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The 9 Best Polo Shirts For Men, According To Style Experts

Reviewed By Kari Molvar

A bit dressier than a T-shirt but less formal than a button-down, a polo shirt is a versatile addition to any man’s wardrobe. After ranking and reviewing several options, we landed on the nine best polo shirts for men: Our top pick is the Huckberry’s Proof 72-Hour Polo Shirt, which is naturally odor resistant and breathable for all-day wear. Meanwhile, the Tommy Hilfiger Short Sleeve Polo Shirt is the best affordable pick—it offers a relaxed-yet-tailored fit for under $50.

Here’s how we evaluated the contenders: Our team rated each polo on fabric content, fit (classic to relaxed to slim), style (collar design, buttons), quality and price. Forbes Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar and Kyle Albrecht, founder and lead stylist at Social Garb, each weighed in on the final picks and shared additional expert shopping tips. Below, find our top picks for the best men’s polo shirts.

Best Polo Shirt For Men Overall

Odor-Repelling, Moisture-Wicking And Stylish

MOST POPULAR

Huckberry Proof 72-Hour Merino

Sizes: XS to 3XL | Colors: 10 total, including Navy and Charcoal Heather | Material: 87% micron merino wool, 13% nylon | Number of buttons: 3 | Fit: Classic

  • What’s notable: The breathable merino fabric resists sweat and smells, it has comfortable snap buttons and built in UPF 30+ for sun protection.
  • What could be better: This style can run small, and some reviewers find the fabric to be thin.

Huckberry focuses on rugged-yet-refined apparel meant for active days. Its 72-Hour Merino Polo impressed us with its temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking merino fabric that’sboth soft to the touch and odor-resistant. “This is a higher end fabrication, but it’s also easy to maintain,” says Albrecht. The polo comes in a range of stylish colors and sizes up to 3XL. And, the price is affordable compared to other more expensive polos on the market, making this an excellent choice overall.

What our editor says: “Huckberry thoroughly tests its clothing in the field, which I appreciate. Its polo combines a performance fabric with stylish design touches, so you can wear it for work, travel or high-activity days. This versatility and quality made it our top pick.”


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Best Polo Shirt For Work

A Polo You Can Layer Under A Suit

Bonobos Stretch Piqué

Sizes: XS to 2XL | Colors: 13 total, including White and Teal Birdseye | Material: 98% pima cotton, 2% spandex | Number of buttons: 3 | Fit: Standard, slim

  • What’s notable: This versatile shirt is great for work, travel or activities, like golf. The built-in stretch in the fabric provides a comfortable fit.
  • What could be better: You have to gently wash and hang dry to maintain its shape.

If you need a polo that’s stylish and work appropriate, Bonobos’ polo scored highest in our review. We like that it’s cut from soft pima cotton with a bit of spandex for stretch and movement. “If you’re choosing one, go-to polo in a classic piqué with good color options and a friendly price point, this is a great option,” says Albrecht. It has a slim fit that pairs well with slacks. Thanks to the breathable, lightweight design, this shirt can easily pull double duty on the golf course or on a plane for travel days.

What our editor says: “This is a smart polo that passed a lot of my tests for what a work shirt should have, from the flat-knit rib trim to the fabric that repels odors, wrinkles and stains.”


Best Affordable Polo Shirt

Bestseller That's Extremely Comfortable

Tommy Hilfiger Classic Short Sleeve

Sizes: XS to 4XL | Colors: 33 total, including Classic White and Cobalt Heather Material: 100% cotton | Number of buttons: 2 | Fit: Classic

  • What’s notable: It offers great value for the price and comes in many colors, from neutrals to brights.
  • What could be better: This style runs large, so bear that in mind when ordering.

Polos comes in many different fits—slim, loose, tapered. If you want a classic option that’s neither too tight or baggy, this Tommy Hilfiger is one of the best fitting. And, with a below-$50 price tag, it won’t break the bank. The short sleeve shirt is cut from cotton piqué fabric that creates a breathable and relaxed design. It’s finished with tailored details, such as ribbing around the hem and collar, for a pulled-together look. “This is a great value option with branding that’s not over the top or too flashy,” says Albrecht. “It comes in lots of great colors and sizes.”

What our editor says: “This polo is made with 100% cotton, which means it will hold up well to wear over time, and delivers a lot of value for an affordable price. I also like that it’s cut looser across the chest and shoulders for comfort, and that it’s machine washable.”


Best Performance Polo Shirt

A Polo That Can Handle Workouts

Lululemon Evolution

Sizes: XS to 3XL | Colors: 6 total, including Blue Willow and Heathered Black | Material: 82% polyester, 10% lyocell, 5% lycra elastane | Number of buttons: 3 | Fit: Slim

  • What’s notable: The sweat-absorbing fabric resists odor-causing bacteria, and it has a nice texture and soft hand feel. The versatile design can be layered under a jacket or worn solo.
  • What could be better: Some reviewers find it runs small in the chest.

If you’re constantly active and on the go, you need a polo that can stand up to sweat and movement without getting wrinkled or coming apart at the seams. Lululemon’s polo is cut from a medium-weight, moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you dry and odor free, so you can be out in the sun or running around. “Lululemon has good consistency in their fit and sizing,” says Albrecht. “The slim profile of this polo is pretty versatile in terms of body types and shapes. It’s modern but not overly tapered at the waistline.”

What our editor says: “While we picked this for the performance polo category, it doesn’t mean you can’t wear this shirt casually—especially if you want to stay cool while out at night or relaxing on the weekends. Lululemon’s clothing tends to be pricey but this polo is actually quite reasonable considering its technical capabilities.”


Best Stylish Polo Shirt

Well-Made Pick That Looks Sharp

Todd Snyder Fine Piqué

Sizes: XS to 2XL | Colors: 7 total, including Olive and Baja Dunes | Material: 51% cotton, 47% Tencel, 2% Lycra | Number of buttons: 3 | Fit: Classic

  • What’s notable: This high quality, durable and stylish design won’t shrink in the wash.
  • What could be better: It’s on the expensive side.

If you’re looking for a polo to layer with sweaters or a sports coat or suit, add this one to your wardrobe. “I can’t say enough good things about this brand,” says Albrecht. “Its approach to classic, elevated menswear with a European touch is unparalleled at this price point.” This Todd Snyder pick has a classic design with a three-button placket and structured collar, and is cut from a yarn-dyed, Turkish cotton Tencel blend that makes it soft, fitted and breathable. “You’ll get a really nice soft wear experience with this,” says Albrecht.

What our editor says: “I find that Todd Snyder clothing is often worth the splurge for the impeccable designs and quality materials. This polo has a great textured finish to it, which makes it a bit more interesting than your average polo and it’s easy to dress up or down.”


Best Quality Polo Shirt

A Shirt That Stands The Test Of Time

Polo Ralph Lauren Classic

Sizes: XS to 2XL | Colors: 54 total, including Herbal Milk and Cactus Purple | Material: 100% cotton | Number of buttons: 2 | Fit: Classic

  • What’s notable: This breathable, 100% cotton shirt has a ribbed collar and armbands as well as a longer “tennis tail” for tucking in at the back.
  • What could be better: This style runs small, and the full color selection is only available via Ralph Lauren’s website.

Ralph Lauren is a trusted luxury brand for a reason: Unmatched quality and classic designs. This polo is no exception—there are short sleeves with ribbed armbands, a flat collar and a signature embroidered pony. You can select from dozens of polo colors on the brand’s website, and also add a monogram. The fabric also holds up well over time, since it’s woven from 100% cotton that’s washable. “This is a classic piqué polo,” says Albrecht. “It has vintage appeal, it’s long lasting and wears well over time. You’ll also get great cost per we wear.”

What our editor says: “Ralph Lauren’s polos have a reputation for being some of the best quality—they’re made from heavy cotton and after dozens of washings, the fit is still the same. The embroidered logo is classic yet understated in this design. ”


Best Comfortable Polo Shirt

Super Soft Cotton And A Relaxed Fit

Vineyard Vines St. Jean Stripe Sankaty

Sizes: XS to XXL | Colors: 13 total, including Lighthouse Red and Stripe Hammerhead | Material: 92% polyester, 8% spandex | Number of buttons: 3 | Fit: Relaxed

  • What’s notable: This shirt is cut from quick-drying and moisture wicking fabric, and it has built-in interior collar stays.
  • What could be better: While there are plenty of striped options, there is a limited number of solid shades.

This polo from Vineyard Vines is as easygoing as it gets. The polyester and spandex blend makes the fabric soft against the skin and breezy for days spent outdoors or long hours in the office. It comes fitted with a three-button placket that can be fully buttoned or left undone for a casual feel. The colors are very subtly striped, but if you want solid options, consider the Solid Sankaty Polo. “This polo is polyester and spandex so it can transition well from casual work to the golf course,” says Albrecht. “It’s lightweight, tends to be quite breathable, has UPF 50 protection and wrinkle resistance.”

What our editor says: “If you want a comfortable polo for everything from golfing to running errands, this pick is at the top of my list. Thoughtful features, like the quick-dry and moisture-absorbing fabric, prevent overheating if you run hot, and the fit is relaxed and fluid.”


Best Lightweight Polo Shirt

An Option That's Light As A Feather

Vuori Strato Tech

Sizes: S to XXL | Colors: 9 total, including Toast Heather and Black | Material: 96% polyester, 4% elastane | Placket design: 3 buttons | Fit: Classic

  • What’s notable: The four-way stretch fabric is extremely breathable and light, and it dries quickly.
  • What could be better: This has a more casual feel than some other options, so if you’re looking for something thicker or more structured, you may want a polo cut from cotton piqué.

Vuori’s polo is cut from a technical Strato Tech fabric—a sweat-wicking, soft knit with UPF 30. It’s got an athletic fit that doesn’t cling to the body and is great for long days, when you want optimal coolness and comfort. “Vuori’s fabrications are high end, the price point is friendly, and they have lots of availability in terms of sizing,” says Albrecht. “I also like that they have easy-to-wear color options—the colors are more muted and the earthy, neutral tones are really attractive to lots of guys.”

What our editor says: “Vuori’s polo is a nice blend between sporty and casual; it’s light, airy and dries fast so you can wear it on a bike commute to work, during a business lunch or for a quick workout after work.”


Best Dress Polo Shirt

A Shirt That Is Soft And Stylish

Banana Republic Luxury-Touch

Sizes: XS to XXL | Colors: 8 total, including Optic White and Camel Heather | Material: 100% cotton | Number of buttons: 2 | Fit: Slim

  • What’s notable: It’s cut from a unique, silk-like fabric, it comes in regular and tall sizes and it has vented sides for comfort.
  • What could be better: It’s a slim fit, which may not work for all.

A refined dress polo shirt should be two things: soft and stylish. This one from Banana Republic checks all the boxes—it even absorbs sweat for long days at work. The top is crafted from a performance fabric with a specific “mercerization” treatment that adds additional fluidness to the polo. The combination gives the shirt a silk-like look and reduces shrinkage. “What’s cool about this luxe take on a polo is that it feels like a knit but it’s an accessible construction,” says Albrecht. “The thinner collar is nice because it will lay flat without curling, and the arm bands and the lower hem feel a bit more fitted and design-oriented.”

What our editor says: “I love how you can wear this polo on its own or with a suit. The fit is tailored yet comfortable, which is exactly what you want for a dress polo, and it comes in office-appropriate colors. I’d also suggest this for a wedding or sophisticated evening out.”


Why Trust Forbes Vetted

At Forbes Vetted, our editors and contributors have extensively researched, written and published dozens of fashion stories.

  • The author of this story, Molly Calhoun, is a regular Forbes Vetted contributor who has covered a wide range of menswear topics, including the best men’s T-shirts and the best dress shirts for men.
  • Our fashion coverage is headed by deputy editor Kari Molvar, who is a veteran of lifestyle journalism with over two decades of experience firsthand testing and reviewing products.
  • Calhoun consulted with two style experts for this piece—Molvar and Kyle Albrecht, founder and lead stylist at Social Garb. In addition to reviewing our final selections, Molvar and Albrecht also provided extra insight into what makes a polo shirt worth buying.
  • This article is regularly refreshed to ensure all product information and pricing is accurate. It was last updated by fashion writer Claire Epting in June 2024.


How We Chose The Best Polos For Men

While researching this list, we considered a variety of men’s polo shirts from well-known and trusted brands that specialize in athletic and leisure clothing, as well as those that offer dressier pieces.

  • We took detailed notes on each polo’s fit, fabric, comfort, style, design, versatility and performance details, evaluating their ability to offer benefits like built-in stretch, sweat-wicking comfort and breathability in all types of weather.
  • In addition to our own experience with the brands represented in the list, we read reviews from real users who wore the polos, paying close attention to comments on the fit and sizing and how they retained their shape after washing.
  • The polos with the highest scores went through a final analysis by Molvar, ensuring our selections came in inclusive sizes to fit a diverse range of body types and provided excellent value at reasonable prices.


What To Consider When Shopping For The Best Polos

When it comes to men's fashion, polo shirts have long been a wardrobe staple. “The practicality of a polo shirt is unmatched,” says Albrecht. “You can wear them with a slack or a sneaker—they’re very accessible.” Here are some key shopping pointers to keep in mind:

Fit And Style

A well-fitted polo shirt strikes the balance between slim and relaxed. You want it to move freely over the contours of your body, from the shoulders to the waist, without binding. Length should also be considered. “Your shirt should hit just below your belt line or at your upper fly when it’s untucked,” Albrecht says. “That’s how you can tell if it’s the right fit.” Different occasions call for different fits, too—classic and slim styles are best for dressier situations whereas relaxed designs are comfortable for casual weekends and travel.

The number of buttons can influence the shirt's formality too, with more buttons often indicating a dressier look. “Three buttons is the most traditional,” says Albrecht. “Buttonless is a more modern polo approach.” Button choice is not just functional but also adds to the style of the shirt, so consider your personal preference and the occasion.

Fabric And Materials

“Two of the most common fabric fabrications for polos are cotton piqué or a tech performance blend,” says Albrecht. Piqué knit is a specific weaving technique that gives polo shirts their characteristic waffle-like texture. This knit allows shirts to not only be stretchy and flexible, but breathable as well. While many classic polos are cut from cotton, newer styles also incorporate polyester and synthetic materials. For sportier outings, technical performance fabrics help wick sweat and moisture. Remember that blended fabrics maintain their shape better than pure cotton but may age differently over time, so choose wisely.

Color And Pattern

A well-rounded polo shirt collection includes solid-color staples in classic hues such as white, navy, black or gray. These versatile options can be dressed up or down for various occasions. “Most guys for some reason have a hard time with shades of green, but tones like olive and forest are also easy to integrate into an everyday capsule wardrobe,” says Albrecht. To add a touch of personality and character, consider polo shirts with subtle patterns like stripes or color-blocking, which can be great for vacations, layering or nights out.


What Are The Best Polo Shirt Brands?

While this might be a matter of opinion and will depend on who you ask, there are certain well-known brands that consistently produce high-quality polo shirts, such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, Todd Snyder and Bonobos, among others in this guide. These brands stand out for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. For performance-oriented polo shirts, athleisure brands like Vuori, Lululemon and Vineyard Vines are your best choices.

How Can You Tell The Quality Of A Polo Shirt?

To tell if a polo shirt is high-quality, take a close look at the stitching. There should be no loose threads, and the stitches should be even. The buttonholes should be machine-sewn and tidy, and the collar should be structured. A high-quality polo shirt is smooth to the touch and holds its shape through multiple laundering sessions. A small logo emblazoned on the breast—as seen on our picks from Tommy Hilfiger, Polo Ralph Lauren and Vineyard Vines—is another indicator that the shirt meets its brand’s high standard of quality.

What Fabrics Are Best For Men’s Polo Shirts?

Cotton is a classic and popular fabric for polo shirts, known for its softness and breathability. Cotton piqué is a specific type of cotton fabric often used for its sporty look and texture. Additionally, blended fabrics that mix cotton with synthetics like polyester or elastane can offer performance features, such as moisture-wicking and stretch. Some polos also come with built-in UPF sun protection as an added bonus.

What Should I Wear A Polo Shirt With?

One of the benefits of a men’s polo shirt is that it can go with a lot of different style items. “The value proposition of a polo is that it’s incredibly versatile,” says Albrecht. One option is to “pair your polo with a chino pant and a fashion sneaker,” he says. Or, for something more dressy, “wear a polo with a casual, unlined and unstructured blazer.” For spring and summer, Albrecht advises pairing a polo with a chino short and a pair of loafers. In general, avoid pairing a polo with a pant that feels too dressy, like suit pants. “For instance, a pique polo is a more casual style—if you pair it with a formal slack, it will feel disconnected.”


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