Polo shirts are one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, worn for business casual settings, weekend outings, or even light athletic activities. But not all polo shirts are created equal—different types serve different purposes. So, how do you make the right choice?
In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of polo shirts and show you how to choose the best one based on your needs, style, and comfort preferences.
How do I choose a good polo shirt?
Choosing a good polo shirt depends on the intended use and your personal style. Consider these key factors:
- Fabric: Look for breathable materials like Piqué cotton for structured and polished looks or Jersey cotton for softness and everyday comfort.
- Fit: Slim fits offer a modern silhouette, while classic fits provide more room and versatility.
- Collar: A well-constructed collar maintains its shape and ensures a neat appearance, especially for business casual environments.
- Durability: Quality stitching and reinforced seams are signs of a durable polo shirt.
Why It’s Great: Understanding these elements helps you choose a polo shirt that not only looks good but also feels comfortable and lasts longer.
What are the different types of polo shirts?
There are several types of polo shirts, each with distinct features. Here are the most common ones:
Piqué Polo Shirt
Made from a textured knit fabric with a honeycomb pattern, Piqué polos offer excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
Why It’s Great: Ideal for professional and business casual settings, as the fabric holds its shape well and provides a crisp, structured look.
Jersey Polo Shirt
Crafted from soft, smooth jersey knit fabric, these polos feel similar to a t-shirt but with a collar and button placket.
Why It’s Great: Perfect for casual wear and daily comfort. However, it might appear too relaxed for formal occasions.
Performance Polo Shirt
Engineered from technical fabrics like polyester or spandex blends, performance polos offer moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and stretch features.
Why It’s Great: The go-to choice for active lifestyles, golf, or hot climates. These shirts keep you cool and dry throughout the day.
Long Sleeve Polo Shirt
A versatile option for cooler weather or more sophisticated looks, long sleeve polos retain the classic polo style while adding warmth.
Why It’s Great: Suitable for smart casual settings and transitional seasons.
Fashion Polo Shirt
These polos often feature modern cuts, bold colors, patterns, or luxury materials like silk blends.
Why It’s Great: Ideal for making a fashion statement or elevating your casual outfits.
Knitted Polo Shirt
Knitted polos offer a more refined, textured appearance with a soft hand feel, often used in high-end menswear.
Why It’s Great: Great for evening events or sophisticated casual looks.
What makes a good quality polo shirt?
A good quality polo shirt is defined by several factors:
- Fabric Quality: Premium cotton (like Pima or Egyptian), Piqué cotton, or technical fabrics for performance polos.
- Stitching: Reinforced seams and even stitching ensure durability and longevity.
- Collar Structure: A collar that maintains its shape even after multiple washes.
- Buttons: High-quality buttons made from mother-of-pearl or durable plastic add to the overall polish of the shirt.
- Fit and Comfort: The shirt should fit well across the shoulders, chest, and waist, offering both style and ease of movement.
Why It’s Great: A quality polo shirt provides lasting comfort, superior style, and versatility across different occasions.
Who makes the best quality polo shirt?
Several brands are known for producing high-quality polo shirts, each offering unique strengths:
Lacoste
Known as the original creator of the modern polo shirt, Lacoste polos feature premium Piqué fabric, classic style, and exceptional craftsmanship.
Ralph Lauren
Polo Ralph Lauren offers a wide range of polo shirts, from classic Piqué to fashion-forward styles, all with iconic branding and high-quality fabrics.
Sunspel
A British brand that excels in producing refined, luxurious polo shirts crafted from soft, breathable fabrics.
Uniqlo
A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality, Uniqlo offers both classic and performance polos with modern fits.
Nike & Adidas
For performance polos, these athletic brands lead the market, offering technologically advanced fabrics that wick moisture and enhance comfort during sports.
Why It’s Great: Whether you prioritize heritage, luxury, affordability, or performance, these brands offer excellent polo shirt options to suit your needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right polo shirt depends on your lifestyle, wardrobe needs, and personal style. Piqué polos are perfect for professional looks, Jersey polos offer unbeatable comfort for casual wear, and performance polos shine in active settings. Investing in quality fabrics and thoughtful construction ensures your polo shirts will serve you well for seasons to come.
Build a collection that includes at least one of each key type, and you’ll be ready for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weekend brunch or a business casual meeting.
