You've no doubt outfitted your wardrobe with classic polos aplenty over the years, but it's time to rethink standard versions of the sporty shirt. Usually made from materials like cotton pique or even moisture-wicking fabrics, the polo now gets an added dash of cool via the best knit polos for men. What's a knit polo? It's a polo on the surface, but woven from fabric like cotton and viscose blends, or even merino wool – it's a sweater and a polo at once.
The knit polo finds its roots in retro style (just look at Don Draper in Mad Men), and it's all the rage right now. It's a style that shouldn't be intimidating, though. The best knit polos can be worn precisely like your favorite standard polo, whether with chino shorts and loafers or linen trousers. Our favorite brand, like Todd Snyder are delivering savvy, stylish versions. These are the best brands for knit polos on the market.
Here are the brands men's knit polos:
The best overall: Abercrombie & Fitch
Once known more for cargo shorts and large logo-adorned polos, Abercrombie & Fitch has gone back to its roots with a series of classically cool, affordable designs. Its knit polos are part button-up cardigan or zip sweater, part polo, and seriously cool.
When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
-
Made for days on and off the linksIf your knit polo looks like it walked out of an old photo taken at a country club, that’s a great thing. -
Part cardigan, part polo, all styleButton this knit polo up or wear it unbuttoned in easygoing fashion atop a crisp tee.
-
For a zipped-up, sporty lookChange up from a three-button polo with a preppy zip-front design and zig-zag weave.
-
Staff Pick
Best for elegant rooftop happy hoursPlenty of texture and a flattering V-neck collar give this handsome shirt an effortless cool.
The best affordable: The Tie Bar
If you thought The Tie Bar only made, well, ties and tie bars, think again. The fairly priced menswear powerhouse now rounds out your wardrobe with handsome sweaters, crisp trousers, blazers and yes, laidback-but-polished knit polos for men.
-
Cool and crisp in cottonAn intricate textured knit and an ivory color gives this polo some subtle flash and style.
-
Staff Pick
A time-tested designKnit polos with a ribbed pattern and classic accents on the collar and sleeves.
-
Long sleeves for breezy layering this seasonNot every knit polo needs to follow a short-sleeve design — this one resembles an old-school cardigan.
-
A flattering fit from collar to hemFrom the pleasing Johnny collar to the textured birdseye design, there’s plenty to love here.
The best preppy: Bonobos
What pairs well with stylish Bonobos chinos? A knit polo shirt, and to be more precise, one from the very same brand. Knit polos from Bonobos come in a vast array of colors and styles, much like its fashionable lineup of blazers, stretch chinos, shirting, and more.
-
A fun and fresh pattern for warm weatherDon’t be afraid to have some preppy fun with your sweater polo, as with this option from Bonobos.
-
Not your average preppy poloEmbrace the vibrant nature of the season with a breezy blue knit polo.
-
The best for a truly breezy finishKeep things casual and cool with an open-weave polo, which moves from the runway to your wardrobe easily.
-
Texture that makes you take a second lookThe light blue of this polo calls to mind the preppy classics you wore years ago, only better.
The best designer: Todd Snyder
Across the past decade-plus, Todd Snyder has changed the game (again) in the American menswear world. First, the man-made J. Crew instantly cool again, and now, he offers his own spin on the classics, including a lineup of knit polos with a throwback look and feel.
-
A stylish splurge that’ll pay off in spadesOpt for super-breathable, eye-catching Italian cotton and linen with a flattering open collar.
-
Made to be styled however you pleaseThe best knit polos are incredibly easy to wear, like this one with a button-front design.
-
Effortlessly elegant and elevatedThere’s nothing quite like a blend of silk and cotton, as this tasteful polo proves.
-
Sale
Made for coastal vacations aplentyLook closely at this polo, which uses a handsome and stylish jacquard weave for a refined look.
The best long sleeve: Ben Sherman
For six decades, Ben Sherman has defined classically preppy, crisp British style. There's a sense of easygoing, sporting elegance throughout its lineup, from knit polos to tailored trousers and blazers. Each is worthy of consideration in your next ensemble, starting with the right polo.
-
Sale
Merino wool makes the differenceTipped striping blends a retro look with long sleeves fit for layering.
-
Sale
Best knit polo to wear with tailored trousersA color-blocked design gives this polo an air of sporty style that’s easy to dress up.
-
Sale
A mod classic made for today’s looksMod style is defined by an edgy take on prep classics, and this knit polo fits the bill nicely.
-
Sale
Classically cool and color-blockedOpt for a rich, dark color palette in a flattering trio of colors, then pair it up with other earthy tones.
You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.
Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected].
