A properly fitted polo shirt will skim rather than hug the body. This will help it stay in place without riding up and getting caught on brambles.
Pique-knit polos are a more formal option compared to jersey alternatives. They usually come with a classic ribbed collar that flips up and stays up well. They also offer the benefit of wicking sweat from the neck and chest.
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Comfort
A quality polo shirt should feel soft on your skin and be comfortable to wear. It should not be too tight or small and should fit easily over your body, avoiding any pinching or binding. It should also be made with longer-staple cotton to avoid pilling or fading in color over time. Click here for more information
The cotton pique fabric used in this Ralph Lauren polo shirt is both breathable and comfortable. This textured knit fabric feels smooth against the skin and has a slight stretch, making it more comfortable than cotton jersey or interlock.
Other polo shirts are made from blended fabrics that combine cotton with polyester and other synthetics. These are good options if you want to keep the cost down, but they tend to be less comfortable than a pique cotton polo shirt. They may also cling to your body, which can be unpleasant if you prefer to tuck in your shirt. They are suitable for work and other casual occasions, but they don’t look as polished under a jacket or tailored suit as a 100% cotton polos.
Fabric
When it comes to the fabric used in a polo shirt, there are a few options. The most common is a blended synthetic that offers stain resistance and durability at a lower price point. However, these can often be a little less comfortable than all cotton fabrics.
The other option is the use of garment-dyed organic pima cotton. This creates a soft and luxurious feel against the skin but is still durable enough to last for years.
A good tip is to wash your polo shirts in cold water rather than hot to prevent shrinkage and keep the shape of the collar intact.
If you’re looking for a more sporty polo, the UA Tech Polo from Nike is a great choice. It’s made from a stretchy material that moves with you while you play golf or tennis and wicks sweat to keep you cool and dry. It also has a classic silhouette that looks great with trousers or shorts.
Fit
A polo that fits well is essential. A modern slim fit is best, but there are some options that offer a more relaxed look. These are ideal for resort wear and casual looks.
A shirt made from 100% cotton is always better than a blend. Blended fabrics typically incorporate polyester and synthetic materials to increase durability and stain resistance, but this often reduces comfort, especially for warmer climates.
The polo shirts by Orlebar Brown (PS140) are a great option for resort wear. Their pique is woven by Hong Kong tailors Ascot Chang, and they come in sixteen beach-ready colours. The collar is a wide spread, which will look good with a tailored jacket, and it’s reinforced with a light interlining to keep its shape.
Avoid polos with contrasting collars, plackets or cuffs, which will date quickly and detract from the overall appearance of the shirt. Likewise, avoid polos that feature large, oversized logos.
Stitching
The best polo shirts have fine stitching that enhances the shirt’s look and feel. You want a fine stitch that is tight enough to create an appealing outline and to hold the fabric together without creating holes or other flaws in the surface.
A taped shoulder seam is another sign of a high quality Tampere paita, as it helps the shirt maintain its shape after repeated wear and washes. Other hallmarks include a finished back hem that won’t crumple or show when you wear it untucked and a collar that isn’t floppy.
If you’re an active dude, consider a polo made from a performance fabric that wicks sweat. Nike’s Dri-Fit, for instance, comes in several neutral shades and sizes up to 4XL to accommodate a larger frame.