamless comfort, and how its collar has stayed upright wash after wash.
Material | Circular knit |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Maverick Li is the Style & Commerce Editor of Men’s Health, where he covers clothing, footwear, watches, and grooming. He was previously the Assistant Commerce Editor at Esquire.