best travel polo shirts

12 Best Travel Shirts for Men & Women

These 12 travel shirts aren’t going to stink up or wear down on you. They’ll last you through a hot day of taco hunting in Mexico City or a wet day trekking in the mountains of Nepal.

Shirts. Just how do you wade into the tsunami of options to pick out the absolute best travel shirts on the market?

Do you look for brand popularity? Couldn’t hurt. What about quality materials? Most definitely. How about intended uses? Certainly.

In fact, you should look at all these points and more. But don’t worry, I’ve done the nitty-gritty research for you. And I’ve emerged with the best travel shirts for both men and women.

All you have to do is sit back and absorb everything you need to know before purchasing travel clothes for your next adventure.

The backbone of any travel clothing ensemble is undoubtedly the T-shirt.

Low-key, low-maintenance and low-profile, the T-shirt is perfect for transiting busy airports, stepping out of the hotel to poke around a new city or just squeezing in a workout. The trick, however, is finding a T-shirt that can accomplish all of this, and not stink or look like a cow’s been chewing on it.

I’ve, therefore, picked out several of the best t-shirts for travel to cover everything from comfort to near indestructibility.

• Best Travel T-Shirt Overall: Ably's Bradley and Daffodil
• Most Versatile Travel Shirt: Bluffworks Threshold
• Best Merino Travel T-Shirt: Ibex Merino Tencel Short Sleeve Tee
• Best Travel T-Shirt for Hiking: Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt
• Best Travel T-Shirt for Women: Eddie Bauer Favorite V-Neck
• Best Long Sleeve Travel Shirt: Unbound Merino Wool Long Sleeve Crew Neck
• Best Long-Sleeved Travel Shirt for Women: Icebreaker Zone Base Layer
• Best Travel Button Down Shirt: Bluffworks Meridian 2.0
• Best Travel Henley: Olivers Convoy Henley
• Best Travel Polo Shirt: Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve Polo Shirt
• Best Travel Hoodie: Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie
• Best Travel Tank Top: Icebreaker Merino 125 Cool-Lite Speed Tank Top

Best Travel T-Shirt Overall

Ably's bradley and daffodil.

• Filium coating
• Cotton, but liquid-repellent
• Odor-resistant
• Quick-dry T-shirt

Most Versatile Travel Shirt

Bluffworks threshold.

• UPF 50 protection
• Wrinkle-resistant
• Gold and silver nanoparticle embedded material for odor-resistance
• Machine-washable
• Moisture-wicking

Best Merino Travel T-Shirt

Ibex merino tencel short sleeve tee.

• Very durable merino blend with nylon
• Temperature-regulating
• Anti-microbial

Best Travel T-Shirt for Hiking

Patagonia capilene cool trail shirt.

• Made completely from recycled materials
• Lots of odor control
• More affordable than most
• Great for everything from hiking to city travel

Best Travel T-Shirt for Women

Eddie bauer favorite v-neck.

• Budget-friendly T-shirt
• Minimal piling

Best Long Sleeve Travel Shirt

Unbound merino wool long sleeve crew neck.

• Wrinkle-free
• Odor resistant
• Merino wool material
• Moisture wicking

Best Long-Sleeved Travel Shirt for Women

Icebreaker zone base layer.

• Thumbholes for added comfort
• Very durable

Best Travel Button Down Shirt

Bluffworks meridian 2.0.

• Classic or slim fit options
• Machine washable

Best Travel Henley

Olivers convoy henley.

• Water-resistant

Best Travel Polo Shirt

Icebreaker merino tech lite ii short sleeve polo shirt.

Best Travel Hoodie

Unbound merino compact travel hoodie.

Best Travel Tank Top

Icebreaker merino 125 cool-lite speed tank top.

• Merino-Tencel blend for excellent durability

Ably's Bradley and Daffodil : Best Travel T-Shirt Overall

The Filium shirt treatment employed by Ably easily makes their product earn the title of one of the best travel shirts on the market. Liquid-repellent and quick-drying, these cotton shirts are absolutely perfect for wearing on back-to-back-to-back days and still looking fresh.

And, as an added bonus: Ably produces this almost odor-free T-shirt in both men’s ( the Bradley ) and women’s ( the Daffodil ). Just be aware that this T-shirt for travel comes at a price. And it’s also susceptible to shrinkage (remember it’s still a cotton shirt!).

• Pros & Cons
• Technical Specs
• Odor-resistant, so you can wear for long periods of time
• Quick-drying
• Susceptible to shrinkage if dried too long
• Moderately expensive

Bluffworks Threshold : Most Versatile Travel Shirt

Instead of relying on a material’s natural anti-microbial properties, such as merino, or secondary treatments for odor control, Bluffworks adopts the unique approach of embedded gold and silver nanoparticles. Recall that Bluffworks is always pushing for the very best in durability and style, and that’s exactly what they deliver here.

These gold and silver particles keep bacteria and odors at bay with ease. And they keep the Bluffworks Threshold smelling great after traveling, sleeping and also even exercising. Add UPF 50 protection and wrinkle-resistance, and you have what can definitely be one of the best travel T-shirts for both men and women . It’s certainly one to add to your packing list.

Remember, however, that these features come with a price tag, making this shirt fairly expensive, compared to an ordinary T-shirt.

• UPF 50+ sun protection
• Expensive compared to a regular cotton tee

Ibex Merino Tencel Short Sleeve Tee : Best Merino Travel T-Shirt

If sweaters, hoodies and long sleeves can all benefit from merino, then why can’t T-shirts? At least that’s what Ibex thought when they produced the Merino Tencel Short Sleeve Tee . This company has stylish longevity at the forefront of their line as they continuously produce high-quality men’s travel shirts and apparel to last for the long run.

The ultra-fine combo of merino wool and nylon accomplishes this goal by creating excellent temperature regulation and anti-microbial properties with extreme durability. So this produces a luxuriously soft T-shirt that will smell great and also hold up in the face of every travel escapade ever. The greatest drawback for me, however, is justifying paying $85+ on a T-shirt. But for this powerhouse combination, it may well be worth it for you. There’s a women’s version as well.

• Very expensive compared to other shirts on this list

Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt : Best Travel T-Shirt for Hiking

The best travel shirt in tee form doesn’t need to break the bank—and the Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt (also available for women ) is a perfect example of a functional yet affordable shirt. It’s made of a quick-to-wick 100% recycled polyester spun jersey blend that will keep you comfortable hiking a trail or around a new city.

It’s durable enough to be your sidekick for any and all of your travels, and it holds up to multiple washing cycles very well.

Fortunately, you won’t even need to wash it too often, as this shirt also has lots of odor control. You’ll have a solid unisex T-shirt for all your adventures—and since it’s made from recycled materials, you’ll be doing your part to help the environment!

• Less expensive than others on this list
• Comes in a wide array of colors
• Made from 100% recycled polyester
• The sizes seem to run smaller than normal—if you're a size small, you should probably get a medium

Eddie Bauer Favorite V-Neck : Best Travel T-Shirt for Women

For an inexpensive travel V-neck , Eddie Bauer puts forth their “favorite” T-shirt. Eddie Bauer has been equipping mountaineers and explorers for many years, and they bring that experience to all their clothes. Think: excellent quality along with a policy of standing behind everything they produce.

The cotton-polyester blend here follows this trend and makes for a comfortably soft fit, while the polishing helps prevent any annoying piling. This material, however, lacks any temperature regulation or anti-bacterial properties. So be prepared to wash it while traveling.

All this comes in at a very reasonable price that makes it an ideal addition to any informal travel wardrobe.

• Minimal pilling
• Not odor-resistant
• No temperature regulation

Unbound Merino Wool Long Sleeve Crew Neck : Best Long Sleeve Travel Shirt

Every traveler worth their salt needs a reliable and stylish long-sleeve shirt. This should be your go-to option for a day in the city or for an evening out. It can also act as a layer when the temperatures begin to drop.

Unbound is one of the best travel clothing brands and they put their proven quality and merino prowess to work to provide that exact go-to shirt in their long sleeve merino crew . I rank it among the best men’s wrinkle-free travel shirts – an important feature when you’re living out of a backpack.

This shirt embodies each and every one of the benefits of coveted merino wool—cool and moisture-wicking in warm weather, and temperature-insulating on cooler days. The wool is, furthermore, naturally anti-bacterial. Therefore it’s anti-odor, so you can wear it time and time again without washing.

But the time for washing will eventually come and, when it does, you may find merino wool to be a little more particular than your average T-shirt. While it can be machine washed, line drying is highly recommended to prevent shrinkage and premature wear. Unbound provides several very handy, but potentially headache-inducing, guidelines to keep this wool shirt in peak health.

While all the benefits of Merino make this shirt functionally perfect for nearly every traveling situation, the uncomplicated but stylish design by Unbound is the icing on the cake. Available in solid navy blue or black, this shirt will look perfectly comfortable as a layer on a skiing trip or as a standalone in a cafe or restaurant.

I, therefore, wholeheartedly recommend the merino crew from Unbound as one of the best travel shirts for men. Certainly the finest option with long sleeves. Stay warm when needed, cool when needed and classy always.

• Extra maintenance required
• Only two colors

Icebreaker Zone Base Layer : Best Long-Sleeved Travel Shirt for Women

Finding a reliable long-sleeve that can function as a layer, a standalone top for around town and an exercise shirt is no small task. Especially when you need to find the perfect travel shirt to last for as long as possible.

The Icebreaker Zone Base Layer , however, perfectly fills this niche. And it can easily become your favorite traveling top for any situation.

This incredibly comfortable merino top will keep smelling great through every aspect of your trip, while the nylon blend seriously increases the durability for absolute longevity. And the added thumbholes and inherent temperature regulation further add to the comfort.

Plus, the straight-black coloring and sleek design offer near-limitless versatility. Wear it for a run, a day out, during airplane travel or as a warm base, and look good in every situation.

Recall, however, that merino abhors dryers, and so line drying is the way to go. Furthermore, several users report that the shirt may feel itchy upon purchase. But a single wash usually clears this up without any further issues.

Icebreaker has been cranking out high-quality merino products for several years now. And this long-sleeve top for women certainly lives up to their reputation. All the benefits of merino, the durability of nylon, a sleek design and, of course, thumbholes all come together to make this long-sleeve the best travel shirt for women travelers.

• Extra merino care
• Can be itchy upon purchase

Bluffworks Meridian 2.0 : Best Travel Button Down Shirt

Looking to make an impression while on the road? Perhaps you’re headed to a high-stakes business meeting. Or maybe it’s a romantic evening out in a new city. It certainly pays to look your best while traveling. And the Meridian Dress Shirt 2.0 easily accomplishes this goal to the point that others will be thinking: “I wonder if his tailor travels with him.”

Bluffworks has invested an enormous amount of time and energy into developing a unique clothing line that lasts. And also a line that looks great. This shirt promises just that, making it the best travel dress shirt on the market.

The Meridian Dress Shirt 2.0 is entirely wrinkle-free. For example, pull it from your suitcase after a flight, and you’ll be good to go.

Plus, there’s no sense in smelling like a rumpled and rugged traveler. The Meridian, again, hurdles this obstacle with an anti-microbial treatment that keeps you smelling fresh for days. And the polyester material is perfect for keeping you cool in all conditions. But remember that it doesn’t offer much insulation.

That all said, when it’s time for a wash, the Meridian is also refreshingly straightforward. This shirt is 100 percent machine washable, and you can simply tumble dry it or throw it up on a line.

However, for all its benefits, I’ve found that the Meridian does have one chink in its armor. The button spacing seems to be ever-so-slightly large. Meaning that, when sitting down, the gaps between the buttons can open up to reveal your undershirt (or lack thereof).

• Wide button spacing

Olivers Convoy Henley : Best Travel Henley

The Henley adds a few degrees of style to the standard long-sleeve shirt with the addition of a three-button collarless placket. But now consider the travel Henley, Oliver’s 100 percent merino wool variant that is anti-odor, water-repellent, lightweight and always ready for the road.

Olivers provides a refreshingly large color selection, so you can pick what matches your vibe. And the straightforward solid color also creates a subtly pleasing style that is just as versatile as your travels. Airports, dinners, beach trips, workouts and everything in between—your Convoy Henley won’t even break a sweat, literally.

The 100 percent merino wool construction will remain cool in warm conditions, and while wicking moisture away from your body. But, when the thermometer takes a dive, the wool will also provide excellent insulation. Add its natural odor protection and Olivers’ added water-resistance, and you have a shirt that will keep up on all of your travel escapades.

The fit, however, can be a bit of an acquired taste. Olivers has opted for a very athletic fit. Meaning you casual wearers out there can expect a much tighter fit and significantly narrower sleeves. So, if this worries you, be sure to pick one size larger than usual.

What merino gives us travelers in temperature and odor protection, however, it takes back in maintenance. Be sure to read up on how to best protect your wool shirt, and do your best to make it last. Additionally, this shirt must always dry on the line or lying flat, which can be a bit of a drag to you quick-moving travelers.

Nevertheless, the mountain of benefits of merino wool far outweighs the additional maintenance. It’s, therefore, easily the best travel shirt for Henley lovers to add to their packing list.

• Athletic cut, especially in narrow sleeves

Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve Polo Shirt : Best Travel Polo Shirt

Whether it’s salsa night in your new city or you’re simply a polo aficionado, the Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve Polo Shirt is the best travel shirt for those looking for a classy collar. Combining all the benefits of merino wool with a stretchy nylon results in a stylish platform that hides a plethora of travel-friendly perks.

So let’s start with the style. First, Icebreaker presents a simple solid color pattern in two darker colors that look good in almost every circumstance. So from your travel day at the airport to an evening out with new friends, this polo shirt easily projects tastefulness without straying into the realm of preppy.

But, also, within this fashionable men’s shirt hides merino wool superpowers. So enjoy the benefits of your shirt being naturally odor-resistant, temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking, all of which are pivotal for the best travel shirt. Remember, however, that merino requires extra Tender Loving Care (TLC), and it cannot be tossed in a dryer.

In fact, while we’re discussing the downsides, beware that many consumers have reported that the chest region of this polo often fits snugly, bordering on tight. Apart from the tight feeling, this also leads to a lot of chest for all to see if you leave it unbuttoned. Consider sizing up if you prefer a more casual fit.

For combining fancy and function, gentlemen, you can’t go wrong with this polo from Icebreaker. The design and style will keep you looking good for every aspect of your trip. And the merino material will constantly fend off smells and uncomfortable temperatures. So that’s definitely a win-win that makes this the best travel shirt for men who love a good polo.

• Tight fit in chest and arms
• Merino requires extra maintenance

Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie : Best Travel Hoodie

Enter: all the benefits of merino, with tons of extra perks (like being wrinkle-resistant), spun into an incredibly soft and compact hoodie that will keep you comfortable wherever your travels take you. I believe Unbound Merino has definitely hit a bullseye with this product. And it easily earns the title of one of the best traveling shirts.

Unbound Merino has targeted extreme adventurers for years with their line of comfortable yet durable merino wool products. And this particular hoodie embodies everything I love about their line.

The 97 percent merino wool will keep nasty odors at bay, even after days and days of wear. And, meanwhile, it will regulate your temperature in both warm and cool situations. Unbound Merino threw in 3% elastane, which seriously ups the durability of this garment, and it makes it ready to tackle everything from the trails to the trams.

Plus, this shirt is light and breathable, and fast-drying to boot—it’s absolutely perfect for backpack-toting travelers who may need to wash their clothes by hand. As always, keep in mind that merino needs a little extra love where maintenance is concerned. This is, furthermore, a very thin and lightweight travel shirt that, while perfect for traveling, may be prone to snags or tears.

Travelers looking for the perfect blend of comfort and durability, therefore, can’t go wrong with the Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie .

• Light and breathable, and quick-drying
• Very thin material, may be prone to snags

Icebreaker Merino 125 Cool-Lite Speed Tank Top : Best Travel Tank Top

I spent a great deal of time searching around for the very best shirts for travel in each category, and Icebreaker simply kept appearing. They once again make my list, therefore, with their Icebreaker Merino 125 Cool-Lite Speed Tank Top that, again, ushers in an unbeatable merino-Tencel blend.

The merino easily handles the odor and comfort aspect to this travel tank, while the Tencel, in turn, shores up the durability and moisture-wicking/quick-drying aspects. Together, they make this stylish tank top ready to take on the world, from exploring an outdoor market to enjoying a nice meal to completing the best hike of your life.

The relaxed draping fit will also be comfortable for any and all parts of your adventure. Wear this under a blazer or cardigan, and you’ve got something slightly more formal. But take note here that the draping fit may not be for everyone. Those of you who prefer a more sporty athletic fit may want to consider moving one size lower. But this is seriously small potatoes for such an awesome shirt.

For serious traveling in hot climates, this tank is certainly one of the best travel shirts you can invest in. Smell fresh wear after wear, look great wherever you go, enjoy merino’s endless comfort and get a traveling tank that will last your entire trip. In short, you can’t get any better than that.

• Cannot tumble dry
• Drapes for a loose and relaxed fit. Drop down a size for tight athletic fit.

What Makes the Best Travel Shirt?

You may look at your closet and see plenty of shirts that you could pack, but would they really stand up to the rigors of travel and earn the title of travel shirt? Probably not. Travel shirts are a special breed that are specifically designed for all the hardship, odors and harsh weather conditions on your radar.

These special design points generally focus on materials, additional treatments and simply high-quality craftsmanship that all work together to make the best travel shirt last as long as your travels do. And always look good while doing it.

So, now that you know exactly what to look for in this essential piece of travel gear, these three points are key.

Tough Threads

Arguably the most important aspect of the best travel shirts is its material. Cheap or weak material is much more likely to prematurely fray and fail mid-trip. So this leads to an unscheduled and unanticipated shopping stop to replenish your travel wardrobe.

I, therefore, cannot overstate the importance of finding travel clothes that will complement, and not hinder, your travels. My best advice is to look for merino wool or an alternative.

• Merino: Merino wool is incredibly soft and feels great. And, more practically, it’s naturally anti-bacterial, which means that it’s anti-odor. It’s also temperature regulating. That said, it does need some more care, as it cannot be tossed in the dryer. And there are also certain chemical deodorants that some manufacturers say to steer clear of.
• Synthetic Alternatives:  Polyester, a manufactured synthetic material, is breathable and moisture wicking, but lacks insulation. Tencel is also employed as a more durable and quick-drying option to merino wool, and is often blended with wool to get the best of both worlds. Lastly, lyocell is a natural man-made fiber that is often deployed for its excellent moisture management and anti-microbial properties.

As an extra layer of awesomeness, you will often see many manufacturers adding their own material treatments to further bolster a travel shirt’s robustness.

Treatment for Travel

The raw materials that make up the best travel shirts typically benefit from an additional chemical treatment in the form of water-repellency, anti-microbial shields or UPF protection . For most travelers, these can be absolute gold.

Fend off the rain or drink spill, both of which are unfortunate inevitabilities. Or keep those smelly bacteria at bay for more uses between washes. Some of the best outdoor clothing brands even have their own special formulations to boost their shirts to the heavyweight level, as Ably’s Filium accomplishes.

Filium launches what would simply be an average cotton shirt to the traveling level with a three-part combination knockout. It’s stain-resistant thanks to liquid repellency, odor-resistant thanks to anti-microbial properties, and quick drying. These three items are just what I love in a good travel shirt, and that’s why you’ll see Ably amongst my top T-shirt picks.

Therefore, run an eye over a potential shirt’s specifications, and pay special attention to any treatments that may be the thin line between a throwaway gym rag and the best shirt of your life.

Excellence for Every Escapade

The last item to consider when purchasing the best travel shirts, as with all travel gear, is quality. Poorly constructed shirts will simply not hold up to the rigors of travel.

Look for products from established and reputable manufacturers. Preferably those in the outdoor adventure or sport fields. They will know how to make shirts that last. This quality will, unfortunately, come with a price tag. But investing in a shirt that will last, look good for most occasions and resist stains and odors is well worth spending a little extra on in my opinion.

Off to trek the Salkantay trail or headed to the cold Bolivian salt flats? Whatever the case, these travel shirts will make sure of no wardrobe malfunctions. From long to short, hooded to collared, buttoned to casual, this list has you covered.

You have everything you need to know about purchasing your best shirt for travel ever at your fingertips. So go forth, get your shirt, and keep on exploring the world.

• The Best Gifts For Travelers
• What to Wear Hiking

Travel Shirts FAQs

What is the best shirt to wear when traveling.

The best shirt for traveling is one that is lightweight, breathable, and antimicrobial.

What clothes are good for traveling?

The best travel clothes are ones that work in a variety of situations, are lightweight, and are comfortable.

What is the best antimicrobial travel clothing?

Merino wool is the best antimicrobial material for travel clothing.

What is the best travel clothing brand?

Unbound Merino makes some of the best travel clothing on the planet.

What is travel t-shirt?

A travel t-shirt is one that is very lightweight and packable.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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The 13 Best Travel Shirts for 2021

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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The best travel shirts all share qualities that make them ideal for travel. They must wick away sweat, fight odors, resist wrinkles, and of course—look stylish. Here are our top picks for the best travel shirts for men and women.

UNTUCKit Flannel Sherwood Shirt

It can be tough to find casual men’s shirts that don’t look sloppy, but UNTUCKit nails it with their Sherwood flannel . Like all UNTUCKit shirts, the shirt is designed to be the perfect length when worn untucked. The soft brushed cotton fabric is ultra-cozy, making it comfortable on even the coldest days. Choose from a regular, slim, relaxed, or tall fit to get the perfect cut for your body type.

Ibex Journey Long Sleeve Crew

Available in a men’s and women’s version, the Ibex Journey Long Sleeve Crew will be the most versatile shirt in your travel wardrobe. Made from merino wool and nylon fabric blend, this shirt is warm but never itchy. The merino wool makes the shirt odor-resistant, thermoregulating, and breathable.

Nathan Tempo Quarter Zip Long Sleeve Shirt

The Nathan Tempo Quarter Zip is the perfect layer for active trips. Made from a soft knit fabric, the shirt is slim enough to layer under a jacket or sweatshirt, but still extremely warm. Thumb holes, reflective details, and flat lock seams make this quarter zip the shirt you’ll reach for every time for cold weather workouts.

Public Rec Go-To Polo

Public Rec’s Go-To Polo is as comfortable as a T-shirt but looks classier—so you can wear this from a meeting to drinks afterwards. Made from a blend of pima cotton, TENCEL, and spandex, this ultra-soft shirt packs easily, feels great, looks awesome, and stands out as one of the best travel shirts.

Bluffworks Azores Blouse

A women’s button-down that doesn’t gape at the buttons can be hard to find, let alone one that doesn’t wrinkle and is actually comfortable. Bluffworks’ Azores Blouse magically meets all those requirements, with plenty of pockets thrown in as an added bonus.

Tasc Carrollton Long Sleeve

Made from a bamboo/cotton/spandex blend, Tasc’s Carrollton Long Sleeve shirt wicks away moisture, prevents odors, protects you from the sun, and is ultra-breathable—plus, it’s unbelievably soft. With a clean crewneck design, this shirt can be worn for both workouts and sightseeing without looking out of place.

Title Nine Grace Long Sleeve Top

For an active trip, you’ll want to pack Title Nine’s Grace Long Sleeve Top . Made out of a trademarked Buttah LT fabric with StinkStopper treatment, the shirt feels smoother than butter and resists odors even if you subject it to multiple workouts without a wash. Details like a ruched back and space-dye design make this shirt wearable outside of the gym.

Unbound Merino Classic Button-Down

Unbound Merino’s Classic Button-Down beats a traditional button-down on several fronts: It’s short enough that it can be worn tucked or untucked without looking odd, it’s made from a merino wool/organic cotton blend that’s odor-resistant and breathable, and it’s fast-drying so you can wash it and re-wear it on a long trip.

Coolibar Hightide Swim Shirt

Protect yourself from the sun without overheating in long sleeves with Coolibar’s Hightide Swim Shirt . Made to be worn in the water, this shirt offers UPF 50+ protection, won’t float up while you swim, and won’t fade from chlorine or saltwater. This lightweight and silky-feeling shirt can be worn out of the water as well, when you need to save yourself from the sun on dry land.

Alternative Apparel Everyday V-Neck

Alternative Apparel’s Everyday V-Neck is not only soft, but it’s also eco-friendly. The trademarked Lenzing fabric used to make this travel shirt is a sustainable cellulose fiber that comes from beechwood pulp—resulting in a material that’s twice as soft as regular cotton.

PFG Zero Rules Long Sleeve Shirt

Ever wished you could wear your own personal air conditioner? Columbia’s PFG Zero Rules shirt comes close to achieving that dream. This long-sleeve travel shirt actually lowers your body temperature. The Omni-Wick technology wicks sweat and moisture away from your body and keeps you dry, while Omni-Shade blocks UV rays and heat.

Patagonia Short-Sleeved Capilene Cool Trail Shirt

Patagonia’s Short-Sleeved Capilene Cool Trail Shirt is a shirt that all other T-shirts should be modeled after: a lightweight, breathable fabric that’s moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and soft. Plus, it’s made with anti-odor technology to keep the stink away. The design offers just the right amount of fashion while still keeping it classic.

Stantt Performance Dress Shirt

Get the perfect fit (no tailor required) with Stantt’s Performance Dress Shirt . This innovative brand offers shirts in 99 different sizes. Simply take a 30-second quiz on Stantt’s website to find your ideal size. The Performance shirt is great for travel, as it’s wrinkle-resistant but still soft and stretchy, so you’ll look good and feel comfortable as you step off the plane.

More from SmarterTravel:

• The Best Plus-Size Travel Clothes to Flatter Any Body
• Ultra-Packable Travel Dresses for Summer
• Allbirds vs. Rothy’s: Which Comfortable Shoe Brand Is Right for You?

Caroline Teel continues her search for the best travel shirts. Follow her on Instagram @TravelwithCaroline to see her fashionable adventures around the world.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The Best Polo Shirts For Men, Based On Expert Advice And Our Review

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The best polo shirts for men are polished yet comfortable—a bit dressier than a t-shirt but less formal than a button-down. After ranking and reviewing many options, we selected Huckberry’s Proof 72-Hour Polo Shirt as the best men’s polo overall since it’s cut from soft merino that’s naturally odor resistant and breathable for all-day wear. It looks great with casual jeans or dressed up with work pants. We also found other top-notch polo shirts for different situations, whether you want one that’s affordable , sweat-wicking or ultra-lightweight .

The best polo shirts for men are sporty and polished enough to wear all day.

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, among other factors. Forbes Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar weighed in on the final picks, and she also offered expert shopping pointers as well as answers to commonly asked questions about the best polo shirts for men. We also had men’s fashion expert Kyle Albrecht, founder and lead stylist at Social Garb , evaluate each pick.

• Best Polo Shirt Overall: Huckberry Proof 72-Hour Polo Shirt
• Best Affordable Polo Shirt: Dickies Short Sleeve Polo Shirt
• Best Performance Polo Shirt: Lululemon Evolution Short-Sleeve Polo Shirt
• Best Polo Shirt For Work: Bonobos Stretch Pique Polo
• Best Stylish Polo Shirt: Todd Snyder Fine Pique Polo
• Best Quality Polo Shirt: Polo Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Polo Shirt
• Best Comfortable Polo Shirt: Vineyard Vines St. Jean Stripe Sankaty Polo
• Best Lightweight Polo Shirt: Vuori Strato Tech Polo
• Best Cotton Polo Shirt: Tommy Hilfiger Cotton Pique Polo Shirt
• Best Dress Polo Shirt: Banana Republic Luxury-Touch Polo

Best Polo Shirt For Men Overall

Odor-repelling, moisture-wicking and stylish, huckberry proof 72-hour merino polo shirt.

Sizes:  XS to 3XL |  Colors:  7 total |  Material:  87% micron merino wool, 13% nylon | Placket design: 3 buttons | Fit: Classic | Weight: Light

• What’s notable: The breathable merino fabric resists sweat and smells, it has comfortable snap buttons and it has 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. Their 72-Hour Merino Polo impressed us with its temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking merino fabric that’s soft to the touch, and also naturally resists odors. This polo comes in a range of stylish colors and sizes up to 3XL. The price is affordable compared to other more expensive polos on the market, making this an excellent choice overall. “This is a higher end fabrication, but it’s also easy to maintain,” says Albrecht. “It’s more fashionable than other options and also easy care.”

What our editor says: “Huckberry thoroughly tests their clothing in the field, which I appreciate. Their 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.”

The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.

Best Affordable Polo Shirt

Cost-friendly workwear, dickies short sleeve polo shirt.

Sizes: S to 4XL | Colors: 8 total | Material: 60% cotton, 40% polyester | Placket design: 3 buttons | Fit: Relaxed | Weight: Medium

• What’s notable: This shirt is made from quality cotton pique knit fabric at an affordable price. The design is also tagless and wrinkle-resistant.
• What could be better: The loose, relaxed fit is not ideal for more dressy situations.

Dickies’s polo is simple and straightforward, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need in a shirt, whether you’re wearing it outside for work or casual days with chinos. This pick has a tagless design, which is a thoughtful detail for those with sensitive skin. Also nice: The dyed buttons that match each color of the shirt. Keep in the mind the fit is slightly oversized. “This is a classic workwear brand—it’s good quality at an accessible price point,” says Albrecht. “This shirt is intentionally more boxy and oversized. It’s a good option if you don’t want to emphasize your midsection, but still want a nice, consistent silhouette.”  

What our editor says: “Dickie’s clothing holds up pretty well to wear and tear, thanks to the quality of the workmanship. At $18, you can’t go wrong with having a few of these polos in your wardrobe.”

Best Performance Polo Shirt

A polo that can handle workouts, lululemon evolution short-sleeve polo shirt.

Sizes:  XS to 5XL |  Colors:  10 total |  Material:  82% polyester, 10% lyocell, 5% lycra elastane | Placket design: 3 buttons | Fit: Slim | Weight: Medium

• 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 well-constructed, moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you dry and odor free, so you can be out in the sun or running around. The fit is slim, so it skims your body, for a clean look. “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 Polo Shirt For Work

A polo you can layer under a suit, bonobos stretch pique polo.

Sizes:  XS to 2XL |  Colors:  11 total |  Material:  98% pima cotton, 2% spandex | Placket design: 3 buttons | Fit: Standard, slim | Weight: Light

• 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 pique with good color options and at friendly price point, this is a great option,” says Albrecht. It has a slim fit that pairs well with slacks and can easily pull double duty on the golf course or a plane for travel days, thanks to the breathable, lightweight design.

What our editor says: “This is a smart polo that passed a lot of my tests for what a work should have, from the flat-knit rib trim to the fabric that repels odors, wrinkles and stains. Some reviewers say this shirt loses its shape in the wash, though, so I’d dry clean it or wash carefully and line dry it.”

Best Stylish Polo Shirt

Well-made pick that looks sharp.

Todd Snyder

Todd Snyder Fine Pique Polo

Sizes:  XS to 2XL |  Colors:  8 total |  Material:  51% cotton, 47% tencel, 2% lycra | Placket design: 3 buttons | Fit: Classic | Weight: Medium

• 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. “Their 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. “This polo is rich both visually and in terms of the feel. It’s a tencel blend, which makes it super soft, and it has a little bit of flow and effortlessness.”

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 men’s classic fit polo shirt.

Sizes:  XS to 2XL |  Colors:  16 total |  Material:  100% cotton | Placket design: 2 buttons | Fit: Classic | Weight: Medium

• 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.

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 pique 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

Vineyard Vines St. Jean Stripe Sankaty Polo

Sizes:  XS to 2XL |  Colors:  11 total |  Material:  92% polyester, 8% spandex | Placket design: 3 buttons | Fit: Relaxed | Weight: Light

• 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: The size range only goes up to 2XL.

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 or long hours outdoors 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 Dunmore 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 polo.

Sizes:  S to XXL |  Colors:  10 total |  Material:  96% polyester, 4% elastane | Placket design: 3 buttons | Fit: Classic | Weight: Light

• 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 pique.

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. Reviewers comment on how the fabric is ‘pajama soft’ and holds up well to a lot of wear and washings.”

Best Cotton Polo Shirt

Bestseller that's extremely comfortable.

Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger Short Sleeve Polo Shirt

Sizes:  XS to 4XL |  Colors:  33 total   |  Material:  100% cotton | Placket design : 2 buttons | Fit: Classic | Weight: Medium

• What’s notable: It’s affordable 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 the best fitting. The short sleeve shirt is cut from cotton piqué fabric that creates a breathable and relaxed design but 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 Dress Polo Shirt

A shirt that is soft and stylish.

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Luxury-Touch Polo

Sizes:  XS to 2XL |  Colors:  5 total |  Material:  100% cotton | Placket design: 2 buttons | Fit: Slim | Weight: Medium

• 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 that is treated 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.”

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At Forbes Vetted, our editors and contributors are experts in their field and we leverage that experience to bring our readers the best possible shopping recommendations. Our fashion coverage is headed up by a team of writers and editors, including our deputy editor, Kari Molvar , who is a veteran of lifestyle journalism, with years of firsthand testing and reviewing. Our aim is to bring a critical eye and informed opinion to shopping so you can make smart and knowledgeable choices. We carefully vet all of our selections and have personally tried on, worn, washed and styled an extensive array of clothing, accessories and footwear. Menswear is a particular focus for the Vetted team, and we’ve published numerous shopping guides on the topic, including those on the best suits , the best chinos and the most comfortable dress shoes for men .

How We Chose The Best Polos For Men

In 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, such as Todd Snyder and Banana Republic. We took detailed notes on their fit, fabric, comfort, style, design, versatility and performance details, scoring them on their ability to offer such benefits as 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 also read reviews from real users who have worn the polos, paying close attention to comments on the fit, whether the polos ran to true to size and how they retained their shape after washing. The polos with the highest scores then went through a final analysis to ensure they came in inclusive sizes to fit a diverse range of body types and provided excellent value at reasonable prices. Lastly, we prioritized styles that were classic but modern enough to be worn now and years from now. This article was last updated in April 2024.

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 best ones are versatile, comfortable and stylish. “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: Just because you can wear polos casually doesn’t mean the fit is not important. A well-fitted polo shirt strikes the balance between slim and relaxed; it should be tapered but not overly tight. You want it to move freely over the contours of your body, from the shoulders to the waist, without binding. Excessively loose fits can look a bit messy while overly tight designs can restrict your movement. 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.

Fabric And Materials: “Two of the most common fabric fabrications for polos are cotton pique 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.

While tech polos are functional, they can be too casual, Albrecht says, and guys who may be more interested in contemporary looks may look for different fabrics. Albrecht likes Suit Supply’s Buttonless Polo Shirt , which is a modern, well-fitting polo made out of California cotton and mulberry silk. “What’s nice about it is that you can size up if you’re feeling insecure about it being clingy,” he says.

Button Or No Button: Polo shirts are known for their distinctive buttons, which can range from two to three, or even be replaced by a buttonless collar or a zip. The number of buttons can influence the shirt's formality, 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.

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. The key is to strike a balance between timeless classics and stylish variations in your wardrobe.

Which Brands Make The Best Polo Shirts For Men?

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.

Should Men’s Polos Be Tucked In?

Both tucked and untucked are correct, says Albrecht. Whether or not to tuck in a polo shirt depends on the occasion and your personal style. In more formal settings or when dressing up, tucking in polo shirts creates a neater and polished appearance. “If you want your polo to look more tailored and elevated, tuck it in,” says Albrecht. However, for casual or relaxed occasions, leaving polo shirts untucked is both comfortable and stylish. “Your shirt should hit just below your belt line or at your upper fly when it’s untucked,” he says. “That’s how you can tell if it’s the right fit.” The bottom line: Read the room to get a sense of the dress code, the formality of the event and your comfort level.

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, “to elevate your look, 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.”

What Polo Shirts Are Best For Playing Golf?

A technical fabric that breathes and is sweat-wicking is key when playing golf, especially when temperatures climb. In our review of the best golf polo shirts , we chose Peter Millar Performance Jersey Polo as the top option overall. Other brands such as B.Draddy, G/Fore and Lululemon are popular choices at golf courses around the country.

What About Lacoste Polos?

French tennis player René Lacoste is credited with creating the polo in 1926, according to The Fashion Encyclopedia , a trusted reference guide to the fashion industry and its history. At the time, tennis players were required to wear long-sleeved, starched shirts. Lacoste found these shirts to be uncomfortable and restrictive, so he designed his own shirt with short sleeves, a collar with two buttons and a tail that could be tucked in or left out. He also added a crocodile logo—a reference to his on-court nickname, "The Crocodile." Lacoste’s shirt was soon adopted by polo players and other athletes for the same reasons it was a hit with tennis players—it was comfortable, breathable and stylish. If you’d like to add this classic to your collection, here’s our top Lacoste pick:

A Favorite Polo For Generations

Lacoste slim fit polo.

Modeled after Lacoste’s original 1926 polo, the brand’s slim fit polo is as stylish as ever. It’s available in more than 40 colors, and Lacoste works with some of the best cotton on the market, so this polo is breathable and made to last.  Note that if you like a roomier style, try the Classic Fit .

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The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Years ago, I never put much thought into the clothes I packed for a trip. I would follow the standard formula of different outfits, centered around a unique cotton t-shirt each day. I would bring nearly as many pants or shorts because I knew they couldn’t last more than a few wears. Part of that was my naiveness but it was also largely due to the state of the industry. Performance travel clothing, like travel shirts for instance, are a relatively recent phenomenon (say the last 2-3 years), but this progression has changed the landscape of travel, forever.

Purposefully designed and constructed travel clothes marry the technical advantages gleaned from sports and fitness to well designed clothes that work well in a variety of situations on your trip. Besides looking great, travel shirts are much more versatile than normal clothing. They are often constructed of merino wool or a combination of polyester, nylon, and spandex. They usually are antimicrobial (which means they don’t stink), quick drying (meaning you can wash them in the evening and they’ll be ready by breakfast), anti-wrinkle (so go ahead and fold it up in your carry-on), and they are constructed with stretch (so you can articulate all you want).

Together, this means you can pack less, without sacrificing anything. But every brand or piece in this space isn’t exceptional. So in this ‘Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets’ article, I’ll be showcasing the pieces I think are, and because of that, they’ve made it into my personal packing list.

A quick note: these are all men’s shirts and tops, that I tested. Often, these brands make the same or a similar version for women, so make sure you visit their websites for more details.

What is a Travel Shirt?

You can choose to bring any shirt or top on your trip, but a travel shirt is an article of clothing that is purpose built for the voyage. Instead of merely looking good, they are usually made of technical fabrics (either man-made or natural), and have some extra features built in.

What Makes A Good Travel Shirt?

Versatility.

I want to pack as few shirts as possible when I travel. That means I value shirts that look great in the city but also can pass at dinner or a meeting. I care about how I look and I want to be presentable and dress appropriately. For me, having a shirt that does not look out of place is very important. For t-shirts, I want simple designs, void of any major branding or logos or offensive imagery. For dress shirts, I’d like colors, decorative buttons, and a nice tailored fit.

High Performance

Anyone can make a shirt, but it takes some real design chops and knowledge of material and body science, to make a good travel shirt. I look for shirts that exhibit some of the following features: moisture/sweat wicking, quick drying, anti-microbial, odor resistant, wide temperature support and stain-resistant.

Quality Materials and Construction

Merino wool is the name of the game here. While not all good travel tops are made of wool, this is nature’s miracle fabric that has replaced much of my travel wardrobe. We’ve extolled the virtues of wool before, but briefly: it keeps you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot and doesn’t stink.

Here’s my list of the best shirts I’ve used and tested for the past six to twelve months. I’ve worn them on weekend trips to LA for weddings, to Portland for the holidays, to DC during a heatwave, a couple of weeks in Japan and just plain EDC to work and about town.

Best Travel T-Shirt

Western Rise Dryweight Merino Tee

I had been wearing Western Rise’s StrongCore tee for a few years but I yearned for something a little lighter and more versatile, especially for warmer summer months. The Dryweight tee is perfect and actually my go to year round, except for the coldest of climates.

What I Liked:

Instead of a 100% Merino t-shirt, the team at Telluride put in equal parts wool and Tencel. The latter is derived from Eucalyptus plants and excels at wicking and cooling, so perfect for high intensity, warm weather activity. Combining it with the natural Merino, gives the shirt super-fabric capabilities; performing better than pure Merino alone.

What I Didn’t Like:

This is my go to t-shirt so there isn’t much I don’t like. A small niggle is the $96 price tag. I received mine as a test sample and I still would buy it, especially after testing it, but I can see how it could be a hard pill to swallow for a t-shirt.

• -Lightweight and perfect for most climates
• -Regulates temperature and quick wicking
• -May be expensive for the price sensitive

Softest Travel T-Shirt

CIVIC The Antoni Tee

CIVIC was born from Taylor Stitch, one of my favorite San Francisco brands. While TS has figured out the secret sauce and makes everything from suits to leather boots, they needed a way to design and sell an essentials line. I almost said “basics” but that does a disservice to CIVIC because they produce a cohesive collection of clothing that could serve as staples in a very impressive wardrobe.

The handfeel of this shirt is amazing. It’s a heavier weight (falls sort of between the DryWeight and StrongCore shirts), yet drapes nicely and has a luxurious feeling weave. This shirt keeps you a little warmer than the DryWeight and its thickness lends itself well to wearing to a semi-nice restaurant if you needed.

CIVIC is not the only maker affected by this but I really don’t like how the edges of the shirt, particularly at the bottom, sort of curl or roll up. This could be my drying technique (low tumble, no heat), or the fact that I don’t iron my tees, but it sort of irritates me. I don’t really think people even notice it but I know it’s there. Again, really minor issue that is entirely cosmetic.

• -Super soft and feels substantial to wear
• -The cut and material means it pairs well with a nice pair of jeans for a clean, slightly dressed up look
• -Edges (bottom, sleeves) have a tendency to slightly curl. You may want to consider ironing after you wash

Best Basic Travel T-Shirt

Woolly Ultralight Short Sleeve V-Neck Tee

Woolly was founded by three friends in Seattle who wanted to bring Merino wool to the masses. Their garments are made from certified Australian Merino and have a satisfaction guarantee.

At $50, this is a fair price for a basic tee of this caliber. I am just using the word basic to simple in design and not lacking in features. At 150 GSM, Woolly calls this Ultralight but I’d call it “just right”. It’s actually has some heft and weight to it, which you can feel when you pick it up on the the hanger.

This shirt is a wardrobe staple. The neckline is not too aggressive and it’s reinforced which means it lays better on your body instead of crinkling or curling. The weight keeps you warm but is not too heavy so it should be comfortable in everything but the hottest days.

The fabric is not the softest. Certain Merino can have a slightly rough, almost cotton feel to it. The logo and wash directions are printed behind the neck where you’d normally find a tag but has a tendency is rub off after a few washes. While I appreciate minimal (and in this case, disappearing) branding, it also means I lose laundering directions with it.

• -Great price for an intro to the world of Merino
• -Versatile; pack one t-shirt for your whole trip
• -Nice weight
• -Hand feel is not that great; kind of rough. Feels fine when wearing though
• -Laundry directions can rub or wash away after a few wears

Also consider:

There’s nothing more core to a travel wardrobe than the Merino tee and pretty much every company in this article will sell you their version. It’s really hard to narrow things down and at the end of the day, it just came down to personal preference, and not because of any major issues. If the Woolly doesn’t check your boxes, you can take a look at the Conyoy Tee from Olivers , and tees from Unbound Merino. Outlier’s Ultrafine line is also a staple amongst our contributors and but is in the top-tier pricetag at $110. And if you haven’t already tried shirts from heavyweights like Icebreaker and Smartwool , you really owe it to yourself to stock some of their wares in your closet. If not their basic tees, then their socks and boxers should make an appearance. They consistently make some of the best performing wool clothing.

Best Travel Henley

Olivers Convoy Henley

David Wolfe launched Olivers in 2013 after his successful Kickstarter campaign for the All Over Short. I’ve had my eye on them since after wearing a different short of theirs, The Capital. At that time, I took it all over Washington D.C. exploring the sites and trying to stay one step ahead of the July heatwave. I declared it the best travel shorts at that time, and no others have usurped it since. I’ve kept in touch with the team and in six years, they’ve grown their collection into something mature and refined, but playful and fun at the same time. Designed and manufactured in Los Angeles, I feel like Olivers has one of the more complete one-stop shops for performance everyday clothing, which happens to be perfect for travel as well.

I have to admit, I wasn’t much of a henley guy until this past winter. Personally, I have issues regulating body temperature and comfort exactly and often get hot quickly if I go out in a sweater or jacket but I also have goosebumps when I am out in only a tee. What’s the solution? At least one that still looks great? The Convoy Henly is super soft, slim fitting, and has four buttons which helps you regulate your body temperature. Wear it unbuttoned for a more casual beach vibe or bundled up for a cleaner look.

The price might be a little high for some but I think it’s well worth it for an item that should last years.

• -Excellent cut, fit, and comfortable to wear
• -Nice variety of colors
• -Versatile; works in casual and nicer scenarios
• -Easy to regulate temperature with buttons; can be paired with a warm vest for core warm while keeping arms cool

There are a number of brands that make excellent henleys. Another to consider is the Zaha from Civic . Imagine the soft plush Civic tee I described above but in a long sleeve form. It uses their Mercerized wool which is a treatment to remove the itch from traditional Merino. It’s one of the most comfortable pieces I own and I just love the drape and how it fits. At $125, it should definitely be on your radar.

Best Long Sleeve Travel Crew

Unbound Merino Long Sleeve Crew

Similar to Woolly, Unbound Merino was also founded by three friends. They followed a rock band around the country, and found a passion for living abroad. Constant travel and minimal packing is the perfect use case for Merino and Unbound is perfectly suited to create solutions based on their experience in this arena. If you are looking for a long sleeve crew that is a little more basic and less frills than a henley, this might be the perfect top.

At 190 g/m2, Unbound considers their long sleeve crew ultralight. This is certainly the case and unless you’re in temperate conditions, I’d use this only as a baselayer, with at least something light on top or a vest. The material is ultra soft, maybe among the softest and most comfortable of all base tops I’ve worn but it is certainly light. Holding it up to the light, you can see the silhouette of your hand through one layer.

The construction is no-frills but well done with reinforced stitching at critical areas. It naturally is moisture-wicking, antibacterial and anti-wrinkle. I found the fit to be slim but not limiting and the simple colors, black and navy, make it a no-brainer to pack on a trip.

I found the sleeves to be a bit too narrow but of course, your mileage (and build) my vary. I don’t mind form fitting clothes but, in my case, it took about twenty minutes to get used to.

• -Each product comes with a little booklet with care instruction
• -Super soft and luxurious feeling, 100% Merino
• -Flattering cut
• -Depending on your build, arms may be a bit slim

Wool & Prince also offers a long sleeve crew neck and it works a treat. This is truly a no frills shirt and won’t win any fashion awards but as a baselayer or paired with a vest or sweater, it does quite well. It’s 160gsm Merino with about a quarter nylon blend for an excellent drape and handfeel. I love the deep blue in my navy sample and it’s a staple for me during fall and winter months.

Also Duckworth’s Comet Crew is super solid.

Best Travel Polo

Wool&Prince Polo

Wool&Prince are no strangers to wool but whereas some companies above are focused on the basics market, Wool&Prince have their sites more upmarket, targeting someone who is regularly dressing up, for work or play, but wants the benefits of technical fabrics. While they are mostly known for their wool dress shirts, the item that find myself always grabbing from my closet, is their polo.

I received a polo in Heather Gray for testing and it’s my go to piece. I know that for some men, polos are relegated to the golf course or seem like a lazy way to look presentable when you were in grade school, but hear me out: I think that anytime you have a collared shirt, you are already showing some amount of effort. And while short sleeves often designate a casual look, having that collar paired with buttons and a clean, modern cut, makes for a convincing outfit for a nice lunch or even an early dinner.

The heather gray color of my sample is so non-polarizing which makes it versatile. I loved the 205 g/m2 weight which is a tad heavier than some baselayers listed above, but gives enough coverage and warmth without being sweater-like. They also designed the collars to stay upright more for a more modern look. The best thing I like about the Wool&Prince polo is they managed to get it as comfortable as a t-shirt but while ticking off some of the formal boxes.

After a couple of wears, the button holes in my shirt are showing wear. This is true of most polos and in this case they do look reinforced. I think that it may be a con of Merino to not be rigid enough to handle repeated stretching that comes with operating buttons.

• -Great construction and comfortable
• -Easy solution to look dressed up without much effort
• -Just the right weight
• -Priced under $100
• -Button holes show wear easily. Be careful when operating

If you are into polos, and want a more slim, perhaps more minimal look, check out what Woolly has to offer . I often wear one in black and I just love it. It’s closer to a t-shirt – a bit slimmer, feels a bit lighter weight, and more form fitting. It’s extremely comfortable and works best untucked and unbuttoned (at least the top one) due to how the collar rests. At just over $50, it’s a downright bargain.

Best Formal Button-Up Travel Shirt

Mizzen+Main Leeward

Mizzen+Main is a brand after my own heart. They were started when the founder saw a D.C. staffer run up the hill is a sweaty, wrinkled shirt. So he sought out to combine the advances in athletic wear with custom dress shirts. While we often think of Merino as nature’s super-fabric, there have been many advances in man-made technical fabrics and the Leeward is an example that leverages this.

I received a Hampton (in the Leeward collection) in Blue Check and it is a great all around shirt, but I primarily focused on using it during the summer. It’s constructed of a mix of 85% polyester and 15% spandex. You may have seen similar compositions before, especially in travel pants. The advantages are clear – four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, machine washable, and anti-wrinkle.

Whenever I find a company that is making dress clothes with technical fabrics, I am usually weary that they are an athletic company trying to break into fashion. It’s never a good look. What I like about Mizzen+Main is they are a dress-shirt maker first, and they were able to apply that knowledge and construction using non-traditional fabrics. They added features that you’d find in traditional dress shirt makers like darts for a slimmer fit, contrast stitching button holes, optional magnetic collar stays, and a spread collar.

At first, polyester dress shirts always take some time getting used to, especially if you’ve gone all your life wearing traditional materials. I also wish they included metal collar stays.

• -Beautifully tailored modern dress shirts with great features
• -Three different fits available means there’s probably something that works for everyone
• -Plenty of pattern choices
• -Fairly priced for a shirt that is no hassle and so versatile (does great in wet weather, stretch for comfort, washes easily and doesn’t wrinkle)
• -Plastic collar stays
• -Polyester may not be for everyone

I only brought one dress shirt with me on my honeymoon and it was from Wool&Prince . Their button-downs are 100% Merino but look and feel just a tailored shirt. If you have any experience with Merino, you know there are limitations of how you can cut and sew it but somehow Wool&Prince cracked the code. Their shirts are super comfortable, are offered in over a dozen styles and prints, and three fits. I went with the regular but I think I’ll try slim next time for a more modern look.

Ministry of Supply also has a number of shirts on offer, but I am really drawn towards their Apollo 3 Dress Shirt . It was one of their first offerings and it takes its name from the fact that it’s made of the same material that NASA invented to keep astronaut body temperatures regulated.  It’s reportedly 19x more breathable than comparable cotton shirts. And last, but not least, how can we forget about Bluffworks? I  have their first Meridian Dress shirt in blue check and I’ve worn it to many a meeting and, of course, on trips. The 2% spandex added helps with stretch and it maintains all the key features you want: quick drying, doesn’t wrinkle, cool in all temps, and antimicrobial.

Best Casual Button-Up Travel Shirt

CIVIC The Jack

Purposely or not, performance clothing companies tend to slot themselves into certain categories. You have Mizzen+Main which prefers to use polyester and spandex paired with traditional shirtmaking to up the performance while giving wearers the same good looks they expect. And you have some other companies that focus on the basics of a wardrobe (simple tees, henleys, boxers, maybe a polo). CIVIC is one of my favorite companies because they lie somewhere in between. Merino wool is their weapon of choice but they have some great design chops as well; not surprising given their heritage from Taylor Stitch.

The Jack has become one of my favorite pieces to pack on a trip. In fact, I did just that when I visited some friends in Portland a few weeks ago. It uses their blend of 70% Merino and 30% Sorona, a plant-based fiber which gives increased strength and movement. The result is a perfectly balanced 220 gsm that provides both warmth and structure. It’s difficult to make certain types of clothing out of 100% wool. It’s a naturally soft material so you cannot get that  crisp look that people expect from certain items (like dress shirts). The buttons are high quality and the construction is great.

First and foremost, I love the fit of The Jack. I think the chest, shoulders, and waist are perfect. It’s a slim fit which is usually flattering, but not too tight as to restrict movement. It looks great tucked or not, so it’s perfect for many different occasions. I paired it with a jacket for a meal at an upscale sushi restaurant and it definitely filled the role.

On me, the arms are a little long and this picture exaggerates it a bit. In practice, I don’t feel the bagginess at all but as always, your mileage may vary.

• -Perfect construction; great trim fit.
• -Blend of Merino and Sorona is just right to give softness while maintaining some crispiness  you expect from a dress shirt
• -Great everyday shirt
• -Arms may be a bit baggy

If you are traveling for business, especially in less secure areas of the world, check out the Clothing Arts Pick-Pocket Proof Business Travel Shirt . While being a mouthful to say, it’s a shirt built from the ground up with travel and security in mind. It features UPF 30+ sun protection, quick dry for easy travel laundry, and a combination of hidden and secure pockets so you can rest assured you’ll be able to access your passport or emergency cash if you do get targeted. The look is a little less fashion forward compared to The Jack, but the cut and materials are more suited for warmer weather (even tropical) while looking perfectly passable for business casual.

Best Travel Blazer or Travel Jacket

Ministry of Supply Kinetic Blazer

Ministry of Supply is a company that is rooted in Boston and got its start on Kickstarter. After numerous successful campaigns, they now operate multiple stores, as well as a modern online presence. Aman and his team really fancy themselves clothing scientists, studying pressure, doing temperature scans, poring over stretch details and surveying users. I view them as the Tesla of the clothing world, up there with brands like Nike and Lululemon which operate performance labs, except they may be the only ones doing it for the performance fashion sector and not sports.

My Kinetic Blazer is a beautiful navy and the texture reminds me a bit of an old jacket a professor or your father might have worn. It’s made with a Japanese warp-knit Kinetic fabric which gives it four-way stretch, great wrinkle resistance, and quick-dry features. What I like most though is it looks and performs just like a regular blazer and fits like a glove.

It’s not the cheapest jacket, weighing in at just over $300 but I think it’s worth it. It is a more considered blazer than one you’d find off the rack with performance features built in.

• -Japanese Kinetic fabric has four way stretch, dries quickly, and is less likely to be wrinkled when you arrive to your destination
• -Comfortable and fits well; pairs with any dress shirt and slacks
• -Fabric has a great feel and looks different depending on lighting

When I think of performance travel blazer, the first thing that comes to mind is the Bluffworks Gramercy Blazer . I met Stefan at OR a few years after I had already been testing his clothing; first with his pants then later shirt and blazer. It has been amazing to see a small company tackle one item at a time and work with factories and fabric companies to get it just right. The Gramercy Blazer uses 100% polyester that is engineered for stretch, breatheability, machine-washable, and most importantly, looks great. I’ve seen plenty of polyester clothing but when you feel the Gramercy Blazer, you’d swear it’s a natural material. Besides the performance features, Bluffworks knocks it out of the park by adding in 10 pockets (many hidden) to make the jacket a perfect travel companion.

Best Travel Jacket For Wet Weather

Clothing Arts Cubed Travel Jacket

I’ve gotten to know Adam from Clothing Arts and through our months of communicating, you can tell that he is one passionate traveler and maker. Like others on this list, he found a need and a market that was not being addressed and he started Clothing Arts to tackle the problem of how to travel safely, anywhere in the world. Their clothing has stopped over 70 pickpocket attempts worldwide, with more stories coming in all the time.

The first Clothing Arts sample I was sent was the big daddy, their flagship, the Cubed Travel Jacket. This thing is a beast, featuring an eVent DVStorm Membrane, innovative pocketing, and 4 season versatility. The jacket is waterproof and windproof while maintaining breathability. It weighs 1lb 11 oz so it’s not exactly lightweight but you get loads of performance in return. Luckily, it folds down quite nicely and can easily be stowed in a packing cube.

Depending on your torso height, when it’s fully zipped, the jacket can encroach on the neck and lower half of your face. This is not unlike other shells but I found the upper part of the jacket/hood to be somewhat stiff and I didn’t like having it fully zipped at all times. This is rarely an issue since the hood is so easily removed and you’ll most often be wearing it unattached.

• -Top in class rain and wind protection from eVent DVStorm fabric
• -Quick-attach hood system
• -Multiple security pockets
• -Cinch pulls, waterproof zippers, velcro closures – all make for great protection against the elements
• -Neck and hood area stiff and can get uncomfortable if fully zipped

On the surface, this is a purely technical jacket. It uses eVent which is a high performing wind and water resistant fabric. If you’re just looking for a shell, you have a lot of choices including offerings from Patagonia and Arcteryx, they’re classic and awesome. The difference is Clothing Arts is a travel and security focused company so they put in a bunch of security and hidden pockets. If that’s not vital to you then any good technical shell would work great for travel.

I tested over a dozen tees, henleys, button-downs, and jackets to find what would work best for traveling. We are big proponents of packing not just minimally but intelligently and the only way to do that effectively is to ask more from our clothing. Companies like Western Rise , Civic, Wool&Prince , etc are taking modern fabrics and pairing it with research and adding in clever features, to make clothing that looks great and performs even better. I don’t expect you to mimic my choices exactly here. Instead, I hope that by giving you information about the brands and products, you can start thinking about what features you need and want in travel shirts and this article can serve as a guide to help you when you’re packing for your next trip.

Liked this article? Why not check out these too:

The Best Travel Pants for One-Bag Travelers

The Best Backpacks for One Bag Travel

The Best Travel Shoes for Every Type of Traveler

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David gets right into the details, in a way that few can. He prefers carry gear that lets him get active. He rides bikes, eats good food, and has a digital footprint approaching a yeti.

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Wear it Your Way: The Versatile and Timeless Men's Polo Shirts You Need in Your Wardrobe

Joe niehaus.

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Some occasions call for nice attire, but not too nice—happy hours, dinner dates (can’t try too hard), and more. When a dress shirt feels like too much and a t-shirt isn’t formal enough, polo shirts fill the void.

The best men’s polo shirts combine good looks, breathable fabrics, and a nice fit. These are our top picks. From brands like Reigning Champ to Lululemon, there’s sure to be a shirt that fits your needs.

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The Birdie Men's Short Sleeve Performance Polo

Things to consider when shopping for the best polos.

Polo shirts have a rich heritage when it comes to men’s fashion. Originally used in India in the 19th Century by polo players who were dissatisfied with thick long sleeves, the best ones strike a nice balance between performance, style, and comfort.

Fit And Style

Even if a piece of clothing has a stylish look, it’ll be for not if it doesn’t fit your body. A well-fitted polo should be slim, but relaxed, gently forming to the contours of your body. Polos that are too loose look sloppy, while overly tight shirts are restricting and signal bad fashion.

Also make sure the style fits the scenario—classic and slim styles are better for dressier situations why relaxed, performance polos are best for weekends and travel.

Fabrics And Materials

Most polos today are made from a specific weaving technique called piqué knit that gives the shirt its signature waffle-like texture, while also offering flexible breathability. Cotton has traditionally been used, but newer styles and brands like Rhoback and Vuori use synthetic fibers that are better for sweat management and stretchiness. Go for cotton if you won’t be moving a lot and performance blends if you’ll be active and sweating.

Color And Design

A suitable polo shirt collection has a mix of solid colors, neutral shades like black or grey, and perhaps some stripes or patterns for when you want to let loose. The most important thing is to have a well-balanced array—no need to over index in either category, and different settings will be better for different styles.

Polos are great all year round: In warmer weather they can easily fly solo, while colder months will likely require a jacket or sweater. If you’re in the office, opt for classic colors like black, white, or navy and make sure they compliment your pants and shoes.

Outdoor activities like tennis or hiking should have performance features like UV protection, sweat resistance, and wrinkle-free materials. Think about how much movement your body will be getting—generally speaking, cotton should be for chill days and synthetic materials for active settings.

Our Top Picks:

Rhoback makes a wide range of activewear for guys, and The Birdie polo is a shining example of a golf polo. It’s made of a polyester-spandex blend and comes in a wide range of cool designs and patterns that’ll look great on the links.

Best Cotton Polo Shirt

Mack Weldon

Pima T-Shirt Polo

Mack Weldon’s Pima T-Shirt Polo uses soft 100% Pima cotton that comes in a relaxed fit that looks great tucked or untucked.

Best Performance Polo Shirt

Evolution Short-Sleeve Polo Shirt

The Evolution Short-Sleeve Polo Shirt are the yoga pants of polo shirts. Yes, it’s made by Lululemon, but it also uses a sporty tri-blend fabric great for sports or socials.

Best Casual Polo Shirt

Reigning Champ

Lightweight Jersey Polo

Reigning Champ makes some of the best quality basics and this polo is one of my favorites. I wear the Lightweight Jersey Polo in the subtle Aloe color with jeans or khaki shorts and appreciate how light, versatile, and slim it looks.

Best Striped Polo Shirt

Todd Snyder

Japanese Nautical Stripe Polo

The Japanese Nautical Stripe Polo uses 100% cotton sourced from Japan for a classic-but-fresh silhouette. It has a handy chest pocket (for your sea navigation tools, of course) and features a buttonless collar.

Best Solid Color Polo Shirt(s)

Ralph Lauren

Soft Cotton Polo Shirt - All Fits

What could be more iconic than a polo from… Polo Ralph Lauren? The Soft Cotton Polo Shirt comes in Classic or Custom Slim fits with a ton of colors and the signature embroidered jockey logo on the left chest. It really doesn’t get better than this.

Men's Original L.12.12 Petit Piqué Cotton Polo

Similar to Ralph Lauren, Lacoste has been in the polo game for decades. The Original L.12.12 Petite Piqué Cotton Polo is an elegant staple in a rainbow of colorways.

Best Lightweight Polo Shirt

Second Skin Comfort Polo

Soft modal, Pima cotton, and stretchy spandex come together to create the “Second Skin” polo from Tommy John. This is the perfect shirt for warm weather and the tagless label ensures no annoying itching when you’re trying to move around swiftly.

Best Moisture-Wicking Polo Shirt

Utilizer Polo Shirt

Columbia’s outdoor expertise is fully embodied in the Utilizer Polo Shirt. It comes in Standard, Big, and Tall sizes and has special moisture wicking and UPF 30-protection fabric. It’s great for anything you’re doing outside, whether hiking or mowing the lawn.

Best Travel Polo Shirt

Strato Tech Polo

Vuori’s best-selling polo is popular for a reason. It’s made of anti-odor and quick-drying fabric that’ll get you from point A to point B while keeping you fresh and ready for your next appointment. Not to mention, it’s about the softest material available—I recently picked one up and it feels like a portable fuzzy blanket, no hyperbole.

Best Slim Fit Polo Shirt

Stretch Pique Polo

The Stretch Pique Polo comes in a Slim cut that has a slight taper, perfect for a put-together look in the office. It’s made of cotton-spandex blend that looks classy, but has a touch of performance stretch.

Most Versatile Polo Shirt

Fair Harbor

The Kismet Polo

Transitioning from the beach to dinner? The Kismet Polo is made from organic cotton and recycled polyester that offers breathability and fashion. The brand uses nine plastic bottles to make a shirt, but beware, this polo’s beachy colors may keep you in a never ending state of “tropical chill.”

How to Style Men’s Polo Shirts 

While polo shirts have, and always will be, in style because of their iconic appeal and ultimate versatility, the ways you can style them have opened up for the better. As long as the bottoms match the polo and the setting, the outfit will work.

For example, solid-color slim-fit polos look great with chinos or dress pants at formal events and relaxed patterned shirts work great with swim trunks or shorts when you’re on vacation. Another thing to keep in mind is that dress polos should be tucked in for a formal look while more casual shirts look great untucked. You want the hem to sit just below the waist for perfect tucking.

Which Are The Best Polo Shirt Brands?

Of course, Polo Ralph Lauren and Lacoste are two of the most iconic polo shirt brands, so you can’t go wrong, but new entrants such as luxury brand Sunspel or Buck Mason have also been making waves with their premium looks.

If you’re looking for a techy shirt, it’s best to go with athleisure brands such as Lululemon, Vuori, or Mack Weldon, as they’re designed for sports and will often have proprietary fabric blends.

Is It Professional to Wear a Polo Shirt?

If you’re not sure what to wear, then opt for a polo. They’re as casual as they are formal. Polo shirts are great for the office, especially on regular non-board meeting days. Just be sure that they fit properly and aren’t wrinkly.

Should I Wear My Polo Shirts Tucked In or Out?

Wearing a polo tucked in or out is a matter of preference and occasion. It’s best to tuck in your shirt at dressy settings like work or a meeting, but on the weekends or out with buddies, a relaxed tucked out fit could be more appropriate. It’s also important to consider when style goes best with the pants or shorts you’re wearing.

What Fabrics Are Best For Men’s Polos?

The best fabric depends on the situation. Cotton has classic softness and works best with dress clothes, while cotton piqué offers a unique sporty look. For sweat management, go for blends that include synthetic fabrics such as polyester and elastane. These will often have specific features like UPF sun protection and four-way stretch.

Looking for more fashion advice and inspiration? Browse our fashion edit and explore all of our favorite fashion products .

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The 17 Best Men’s Travel Shirts for Style, Comfort, and Adventure

As much as I hate to admit it, the perfect men’s travel shirt doesn’t exist.  You might find comfortable travel shirts that look good – but those same “perfect travel shirts” may be too delicate to adventure hard in, dry too slowly, and get destroyed when you drop it off at a Southeast Asian laundry kiosk. On the other hand, a shirt may dry quickly and withstand a beating but be a little too ugly to be your only shirt. So what’s the solution?

The solution to the “perfect travel shirt” problem is to strategically pick a few shirts for your travels with a dedicated shirt for looking good, a few shirts for adventuring and wandering hard, and an all-purpose shirt that sits somewhere in between – and I think I’ve mastered this compromise.

Read on to discover my favorite shirts for traveling, adventuring, and still looking good along the way

CONTENTS OF THIS GUIDE TO THE BEST MEN’S TRAVEL SHIRTS

• My optimal travel shirt setup
• What to look for in a Good Travel Shirt Based on Your Travels
• Technical Flannel Shirts
• Travel Ready Dress Shirts
• Short Sleeve Oxfords
• Denim Travel Shirts
• Hawaiian Shirts
• My Favorite Travel Jacket: The Bluffworks Field Jacket

THE OPTIMAL SHIRT SETUP FOR TRAVEL

If you want your packing list to be ready for anything, pack the following shirts in addition to some travel-ready pants and travel-worthy shoes :

• One shirt for looking good and going out – a versatile button down shirt, ideally short sleeve oxford that is sweat wicking and wrinkle free or a denim shirt
• One shirt that doubles as a warmth layer but can be worn anywhere – I’m a fan of lightweight, technical flannel shirts
• Three or more travel friendly t-shits –a mix of short sleeves, V-necks, and Henleys made of wool, synthetic materials (polyester), or a proven active wear blend to dry quickly and resist funk

If you stick to these three options, you’ll keep your bags light while still being ready for any occasion or adventure.  Read on to discover my favorite options for Men’s travel shirts.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A GREAT TRAVEL SHIRT

Keep in mind that though a shirt might be branded as a great “travel shirt” it still may be over kill (or inadequate) for your travels.  To pick the right travel shirt, that will keep you comfortable, looking good, and smelling good through whatever travels you have in store, think heavily about your destination and consider these points in your potential shirts…

What is the right style for your travels (if any) based on the destination if any?

What materials are best (polyester, wool, or an active wear cotton blend), durability: how hard will your adventures be on these shirts.

• Versatility: What situations will you need to dress for?

Smell and dirt resistance: How often will you be able to shower and do laundry?

If you’re going to Europe, having a nice short sleeve button down is highly recommended.  If you’re going to Southeast Asia, don’t even think about taking any long sleeve shirts.

If you’re doing the Banana Pancake Trail (Thailandà Laosà Vietnamà Cambodia) and the most you’ll do is a pub crawl, ditch the fancy stuff

And if you’re heading to Bali, plan on beachwear and your “nice clothes” being shorts and a nice short sleeve shirt.

In any case, think about the situations you’ll be in and the style required (or not required) to avoid extra clothing.  Here’s a quick cheat list to help

• Southeast Asia: You’ll be in sandals and shorts the entire time.  No long sleeves.
• South America: It may get chilly and adventurous, especially if you’re going to Patagonia, so a long sleeve flannel, an “island-ish” short sleeve button down, and plenty of Merino Wool/Quick Dry t-shirts will do you well.  Also, bring a set of nice clothes – as Buenos Aires, Rio, Cusco, and Medellin have some amazing nightlife
• Europe: You’ll only need one or two “adventurous” pairs of clothes at most (unless you’re trekking).  Dress for the seasons as  winter in Europe is vastly different than summer
• Middle East: Dress conservatively and plan for the deserts to be hot by day and cold by night. You’ll be surprised how far a wool t-shirt and flannel button-down will take you here.
• North America: Dress for the seasons and for specific locations.  We’re all across the board in the US and Canadialand.
• Central America: No long sleeves.  Plan to exist completely in shorts and sandals.

If you can afford it, wool is the most amazing material for shirts .  ( Read about how I decided to wear a wool shirt for a week straight to test the idea).  They resist funk, still keep you warm when wet, and dry quickly.  The only downside is these shirts will breakdown quicker than polyester – especial if you’re using an industrial washer.

Polyester/synthetic shirts are an excellent, cheap option, especially for hard adventuring.  You can purchase them at target for ~$10 or less and they stand up to heavy abuse.  Along the way, they dry quickly and insulate when wet. The downside is they don’t resist funk too well.  Personally, I always hike and travel (by bus, train, and plane) in synthetic shirts because they’re so cheap I don’t care if they get destroyed.  I recommend picking up at least a couple synthetic t-shirts for routine wear in hard conditions.

Cotton: Limit how much of your wardrobe is cotton.  Depending on how often you’re getting wet and how often you wash, cotton can be fine or can be a complete pain.  On the upside, some cotton shirts look good, they’re extremely durable, and they can stand to go a good amount of time between washes in a pinch (denim, not necessarily t-shirts). The only options I consider in cotton are Short sleeve button downs which class up very well, and denim shirts which are super durable, look good, and are a great protect layer for light adventures (like motorbiking in Asia .

The only upside of cotton is that it is much tougher than wool and polyester, with good abrasion resistance and actually gets better with wear.  This is why my denim shirt was my shirt of choice to wear during my motorbike ride through Vietnam , to save a little skin just in case I fell.  All the while, it still looked good enough for the bars.

If you’re in Europe and (should be) showering everyday and have laundry nearby, materials and worrying about getting smelly shouldn’t be too much of an issue.

On the other hand, if you’re moving super quickly through humid Southeast Asia or adventuring through South America and can only wash ever week and a half, do yourself a favor and get shirts made of technical materials (wool, polyester, etc.) that wick sweat, resist odor, and do more to keep you dry.

Now that you know what to look for in a travel shirt, let’s take a closer look at your options

THE BEST MEN’S TRAVEL SHIRTS

• T-Shirts (Wool, Polyester, and active wear blends – timeless, simple, near perfect travel shirts)
• Technical Flannel Shirts (every traveler should have one)
• Wrinkle Free Dress Shirts (great for looking good anywhere)
• Short Sleeve Oxfords (great for looking good anywhere)
• Denim travel shirts (the “all-arounder” and travel shirt underdog)
• Hawaiian Shirts (for Beachy Travel)

BEST T-SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

(wool, polyester, and active wear blends).

As unexciting as it sounds, t-shirts are by far the best travel shirt option. They’ve been around for ages, worn in every activity, and performed well while staying stylish every step of the way.  If you take only one type of shirt traveling, stick to t-shirts.

In terms of style, you can’t go wrong with a well fitting t-shirt.

The small packing foot print of t-shirts makes them easy to pack and wash, lightening your load and making life easier.

Some might insist that t-shirts are too boring to wear for a year straight.  I disagree.

To stay looking good (and not get bored), avoid traditional crew neck t-shirts and light V-neck and Henley shirts in dark colors (grey, burgundy, darker blue, black).

For material, invest in at least two wool shirts and grab two cheaper synthetic shirts. 

I have been very satisfied with Wooly’s merino wool t-shirts, Bluffworks’ synthetic travel t shirt, Outlier’s insanely great Ultrafine Merino shirt, and a handful of others I’ve tested and highly recommend below. 

For active wear synthetic shirts, my go to is actually the Hylete Icon-2 performance Henley, designed as gym wear but looks so great I wear it on nights out. For a Target’s G9 Champion brand shirts which are comparable in quality, function, and style to Lulu Lemon’s men’s line and quite a few of Nike’s pieces, but available for ~$10 to $20 for us budget travelers .  

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves…read on for the 17 best travel t-shirts for men, and you’ll definitely find the perfect gear for your upcoming travels.

My Favorite T-Shirts for Travel

1. bluffworks threshold tee.

This amazing t-shirt was obsessively designed specifically for travel. If you’re trying to keep your bags light by getting a shirt that you can wear over and over (without washing) in a variety of conditions, the Bluffworks Threshold T is a perfect candidate.

High breathability, great odor resistance, and a feel softer than cotton make this a great shirt to wear. A unique synthetic blend keeps this shirt super light while drying quickly and making hand washes and line drying possible for “one bag” travelers”

Where to buy: Click to see more colors at Bluffworks Online

2. THE OUTLIER ULTRAFINE MERINO T SHIRT

This is insanely soft yet comfortable and durable shirt is absolutely the best wool shirt I have ever owned.

Made of 100% extremely fine Merino wool, this shirt naturally resists odor (I’ve worn the shirt for a week straight to test), dries quickly, and does a wonderful job keeping me cool even in tropical climates.

The construction is top notch, very durable and cut with a just slim enough and stylish fit. With 2 or 3 of these shirts, a traveler could easily wander the world with these as their only shirts.

Where to buy: Click to see more colors Outlier Online

3. THE HYLETE ICON HENLEY

The Hylete Icon 2 Henley is a perfect blend of style and function that fits daily life, adventure, and travel equally. The quad blend performance fabric (that is stretchy, odor resisting, and quick drying) and design are actually intended as hard core exercise that can be worn in everyday life. With the classic Henley stylish three button front, this dresses up nicely with Chinos and a blazer or will simply keep you looking good on long treks.

From the cool highlands of the Himilayas to the warm days and posh night clubs of Bali, this Hylete Henley has been a favorite piece of apparel in my pack and will continue to be. I highly recommend this affordable yet stylish piece of performance gear for your travels

Where to buy: Click to see more colors available at Hylete Online.

4. WOOLY CLOTHING

Woolly Clothing offers great wool clothing direct to you, which means its cheaper than many other options.  I own a few of their shirts (a V-neck and a Henley) and wholeheartedly vouch for the.  Great style.  Great performance

Where to buy: Check out the selection of Woolly Clothing on Amazon

5. C-9 CHAMPION TEES

Champion C9 is Target’s in house attempt to compete with active wear giants like Nike and Lulelemon for the men’s athletic wear market.  The result is great gym wear that wears beyond the gym for a great price.  I always load up on a few of these shirts for upcoming travels whenever I’m in the US.

Where to buy: $12.99 at Target

6. H&M ACTIVE WEAR V-NECKS

Though these shirts somewhat break my rule of avoiding cotton, the 95% cotton/5% Elastene blend works extremely well.  Not only do these shirts fit well and maintain that fit, they dry much quicker than normal cotton shirts and resist funk pretty well too.  I tested these shirts against high dollar “performance cotton” shirts from other brands (think $60-$80 per shirt) and the H&M slim fit shirts performed much better.

If you’re ever traveling and in a pinch need some shirts anywhere in the world, just drop by an H&M and pick these up. 

Where to buy: $24.99 for 3 at H&M Online

7. RIDGE MERINO JOURNEY TEE

The Ridge Merino Journey tee is an awesome, travel-ready wool tee-shirt design for durability, hard use, and quick-drying comfort while still fighting funk. This Merino Wool shirt combines 13% nylon into the fabric, making it twice as durable as your average, 100% Merino wool t-shirt. The result is a high performing wool t-shirt that you can abuse for years.

I’ve carried my Ridge Merino Journey tee shirt for just over 2 years of travel and worn it for a week straight without washing, and the anti-microbial nature of the wool keeps me smelling fresh. Hard use of trekking, hand washing, and abrasion from backpacks hasn’t damaged the shirt at all over the two years, proving this is one tough t-shirt

If you’re looking for a single, comfortable t-shirt that looks good and is adventure ready, check out the Ridge Merino Journey t-shirt.

Where to buy: Click to see availability at Ridge Merino online

TECHNICAL FLANNEL SHIRTS

A single technical flannel shirt is a priceless addition to the traveler wardrobe.  Wool flannel shirts are great (I have a Pendleton Board Shirt that I love) and there are plenty of other synthetic “technical flannel” shirts combine nylon and polyester to be just as warm, more durable, and are much lighter and easier to pack.

Additionally, the right flannel shirts can add a touch of style if you pick the right one.  My current flannel works in nearly any occasion, and my Uniqlo Oxford Travel shirt works in the rest of those classy sitauations.

I tested Eddie Bauer’s Traveler Flannel Shirt and fell in love (you’ll see pictures all over the site of me in it) and purchased 3 while it was on sale.  Plus, there are several other options for travel ready technical flannel shirts– read on to discover my picks

MY FAVORITE FLANNEL SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

8. eddie bauer technical flannel.

A flannel shirt crafted perfectly for travelers.  Lightweight polyester and “FreeDry” technology insulates like a jacket when cold but wicks moisture and breathes to keep you cool and dry in the heat.  The fit on this shirt is more classic, giving you room to move make it great for exploring the outdoors and getting active.  The cuff accent colors offer a great touch too.

I’ve toted this shirt around for the last year, love it, and can’t recommend it enough.

Where to buy: From $35 to $70 at Eddie Bauer Online

9. THE PENDLETON BOARD SHIRT

The Pendleton Board shirt, originally rocked by surfers in the 60’s is a classic that goes anywhere, and being 100% virgin wool is extremely functional too.  It stays warm through the cold and the rain and still breathes in the heat.  I’ve worn mine around more campfires and in more national parks than I can remember – and with good reason.  Better yet, I can wear it right into the city and no one is the wiser.

A timeless shirt that you’ll literally be able to wear forever

Where to buy: $135 at Pendleton.com

10. ICEBREAKER LODGE SHIRT

Icebreaker’s new take on a classic.  100% Merino Wool, this shirt is as technical as it gets, performing in the outdoors (and traveling) while still looking good enough for city life. 

The Merino wool fights odor and stays warm throughout.  Pair with a Merino wool t-shirt for best results

Where to buy: $135 at REI online

TRAVEL READY DRESS SHIRTS

Most commonly labeled “easy care” and targeting business travelers, these shirts are a perfect “dress up” shirt for travelers.  They are usually sweat wicking, breathable, and wrinkle free but have the cut of a nicer button down Oxford.

Best yet, good options can be had for very cheap through Uniqlo and H&M and even better options can be found through Bluffworks that cost a bit more but are well worth the money.

One of my two current “dress up” shirts is actually a Uniqlo easy care oxford that I wore through the cold season of Europe and then came to Asia, chopped of the sleeves and had it sewn for ~$5, and now wear as my island shirt.  But there are plenty of shirts that you won’t have to chop in order to look good.  Read on for my faves.

11 . WESTERN RISE AIRLIGHT BUTTON DOWN

This high tech, travel focused, easy care button down gives you the style of a dress shirt and the durability/easy care you need for travel.

49% Nylon added to the fabric delivers abrasion resistance and easy care properties that make a good shirt to tuck in the bottom of your bag or bring as your only shirt.

Finally, the slim and stylish fit make this shirt perfect for daily wear and long term “one bag” travel just as much as outdoor adventures.

Where to buy: $109 at Western Rise | Click here to check available colors

12. UNIQLO EASY CARE DRESS SHIRT

If you’re on a budget and still need to look good during your travels, Uniqlo’s easy care dress shirts are a great option.  The technical materials breathe, wick sweat, and resist wrinkles so you can wear them longer without caring. I wore one of these through Europe and then chopped of the sleeves to make it my casual island shirt…worked like a charm!

Where to buy: $29.90 at Uniqlo.com

13 . BLUFFWORKS MEDIAN TRAVEL SHIRT

A completely “technical” dress shirt, blending 98% polyester and 2% spandex gives the sweat wicking, anti-microbial qualities so you can wear longer, along with wrinkle resisting qualities and freedom of movement so you can stay comfortable along the way.  If you need to “class up” on the road, the Bluffworks Meridian dress shirt is a safe bet.

Where to buy: $98 at Bluffworks

SHORT SLEEVE OXFORD SHIRTS

Though these commonly break the travel rule of “no cotton”, they actually manage to work very well.

First, the airflow you get from a button prevents you from sweating all over it and getting it completely nasty

Second, most people only wear button down shirts when lounging, so you get away with washing it infrequently.

Third, these shirts are always quite durable and can actually go a little longer without a wash than your common cotton t-shirt. 

Last, these are a classic style staple that can be had for cheap and worn with a bit of versatility.  My go to spot is the Gap – as the shirts always have a classic cut, have a more timeless design (fits just as well in the 1970’s as now and can be worn anywhere in the world), and you can always pay $5 to have the shirt tailored and the fit improved later on.

14. GAP OXFORD SHORT SLEEVE SHIRT

A classic shirt made simply and durably make this another one of my go-to shirts when traveling.  The construction is surprisingly good meaning it will work on hikes and in active situations if you feel like pushing it.  Though this shirt is cotton, it breathes well enough to avoid funk for longer than your active t-shirt.  Beyond the adventures, it looks good enough for most any situation.

Where to buy: Starting at $35 at Gap online

MY FAVORITE DENIM SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

Denim shirts are the unsung hero of travel shirts.  There is a reason that Levis Strauss made his “can’t bust ‘em” gear for goldmining rough necks out of cotton denim – because it works.  Denim shirts are a great all around travel shirt that sits side by side with the technical flannel.

Granted, these denim shirts don’t insulate as well, suck when wet, and take forever to dry, but they look better than flannel and are better if you’re in a situation where you might get thrown around and need an extra layer of skin – like riding a motorbike anywhere in Southeast Asia. Plus, the denim shirt looks good.

A travel tip I got from my buddy “Dr. Strangelove” and his Spanish friends was to actually carry a denim button down on adventures to throw on for nice pics – instead of wearing that sweaty hiking shirt.  That’s actually excellent advice – but I’m a touch too apathetic to execute.

So, if you want a good all-around shirt, that looks good, and you won’t be getting too wet or sweaty, consider the denim shirt.

15. GAP DENIM SHIRTS

Classic cut and fit and constructed well enough to last through your travels.  I have a couple Gap denim shirts that I’ve worn for years and countless countries, and they keep getting better with age.  They’re durable and look good too.

Where to buy: From $40 at Gap

16. THE ORIGINAL: LEVI’S DENIM SHIRT

Levi Strauss did something right with his first couple of creations, cementing “denim” as a style staple.  If you’re going to pick up a denim shirt, you can’t go wrong with the original – Levi’s

Where to buy: Levis.com

HAWAIIAN SHIRTS

Though you wouldn’t expect to see it on this list, if you are venturing to hot or humid climates, Hawaiian shirts are an excellent option.  For one, they’re fun.  People may judge you, but those who don’t will automatically assume you’re fun.

Second, they’re traditional Hawaiian shirts for a reason.  They’re great in the heat and allow just enough breeze while blocking the sun.  They’re also perfect for when you’ve just gotten out of the water.  So, if you’re heading to the islands, consider having some fun and making a Hawaiian shirt your shirt of choice.

Where should you buy these?  Honestly…nowhere in the US.  Buy one on the road as a souvenir.  You can have a custom one made in Southeast Asia for cheap or buy the Balinese version (with real coconut buttons) when you’re in the area.

17. BONUS: THE ONLY JACKET YOU NEED FOR TRAVEL – THE BLUFFWORKS FIELD JACKET

So, you have your perfect travel shirt setup and now need something to layer over it to stay dry, warm, and stylish…what do you choose?

There are literally thousands of options to choose from, between waterproof puffy down jackets, to rainproof shells, but my travels have led me to…exactly one.

The Bluffworks Field Jacket .

This waterproof, windproof take on the classic M-65 military issue field jacket combines the best of style and function that travelers need.

Top of your torso by checking out this Bluffworks Field Jacket Review for full details and even better pictures…

Now that you have the top half of your wardrobe for travel worked out, what’s next?  Clearly you should figure out the best pair of bottoms for your trip by checking out the 15 best travel pants for men and the 5 best travel shorts for men followed closely by my 8 favorite travel shoes for men to create your perfect travel rig.

Like it? Pin it!

Other Great Travel Gear  Content:

• The 8 Best Travel Shoes for Men
• 5 Great Men’s Travel Shorts
• The Best Travel Pants for Men
• My Carry on Packing List

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

The Best Men's Vacation Shirts to Pack This Summer

By Matt Ortile

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

For some, the thrill of travel comes not from visiting exciting places or even scoring the next flight deal—it’s planning the outfits. The best vacation shirts for men (really, the best menswear shirts that anyone can pack in their suitcase) work for a variety of occasions, from hanging out at the beach in Miami to shopping in local artsy neighborhoods of Mexico City to dining at elegant restaurants at the resorts of Amalfi . To help you get ready for your next sun-soaked trip, here are 43 options for some of the best shirts to pack for a summer vacation.

Below are five types of shirts to bring on vacation that can work for a multitude of settings and situations: printed shirts, linen button-downs, knit polos, athleisure tops, and classic white T-shirts. If you’re packing light , it’s all the more important to make sure that what you bring works with other pieces that make it into your bags; even better if they’re easy to wash in case you’re going on a longer trip. If you’re flying, pack one or two of these shirts in your carry-on in case you lose your checked luggage . The selections here come in at multiple price points, and one or two of each—plus a short, a trouser, shoes, and some underwear—will make for a flexible capsule wardrobe fit for most summer vacation plans.

Keep scrolling to see our hit-list of top picks for the best vacation shirts for men, or to jump right to the menswear shirt style you prefer.

Our top picks:

• For all-day sightseeing in the city: Todd Snyder Silk Cotton Ribbed Polo
• For dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant: Ralph Lauren Lightweight Linen Shirt
• For partying out in town with the locals: Banana Republic Lyam Silk Resort Shirt
• For going from the morning hike straight to brunch: AG Jeans Ace Active Performance Polo
• For sitting on the plane for a red-eye flight: Rhone Session Quarter Zip
• For everything else in between: Banana Republic Linen-Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt

Shop men's vacation shirts by style:

Linen button-downs, printed shirts, athleisure tops.

A good linen shirt will take you anywhere from Thailand to Punta Cana and from Palermo to Cuba. Wear it open with shorts and a tank-top and you’re ready for the boardwalk; tuck it into a pair of trousers to dine at the candle-lit restaurant at the resort where you’re staying. Linen is perfect for summer vacations because it’s light and breathable; the weave of the fabric keeps it from sticking to your sweaty skin. And if the fabric feels a little bit rough, good linen softens with repeated wearing and washing (read the care label; most linen shirts are best in cool water and dried on a line in the shade). Nothing says easy breezy vibes like classic white linen, but color on vacation is always a good idea.

Remember “going out” tops? Those weirdly business-casual outfits you wore to the club (or the pre-game at senior housing in college)? It seems like this decade’s equivalent are printed vacation tops—flowy or loudly graphic shirts that scream “I’m going to Puerto Rico !” They evoke good times and irreverence, a mood that matches the elation when the group chat finally makes the long-talked-about trip into a reality. Here are a number of options as far as printed shirts for vacation go, from sumptuously silky, to bold and bright, to almost comically themed. (Nautical print? On a yacht ? Groundbreaking.) Prints should be fun and exciting, but just remember the cardinal rule of shopping for vacation: Be sure you’d actually wear the item when you’re at home, even if it’s just to feel like you’re on holiday.

If you’ve opened a social media app in the last six months, you’ve probably been served an ad for knit polos—alternately called “sweater polos,” given that they can feel as soft as your favorite merino wool or cashmere sweater. It must have something to do with a wave of celebs casually hitting the red carpet in one of these bad boys—and it’s easy to see why. There’s something delightfully mid-century classic about the look of a knitted polo, and the texture of the knit lends a touch of dashing elegance to your outfit while being comfy enough for a long day walking around sunny Rome or waiting in line for Broadway rush tickets in New York’s Times Square . Pack a long-sleeve variation if you’re going to any relaxing body of water; it’ll be perfect for those chilly beachside or lakeside evenings.

It may seem incredibly basic to put a, well, basic like this on a list of the best vacation shirts for men, but who’s going to argue that a classic white T-shirt doesn’t belong in anyone’s suitcase? It’s perfect for travel days , workouts at the hotel gym , and even underneath a suit jacket, if the setting is casual enough. ( GQ can fight me on this; white shirts and suits still work!) Plus, it can be extremely easy to clean at a laundromat—or the sink—for longer trips. Depending on what kind of tee you’re looking for, a good ol’ three-pack from Hanes might do the trick, but there’s a wide world of white T-shirts out there for everyone, from cotton-linen blends to pocket tees to crewnecks made entirely of cashmere. OK, maybe don’t toss that last one into the spin cycle.

Good activewear is like mana from heaven for travelers. They’re great for coffee runs or training sessions, hitting the rides at Disney parks , or even hiking in national and state parks . These athleisure tops are well suited to days of high-performance activity (sweat-wicking, odor-resistant), while also refined enough that they can take you from the trail in the morning to brunch and cocktails at noon. Bonus: This kind of gear is perfect for travel days, too. You’ll be comfortable for long plane rides while looking put-together enough that someone might see you and decide you’re their airport crush for the trip. (Yes, it’s a thing .)

Looking for more summer packing list inspiration?

• The perfect summer capsule wardrobe for travelers
• What to pack for hot and humid destinations
• The best men's swim trunks
• The best men's loungewear sets for travel

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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The best travel clothes | guide to high-performance & fashionable travel clothing.

We talk about our favorite travel clothing and help you find the perfect travel-friendly clothes to keep you comfortable on the road.

I’ve been a nerd about travel clothes since my first trip to Europe back in 2006—now I have a closet full of travel pants and shirts and jackets (you get the idea). It’s been refreshing to watch travel clothing evolve from hideous outdoorsy gear to stylish clothing made from high-tech fabrics.

In this guide, I’ve gathered some of the most popular travel clothing brands to help you find the best travel clothing so you can stay fashionable and comfortable while traveling.

The Current State Of Travel Clothes

In the old days, travel clothing used to look like this…

But now travel clothing looks like this!

So what’s the deal with travel clothes these days?

I’d argue that the “travel clothing” market hasn’t changed much but the “performance clothing” market is actually what’s pushing the category forward—so these days, I consider travel clothing and performance clothing essentially the same thing.

And it makes sense because many of these new high-performance fabrics offer a ton of benefits that complement both everyday wear and travel.

Even mega-brands like Levis, Gap, Dockers, Lululemon, and Uniqlo are starting to offer fashionable “travel-friendly” or “performance” clothing but small niche brands are pushing the boundaries (which I’ll cover later in this article).

The Good Things About Travel Clothing

Travel clothes are finally being designed to be fashionable and stylish so you can easily wear them in Paris, Milan, or New York without looking out of place.

My #1 travel clothing rule is that I’ll never wear any “travel clothing” that I wouldn’t wear in my everyday life.

Second, high-tech clothes continue to evolve because more companies are developing better fabrics and competition is driving innovation.

The Bad Things About Travel Clothing

Unfortunately, high-tech travel clothing tends to be expensive.

First, many of the fabrics used are high-end so the raw materials are expensive. Second, a majority of travel clothing is made by small companies so they can’t mass produce their products—which pushes prices higher.

Another negative thing about travel clothing is that there are many options for men but fewer for women. This is probably because guys tend to stick to very basic items and they nerd out on “high-tech fabrics more than women.

So what can you expect to pay for travel clothes?

• Nice merino wool socks will be $10-$20/pair
• A pair of travel pants will range from $70-$180+
• A wool shirt will be $50-$100+

Do You NEED Travel Clothing?

Do you really “need” to shell out your hard-earned cash for these high-end garments?

I’ll be the first to say that you certainly don’t need clothes made out of technical fabrics when you travel. Many of these fabrics can make certain aspects of traveling easier and more comfortable… but they’re more of a “nice-to-have” than a “must-have.”

In my opinion, there are a few key pieces that I think deliver a ton of value and there are other items that are more optional — I’ll cover both throughout this article.

The Benefits of Travel Clothes & Performance Wear

What’s so great about travel clothing? Let’s take a look…

Durability & Multi-Day Wear

One of the main benefits of travel clothing is that you can wear them multiple times without having to wash them. This means you can pack fewer items so you can travel lighter.

Odor-Resistance

Many of the fabrics used in travel clothes have anti-odor properties. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant but some synthetic materials are manufactured in a way to reduce odor.

Quick-Drying Abilities

If you plan on washing your clothes while you’re traveling it’s nice to have items that can be hand-washed and air-dried quickly (i.e. washing your socks and underwear in the sink). Quick-drying fabrics can also be beneficial if you get caught in the rain.

Wrinkle-Resistance

While it’s hard to completely prevent wrinkles when you’re living out of a suitcase, many materials have anti-wrinkle properties. In general, synthetic materials resist wrinkles better than natural fabrics but it depends on the fabric.

Lightweight & Packability

Performance fabric tends to be lightweight so it won’t weigh down your luggage as much — for example, a pair of tech pants will weigh half as much as a pair of jeans. Lightweight fabric also tends to dry quicker than something like cotton jeans which absorb water.

Moisture Wicking & Breathability

One of the most important factors in keeping comfortable is keeping dry. Moisture-wicking fabric helps pull sweat away from your skin and its breathability lets the moisture escape from the fabric.

Stretch and Comfort

Every fabric will have a different amount of stretch. Unsurprisingly, fabric with more stretch tends to be more comfortable since it allows you to move with less restriction.

But you’re always making a compromise when it comes to stretch because, in general, you sacrifice durability/water-repellency for stretchability.

Water Repellency

Certain fabrics are naturally water-repellent and others have chemical coatings which help keep water from soaking into the fabric. In my opinion, water repellency isn’t super high up on my “must-have” list (unless it’s a rain jacket) but it’s a nice bonus.

Note: The chemical water-resistant coatings aren’t permanent so they will become less effective the more the garment is washed.

High-Tech Performance Fabrics Explained

There are multiple different types of fabrics that travel clothing companies use to make their products. There is a lot of nuances and technical/marketing mumbo jumbo when it comes to each fabric but we’ll start with the three main fabric categories — natural fabrics, synthetic fabrics, and natural/synthetic blends.

Natural Fabrics

There are a handful of natural fabrics but the most common are merino wool and cotton.

Merino Wool

The best kind of natural fabric is fine merino wool because it has many natural benefits. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, soft, fairly durable, wicks moisture well, dries quickly, and works well in both hot and cold weather.

However, merino wool does have some downsides. First, it’s expensive so even a “cheap” merino wool t-shirt will cost around $50.

Second, thin wool has a tendency to develop holes much more quickly than a more robust fabric like cotton or synthetics.

And third, most wool can’t go in the dryer since heat will make it shrink so it does require a little extra care.

Cotton Should Be Avoided

Most travelers highly recommend avoiding cotton when it comes to travel clothing because cotton holds moisture and doesn’t dry quickly. For example, a cotton pair of socks will trap sweat which will cause odors, blisters, and sweaty feet.

That said, I’m not as militant when it comes to wearing cotton so I still wear cotton jeans and t-shirts. However, I still generally avoid cotton for socks and underwear.

Synthetic Fabrics

Things get a little more complicated when it comes to synthetic fabrics because there are dozens of different variations and each has different performance properties.

That said, synthetic fabrics are usually much cheaper to manufacture but some of the high-end technical fabrics are still expensive.

Synthetic fabrics are very durable, they can be highly water-repellent or even waterproof, many resist wrinkles, they dry very quickly, and they’re lightweight. Some synthetic materials also have a lot of flex so they’re comfortable to wear.

However, there are some negatives. First, synthetic fabrics can become smelly after one or two wearings. Some synthetic fabrics are treated with anti-odor chemicals so that helps.

Next, cheap synthetic fabrics have an ugly “synthetic sheen” and feel fake. Most of these cheap synthetics also make that “swish swish” sound when you walk. Advanced synthetic fabrics can look and feel very similar to natural fabrics but these fabrics are expensive — so you’ll have to pay if fashion is a concern.

Some cheap synthetics also don’t breathe well so they can get pretty balmy in the heat. That’s why you should look for “breathable” fabrics.

Another issue with synthetics is fabric flexibility. The most durable fabrics tend to not have very little flexibility. So if you’ll have to sacrifice a bit of durability for comfort in some instances.

Natural/Synthetic Blends

Travel clothing brands are starting to combine fine merino wool and synthetic fabric to give you the best of both worlds — performance and durability. I heard from someone in the wool industry that there is no performance loss as long as the blend includes at least 70% wool.

You’ll usually see blends in socks, underwear, and shirts.

The Best Travel Clothes and Recommended Travel Clothing Brands

Okay, okay… calm down. I’ve broken down each type of garment (socks, underwear, pants, shirts, etc.) into its own section.

I’ve tried giving specific recommendations when possible (and I’ll try my best to keep the recommendations up-to-date), but sometimes I can only point you towards companies that make tech-wear travel clothes.

I will also do my best to recommend options for all budgets since I know not everyone wants to drop $100 on a t-shirt.

Socks for Travel

In my opinion, a few nice pairs of socks (along with comfortable shoes) are the most important travel accessory. So, if you have a limited clothing budget, spend it on socks.

Boring, I know… but it will be your best bang for the buck

Fine merino wool socks are my favorite and preferred style of socks. Merino wool socks with a bit of synthetic material also work well because the synthetic fibers help the socks keep their shape/fit.

From my experience, 100% synthetic socks aren’t great but they’re not terrible.

Avoid cotton socks if you can.

Obviously, you’ll want to match your socks to the season — i.e. thin, no-show socks for the summer and longer/heavier socks for colder weather.

My Favorite Sock Brands:

• Smartwool : The most famous wool sock company. They offer just about every style. Check Amazon to see what’s available.
• Darn Tough Vermont : Darn Tough socks are made in the USA and they offer a lifetime warranty so that’s awesome. Check Amazon to see what’s available.
• Unbound Merino : This small company makes merino wool basics but we really dig their all-season ankle socks. They don’t contain as much wool as we’d like but this helps keep the cost down. Check them out at Unbound .
• Farm To Feet : This is another 100% USA company that makes a small but quality range of wool socks. Take a look at Amazon to see their offerings.
• Wigwam : Wigwam makes both merino wool and synthetic socks. While they’re not our favorite socks, their prices are pretty good so they’re worth checking out if you’re looking to save a little money. Check Amazon .

Travel Underwear

Ahh, yes. Travel underwear.

I’ve already written at length about the many benefits of travel underwear , but I’ll briefly cover them again below:

• Quick Drying: Wash them in the sink and they’ll be dry by morning.
• Moisture Wicking : This helps keep your skin dry.
• Breathable: This helps stop you from getting all sweaty down there.
• Odor Blocking: Stop the stink (or at least delay it)
• Comfortable: You don’t want to spend your time thinking about your uncomfortable underwear.

Synthetic Underwear

Most travel underwear is made from synthetic fabric which is designed to be soft, lightweight, and breathable. It isn’t the best at controlling odor since some synthetic material holds in odor but many brands have various manufacturing processes that help combat odor.

The most popular travel underwear is made by ExOfficio (you can read our Exofficio review but these guys essentially invented travel underwear). We tend to find the best prices on Amazon and REI .

Patagonia (i.e. everyone’s favorite outdoors brand) has a handful of nice underwear options for both men and women.

Another very popular option is Under Armour underwear . They get a ton of great reviews on Amazon , many people swear by them, and they’re sometimes cheaper than ExOfficio.

For budget travelers, Uniqlo has their Airism line of underwear which isn’t bad but I’m not a huge fan of their cuts. But they’re very affordable so they’re worth looking at.

If you’re on a tight budget, you should check out Target and discount stores like T.J. Maxx or Marshalls because you can find “athletic” underwear for decent prices.

 Merino Wool Underwear

Merino wool is actually a very solid choice for underwear — even in the summer. It’s soft, it’s lightweight, it breathes well, and it’s the best option for resisting odor. The two main downsides are the high prices and durability.

There are a few different brands that sell quality merino wool underwear:

• Allbirds : Allbirds (the company famous for their merino wool shoes) also makes quality underwear and socks for both men and women. Check them out at Allbirds .
• Wool & Prince: This is our current “go-to” brand when it comes to anything merino wool. They currently only offer men’s underwear. Check them out on Wool & Prince .
• Icebreaker: Another popular wool brand is Icebreaker and they make everything from underwear to coats. Browse their selection on Amazon to find a cut that fits your style.

The Best Travel Pants and Jeans For Men

The number of companies making travel-friendly pants and jeans has exploded over the past few years. It’s actually kind of overwhelming but I’ll help you sort it all out.

And don’t worry — all the pants we recommend are actually fashionable so you won’t be looking like a mountain climber while city hopping.

The main thing to remember is that each of the pants on this list has different performance properties so that’s something you’ll want to match the performance to your needs.

Bluffworks Ascender Chinos

Bluffworks, which makes a range of travel garments, recently released their new Ascender Chinos . These are made with lightweight high-performance fabric. The polyester twill fabric has a nice amount of stretch and it has a minimal amount of “synthetic sheen”. The fabric is lightweight so it breaths well, resists wrinkles, and has water-resistant properties.

It’s also nice that these come in both a regular and tailored fit. I own the tailored fit but it certainly isn’t constricting.

The Ascender Chinos have multiple security features like multiple secret zipper pockets to keep all your stuff safe (so you can throw away that terrible money belt).

The Ascender Chinos sell for $125 via Bluffworks

Bluffworks Departure Jeans

There are a lot of people who think jeans make a terrible choice when it comes to travel pants… and they kind of are (they take forever to dry, they’re heavy, and can be hot). But I love traveling in jeans.

Well, Bluffworks helped address many of the “negative” things about denim with their Departure Jeans. These are made from 68% Cotton, 22% COOLMAX Polyester, 9% Rayon, and 1% Spandex so they are super stretchy and much more lightweight than normal denim.

And they included two cleverly designed hidden pockets that don’t interfere with the normal pockets.

But I’ve saved the best for last… these look like normal jeans and they’re legit comfortable. I wear them even when I’m not traveling and that’s about as good an endorsement as I can give.

The Bluffworks Departure Travel Jeans retail for $98

Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants

Western Rise is a small performance apparel company from Telluride, Colorado that wanted to make clothing that performed well on the trails but still looked good in town. We think the AT Slim Rivet Pants do a really nice job of walking this balance.

The AT Slim Rivet Pants look very similar to standard five-pocket pants. The fabric is durable yet fairly lightweight and breathable (97% nylon, 3% spandex). Western Rise describes the fabric as “air-texturized fibers” so while it is nylon, the fabric has a cotton feel so there really isn’t any of that synthetic fabric sheen (but it does make a swishy noise).

The fabric also has a DWR coating to help repel water in case you get stuck in the rain or spill beer all over yourself. Additionally, there is a hidden zippered pocket for security.

As for the looks, these come in a slim but not skinny cut. They look like normal pants — which is a top priority. I wear my mine even when I’m not traveling.

The Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants retails for $128.

Outlier Slim Dungarees

Outlier designed their Slim Dungarees as a “five-pocket pant that we could travel the world in” and they’ve found their way on many of our trips to Europe. These have a great look and I think they’re some of the best-looking/most stylish travel pants. unfortunately, they’re also some of the most expensive so that’s something to keep in mind.

The Workcloth Doubleweave Canvas is both soft and lightweight yet very durable. The fabric has a nice amount of stretch and it dries very quickly. It also has a self-cleaning” NanoSphere® treatment that helps it repel water, coffee, wine, and dirt.

The Outlier Slim Dungarees sell for $198

Prana Brion Pants

PrAna is a well-established outdoorsy company so most of their stuff is better suited for things like hiking and rock climbing. That said, their Brion Pant  is one of their best-sellers thanks to its fairly modern cut and the fact that they look similar to jeans/chinos.

These are constructed from their durable and quick-drying ‘Zion’ fabric that’s actually stretchy (4-way stretch) so provides a good amount of movement. It’s also coated in a water-repellent (DWR) coating so it will withstand a little water.

So, these might not win any awards for fashion, they’re a solid choice at a solid price.

The  PrAna Brion Pant  retails for $79 via  PrAna .

Everlane Performance Chinos

Everlane recently released their Performance Chinos which I’m also really digging. I own a pair so I can attest that these are very comfortable and they’re probably the most stylish pants on this list.

That said, their Performance Chinos are made from 94% Cotton, 6% Elastane so these are the least “technical” pants on this list as well. But I still think these are a nice option if you’re more concerned about comfort than technical features.

The Everlane Performance Chinos cost $68 and come in four colors.

Ministry Of Supply Kinetic Dress Pants

If you’re looking for a formal/dressy look, but still want a ton of comfort, then look no further than Ministry of Supply Kinetic Pants . These have been described as “dress pants with the feel of sweatpants”.

The Kinetic Pants are made from Japanese Primeflex polyester that has a ton of stretch, resists wrinkles, wicks moisture, and repels water.

The Ministry of Supply Kinetic Pants sell for $145

Travel Pants & Jeans For Women

As we mentioned before, there is a lack of travel pants for women but we’ve tried to find some of the best of the limited choices that are available. One thing to note is that most women’s travel pants tend to focus more on comfort than “technical” fabrics.

Ministry of Supply

Of all the travel clothing brands, Ministry of Supply makes some of the most fashionable and best-performing clothes. Their stuff certainly isn’t cheap but the prices aren’t totally outrageous either.

Their flagship travel pants are their Slim Kinetic Pants which get rave reviews for looks, comfort, and performance. And they can be machine-washed and tumble-dried.

The Slim Kinetic Pants sell for $145.

Anatomie is a high-end women’s travel clothing company that’s one of the few brands which puts a heavy focus on fashion. Most of their travel-friendly pants are expensive at $225+/pair but they have a ton of different styles and cuts for just about every body type.

Check out Anatomie to see their travel pants and other travel garments (shirts, shorts, dresses, jackets, etc.).

Prana Travel Pants

PrAna is one of the few companies that make women’s pants made out of legit technical fabrics. Most of their stuff falls into the “ugly hiking pants” category but they have a few different styles of pants and jeans that are actually cute. And most of their pants are priced around $80 so they’re not crazy expensive.

Check PrAna to see all their styles.

Lululemon may be known for its yoga clothing but they’ve also branched out to more fashion-conscious athleisure wear that works fairly well as travel pants.

Check Lululemon to see the different styles they have available.

The Best Shirts For Travel

Alright, moving right along to shirts made from high-performance fabrics that actually look stylish.

Wool & Prince Tees

I practically live in t-shirts so a few solid-color tees are a staple of any travel wardrobe. While pricy, I love my Wool & Prince merino wool tees . These can be worn for multiple days and I don’t have to worry about washing them.

They have both 100% wool tees and 78% / 22% merino nylon blends. I recommend the blend since it’s cheaper, more durable, and requires less care when washing.

The Wool & Prince Tees sell from $68-$78

Bluffworks Meridian Dress Shirt

If you’re looking for a sharp-looking yet no-fuss button up then look at the Meridian Dress Shirt from Bluffworks. It’s made from 98% polyester and 2% spandex so it won’t wrinkle and the fabric will dry very quickly. The fabric can take a beating and there aren’t any special care instructions. We also like how it comes in both a classic and slim fit.

The Bluffworks Meridian Dress Shirt sells for $98

Bluffworks Piton Polo

I’ve only had my Bluffworks Piton Polo for about a month but I’m already seeing why this is an excellent travel shirt. First, it looks great and I love how it comes in a classic and slim fit. Next, the breathable pique knit is breathable and it only has a very slightly noticeable synthetic look even though it’s 100% polyester. And like all Bluffworks clothing, the fabric is tough, wrinkle-resistant, and doesn’t require any special care.

The Bluffworks Piton Polo sells for $68

Wool & Prince Polo

My Wool & Prince Polo always finds itself in my backpack. I love the cut and the quality is top-notch. It’s a nice “dressier” change from a t-shirt while still being casual. And you get all the benefits from merino wool fabric.

Wool & Prince offers has two types of polos — a 100% merino wool version and a 78% merino wool, 22% nylon blend. I own the blend version and I love it.

The Wool & Prince Polo sells for $78-$98.

Bluffworks Threshold Performance T-Shirt

You might be seeing a pattern here… but Bluffworks is back with their Threshold Performance T-Shirt. This ultra-lightweight t-shirt is made from a blend of 66% Polyester, 29% Lyocell, and 5% Elastane so it has a ton of stretch, wicks moisture well, and is very breathable. The fabric is thin (which is why it’s airy/breathable) so if you like a little more heft to your shirts then you might want to look elsewhere.

The Bluffworks Threshold Performance T-Shirt sells for $45

Wool & Prince Button-Ups

Wool & Price has a number of both short-sleeved and long-sleeve button-up shirts made from merino wool. I own one of their button-down oxford shirts and the fabric is very sturdy — I’d say it makes a nice choice for cooler weather as I can see it getting a little warm in the hot weather.

They also have a new wool/linen blend which will be more airy and breathable so these look great for warmer weather (I’ll be testing these once they get back in stock).

The Wool and Prince Button-Up Shirts sell for $98-$138

Outlier Merino T-Shirt

Outlier is another high-end brand that makes excellent products and one of my favorite items is their Ultrafine Merino T-shirt. It’s made from 17.5, 195gsm Merino Jersey Wool so the fabric is sturdy and drapes a bit better than many other merino t-shirts. And it comes in a lot of nice colors. But like all other Outlier products, the ultra-high-quality comes at a very high price.

The Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-shirt costs $110 each or three for $295.

Unbound Merino Wool T-Shirt

Unbound is another small company offering 100% ultra-fine 17.5 microns, 190g Merino wool shirts at affordable prices. I own a few of their shirts and while their shirts might not be quite as nice as other 100% merino shirts on our list, the price is a bit cheaper.

The Unbound Merino Wool T-Shirt sells for $65

Uniqlo Airism Shirts

When it comes to budget basics, it’s impossible to beat Uniqlo’s Airism line of shirts. We own a few different Airism items and they’re not terrible but they certainly aren’t nearly as nice or perform as well as the other items on this list — but they’re cheap.

Check Uniqlo to see what they have because always changing their stock.

Women’s Travel Shirts

Ok, here’s the deal… there aren’t a ton of “performance” shirts for women that aren’t ugly. But here are a few decent items we’ve found:

• Bluffworks Womens : Bluffworks has recently released a line of women’s travel clothing that looks very promising.
• Ministry of Supply is a great choice for high-performance clothing that still looks fashionable. And while their prices aren’t cheap, we consider them very reasonable. They also have nice dresses and other items.
• Unbound Merino has a black v-neck 100% merino shirt in a women’s cut for $65.
• Anatomie has a number of high-end cute tops made from travel-friendly fabrics but they’re expensive.
• Lululemon has some decent options but many of their items lean heavily into athleisure.

Cold Weather Travel Clothing

Most of the items on this list will work well in colder weather but you’ll want to pair them with other items to achieve maximum warmth. The key is layering—which basically means combining a few lighter layers to achieve warmth without the bulk.

Base Layers

A base layer is technically anything that is worn directly on your skin. Socks and underwear fall into this category but it also includes items like shirts, undershirts, and long underwear.

In the winter we’ll throw on long-sleeve merino wool or synthetic long underwear and this helps keep us warm and dry when we’re outside all day.

For the best selection, I recommend checking out REI as they carry all the major long underwear brands. If you’re trying to save a little money, check out Uniqlo’s  HeatTech  line of long underwear since it is cheap.

A mid-layer is anything that is worn between your base layer and your outer layer. Its main purpose is insulation and it can be a sweater, vest, down jacket, hoodie, or just about anything. Sometimes the mid-layer can act as an outer layer if the weather isn’t too cold.

When it comes to tech-wear, the main pieces are Merino wool sweaters/jackets, fleece jackets, and down (or a synthetic variation) jackets. The piece just needs to allow internal moisture (sweat) to evaporate through the fabric. It’s also nice if the piece is lightweight and durable.

Fleece is always a popular choice because it provides a good amount of warmth, durability, and breathability without being too bulky. There is also a variation of fleece called hard fleece — which is basically a fleece with a smoother and more durable exterior. Most hard fleece garments are also more water-resistant than normal fleece.

There are hundreds of fleece jackets available on the market at all price points, so we’d check out the selection at REI and buy whatever fits your budget.

Another popular choice is down jackets — although a lot of companies now use synthetic down ( Primaloft , Coreloft, etc.) and many people prefer synthetic material to natural down. Synthetic down is incredibly lightweight, compressible, breathable, and it retains warmth even when wet.

It is crazy how compressible natural and synthetic down jackets are — some can compress to the size of a shoe. When compared to a fleece jacket, a synthetic down jacket is more water-resistant , wind resistant, packable, and lighter. 

Nearly every outdoor brand makes lightweight down/synthetic down jackets. One of the most popular and fashionable brands is Patagonia — check out both Amazon and REI for the best selection. The  Patagonia Nano Puff jacket is probably the most popular lightweight puff jacket on the market so it’s no wonder it’s a favorite among experienced travelers (it’s what we use).

Outerwear is generally the final layer and it is what protects you from the elements (wind, rain, snow, etc.). The problem with outerwear is that it encompasses a huge range of garments that perform a huge range of functions. It can be anything from a simple waterproof jacket for summer showers, to large winter coats capable of withstanding a harsh Scandinavian winter.

I’ll start off by diving into  waterproof jackets since that is probably what most people are interested in learning about.

Most traditional waterproof jackets are called hard shells . These are 100% waterproof and they have that plastic-y feel and sound. If you want the ultimate protection from the elements, this is your choice.

However, being impermeable to the elements means that the material doesn’t breathe — this is less than ideal because it doesn’t allow your body’s sweat to evaporate. Basically, it traps moisture and makes you feel all clammy.

Some high-end hardshell jackets have breathable fabric, but even those aren’t as breathable as softshells (which we’ll talk about later).

Unsurprisingly, most waterproof jackets are made by outdoor companies, so trying to find a stylish one isn’t super easy. However, there are plenty of decent-looking options by Marmot, Patagonia, and The North Face.

However, in the summer I generally recommend that a traditional rain jacket is unnecessary — mainly because it doesn’t rain a lot and most jackets are too heavy for summer travel.

However, Ultralight Rain Jackets are super lightweight (they only weigh a few ounces) and they can be packed into a pocket, so they’re easy to carry around in a daypack. Ultralight rain jackets won’t have very good breathability, but you’ll only be wearing them in the rain, so it isn’t a huge issue.

The best ultralight rain jackets are the  Outdoor Research Helium II , Marmot Super Mica , and the  Montane Minimus  (they all weigh under 10 oz).

When it comes to breathability, it doesn’t get any better than a softshell jacket. Softshell jackets aren’t technically 100% waterproof, but they’re essentially waterproof. They’re well-suited for urban travel because they’re more comfortable than a hard shell and they’re more stylish.

Again, there are hundreds of softshell jackets, so I recommend visiting REI (click here for Men’s and Women’s ) to see which ones fit your budget and style preference.

Heavy Coats

If you’re traveling during the winter, you may consider bringing a heavy winter coat . In some instances, you may be completely comfortable by layering a base layer, a few mid-layers, and an outer layer. But, sometimes, you need a heavy coat — especially if you’re traveling to Northern or Eastern Europe in the dead of winter.

Puffy down coats provide an amazing warmth-to-weight ratio — which is always something to consider when traveling. Combine that down coat with a base layer and a warm mid-layer, and you’ll be staying toasty. Natural down is the warmest, but it becomes ineffective if it gets wet.

On the other hand, synthetic down isn’t quite as warm, but it still works if it gets wet and it dries quicker. Different coats have different amounts of water-repellant, so this is something to take into consideration.

For the best selection of insulated coats , I recommend checking out REI  simply because they have the best selection. Look for one that fits your personal style.

If you’re looking for the ultimate protection from the elements, you’ll want a standard waterproof, winter coat. A lot of coats have a 3-in-1 system that contains a waterproof outer shell and an interior insulated lining. Again, REI is a good place to start your search because they have the best selection.

More Travel Gear Recommendations from The Savvy Backpacker

Here are some more helpful “best of” travel gear guides that we think you’ll find helpful!

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Best Carry-On Backpacks
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Best Waterproof Boots for Women
• Recent Posts
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024

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What type of shirt is best for heat? 🥼11 Best Travel Shirts For Hot Weather For Men And Women

What type of shirt is best for heat? Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen or moisture-wicking materials for the best heat-resistant shirts.

Wearing appropriate attire becomes essential as the temperature rises, especially for frequent travelers. We explore the world of the best travel shirts for hot weather in this guide, offering both fashion and practicality.

Exploring the essential characteristics that make a travel shirt perfect for hot weather . From moisture-wicking technology to UPF sun protection, we’ll delve into why these features matter for your comfort and well-being during your travels.

Understanding why investing in the right travel shirt is crucial. We’ll discuss the impact on your overall experience, from avoiding discomfort to enhancing your enjoyment of the journey.

We’ll explore the key features, types of fabrics, how to choose the perfect fit, and highlight the best travel shirts for hot weather from leading brands.

🧐 Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Travel Shirts For Hot Weather [Buying Guide]

• 1. Women's Classic Long Sleeve Roll Tab Button Down Shirt By Tommy Hilfiger

2. Polo Shirts For Travel

3. tasc carrollton long sleeve .

• 4. Women's Tech Stretch Long-Sleeve T-Shirt By Amazon Essentials
• 5. Men's Classic Button-Down By U.S. Polo Assn

6. Hightide Long Sleeve Swim Shirt By Coolibar 

7. short-sleeve v-neck t-shirt by alternative.

• 8. Men's PFG Zero Rules Long Sleeve Shirt By Columbia
• 9. Men's Long Sleeve Shirt By Columbia 
• 10. Women's Short Sleeve Tee Tops Cotton T-Shirts Blouses 
• 11. Columbia Men's PFG Bahama II UPF 30 Short-Sleeve Fishing Shirt

✅ Key Features of the Best Travel Shirts

B. polyester, c. merino wool, q. what is the best shirt to wear in hot weather, q. what fabric is best for hot humid weather, q. what colour is best for hot weather, q. is it better to wear shorts or pants in the heat, q. are oxford shirts good for summer, q. what is the best shirt material for extreme heat, q. what is the best top for hot weather, q. what to wear when flying in a hot climate, q. are travel shirts with uv protection necessary, 😇 conclusion, 🗨️ tell us in the comments your favourite travel shirts for hot weather..

Traveling is a relaxing activity, so the shirt that we will wear on the trip should be comfortable .

We also need to pay attention to a few points before buying clothes for travel . comfortable clothes will enhance your enjoyment on the trip.

• Price : Does the price of the shirt justify the quality? We recommend trying to buy more cheap shirts because in today’s life we are all photo addicts, so after doing that, you will have photos on various shirts.
• Does it work in a variety of situations?  Exploring what a city offers is part of the joy of traveling. Your travel shirts must fit in several situations, from treks and temples to restaurants and nightlife. Always bring sensible clothing that you can wear to religious sites or while visiting fewer tourist areas.
• Is it multi-purpose? Can I use it on several occasions? Every shirt in your bag should serve more than one purpose. A travel shirt doesn’t need to serve multiple purposes because we all want to carry clothes as little as possible to keep our luggage light.
• Is it light in weight? Roll up a shirt before purchasing it or select one from your closet to see how much space it needs. Consider bringing more lightweight clothes if it’s very bulky.
• Fast dry: Will this take a long time to dry? Quick-drying fabrics of shirts are advantageous because they appear to pack lighter and are often easier to wash while you’re always on the go.
• Is it compatible with the other pairs of travel clothing you have chosen? With limited wardrobe choices, it’s important to maximize your travel wardrobe. Choose each cloth with consideration, and dress for interchangeable clothing. Determine if your clothes can be mixed and matched, and experiment with the various combinations that can be created with your choices.
• Consideration for different body types: Providing insights into choosing the right travel shirt based on body types. Whether you’re petite or plus-sized, find tips for a comfortable and flattering fit.
• Importance of trying before buying: Highlighting the significance of trying on travel shirts before making a purchase. Learn why this step is crucial for finding the perfect fit.

• Rapid-dry, interlock jersey knit wicks away…
• 50+ upf rating for excellent uv protection
• More tailored, contemporary fit
• Tag-free neck for comfort

• Temp iq intelligent cooling for advance…
• Wicking technology to move moisture away from the…
• Raglan sleeves for improved mobility
• Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating system…

• ACTIVE CREW T-SHIRTS: Elevate your workout gear…
• ATHLETIC STYLE: Look and feel great in the gym…
• WORKOUT TRANSFORMER: Say goodbye to sweaty…
• WORKOUT WITH FREE MOTION: Enjoy a non-restrictive…

Last update on 2024-04-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

📃 A List Of The 11 Best Travel Shirts For Hot Weather

After a lot of research, we have selected the below travel shirts that will provide you with an amazing experience during your trip .

1. Women’s Classic Long Sleeve Roll Tab Button Down Shirt By Tommy Hilfiger

It’s difficult to find a women’s button-down that doesn’t gape at the buttons, let alone one that doesn’t wrinkle and is genuinely comfortable. It is one of the best long sleeve shirts for hot weather

The Button-Down Shirt from Tommy Hilfige r magically fulfills all of those requirements, with plenty of pockets thrown in for good measure. It is also one of the best breathable long-sleeved shirts for hot weather.

• Quality comfort: Lightweight cotton button-up…
• Classic design: Styled like our classic Tommy…
• Versatile styling: These classic button-down…
• Year-round luxury: Wear these cotton shirts alone…

Last update on 2024-05-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also Read: 12 Best Crossbody Bags For Travel

Polo is as casual as a T-shirt but has a more elegant appearance, allowing you to wear it from a meeting to drinks afterward. This business casual polo shirt can be used for offices as well as for casual outings.

This ultra-soft top, made of a combination of Pima cotton, TENCEL, and spandex, packs quickly, feels great, looks great, and stands out as one of the best travel shirts. It is one of the best travel shirts for hot weather for men. 

• REGULAR FIT: Comfortable, easy fit through the…
• PERFORMANCE FABRIC: This lightweight, breathable…
• GOLF POLO: This short sleeve golf polo is not just…
• DETAILS: Flat knit rib trim at collar, contrast…

Also Read: Top 9 Trends In Little Black Travel Dresses To Watch

TASC’s Carrollton Long Sleeve Shirt is made of a bamboo/cotton/spandex blend that wicks away moisture, removes odors, protects you from the light, and is ultra-breathable—plus it’s incredibly comfortable.

This shirt’s simple crew neck design makes it suitable for workouts and sightseeing without appearing out of place.

• Moisture wicking
• UPF 50+ protection
• No top shoulder seam
• Extreme comfort

Also Read: 15 Best Amazon Fanny Packs  For Travel That Is Perfect To Carry Items For Easy Access

4. Women’s Tech Stretch Long-Sleeve T-Shirt By Amazon Essentials

The Tech Stretch Long-Sleeve T-Shirt from Amazon is ideal for an active ride. The shirt is made of a trademarked Buttah LT fabric with StinkStopper treatment that feels buttery smooth and resists odors even after repeated workouts without washing.

This shirt can be worn outside of the gym thanks to features like a ruched back and a space-dye pattern. Also one of the long sleeve shirts for hot weather women .

• RELAXED FIT: Relaxed, comfortable fit through the…
• TECH STRETCH FABRIC: An ultra-light weight and…
• ACTIVE LONG SLEEVE TOP: Train in confidence with…
• DETAILS: Featuring a classic crew neck.

Also Read: 15 Best Leggings For Travel

5. Men’s Classic Button-Down By U.S. Polo Assn

U.S. Polo’s Classic Button-Down beats a conventional button-down on many counts: It’s short enough to be worn tucked or untucked without looking weird.

It’s made of an odour-resistant and breathable merino wool/organic cotton mix, and it’s fast-drying so you can wash and re-wear it on a long ride. It is the best shirt for hot weather.

• Button down collar
• Single patch pocket with embroidered logo
• Shirt tail hem
• Classic fit

Also Read: 13 Best Lightweight Warm Jackets For Travel (For Women And Men)

With Coolibar’s Hightide Swim Shirt, you can protect yourself from the sun without overheating in long sleeves. This shirt is designed to be worn in the water and provides a UPF 50+ cover.

It won’t float up when swimming and won’t fade from chlorine or saltwater. When you need to protect yourself from the sun on dry ground, this lightweight and silky-feeling shirt can be worn out of the water as well. Also, it’s among the best travel shirts for hot weather for women.

• UPF 50+ – blocks 98% of UVA/UVB rays
• FABRIC: Aqua Classic is a technically elegant,…
• FEATURES: Gripper elastic on back hem, flatlock…
• RECOMMENDED FOR: swimming and water sports like…

Must Read: 11 Best Travel Scarves For Men And Women

The Everyday V-Neck from Alternative Apparel is not only soft but also eco-friendly. The Lenzing fabric used to produce this travel shirt is made from a renewable cellulose fiber derived from beechwood pulp, making it twice as soft as normal cotton.

• Short-sleeve T-shirt with V-neckline

Also Read: Travel Essentials For Women | What To Bring On Your Next Trip?

8. Men’s PFG Zero Rules Long Sleeve Shirt By Columbia

Have you ever wished for your air conditioner or breathable shirts for hot weather? The PFG Zero Rules shirt from Columbia comes close to accomplishing that goal.

This lightweight clothing for hot weather is perfect for almost all body types. Moreover, this long-sleeved travel shirt helps to cool you down.

Omni-Wick wicks sweat and moisture away from your body, keeping you dry, while Omni-Shade protects you from UV rays and heat. 

• DVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Columbia Men’s PFG Zero Rules…
• FABRIC: This long sleeve shirt features a 100%…
• SIGNATURE LOGO: Our signature Columbia logo is…
• CLASSIC FIT: This long sleeve shirt features a…

9. Men’s Long Sleeve Shirt By Columbia 

Long sleeves can seem like the last thing you want to wear on a hot day, but some of the best travel shirts with long sleeves will keep you cooler than short sleeves while still protecting your forearms from sunburn.

Columbia’s Tropicwear shirt has a proprietary SunSmart cover to keep you protected from the sun’s harmful rays. The fabric is also wrinkle-free , so you won’t have to think about ironing the shirt before packing it. It is among the best hot weather shirts.

• Sun protection: Columbia men’s pfg Bahama ii long…
• Handy features: this long sleeve fishing shirt…
• Comfort & breathability: hidden vents at the…
• Relaxed fit: a relaxed, lightweight fit make this…

Also Read: 11 Best Lightweight Boots And Shoes For Travel

10. Women’s Short Sleeve Tee Tops Cotton T-Shirts Blouses 

All other T-shirts should be modeled after this Short Sleeve Tee Tops Cotton : a lightweight, breathable fabric that is moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and soft.

It also features anti-odour technology to keep odors at bay. The new style is just the right amount of fashion while keeping class.

This shirt is the best travel clothing for hot, humid weather. It is the perfect breathable shirt for hot weather.

• ❤ Fits all kinds of figures and you will feel…
• ❤ Good for daily wear, Works great with under…
• ❤ A basic tops and chic tees for women, goes…
• ❤ Size: S-2XL are available. Please read the…

11. Columbia Men’s PFG Bahama II UPF 30 Short-Sleeve Fishing Shirt

The Columbia Men’s PFG Bahama II Short Sleeve fishing shirt is made of our unique UPF 30 fabric, which filters UVA and UVB rays and helps to prevent sunburns and skin damage when spent in the sun for long periods.

Keep yourself safe and secure. Omni-Shade helps to prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage by blocking UVA and UVB radiation. UV absorbent yarns and a tight weave architecture block the entire spectrum of damaging UV radiation.

This fishing shirt’s relaxed, lightweight style makes it ideal for both casual days outside and being active on the water.

• OMNI-SHADE: UV protection at its best, Omni-Shade…
• FISH EASY: Designed specifically for anglers, this…
• BREEZY COOL: Mesh-lined back vents let in and out…
• PERFORMANCE DETAILS: A rod holder provides…
• Moisture-wicking technology: Exploring how moisture-wicking technology keeps you dry and comfortable in hot climates. Dive into the science behind this feature and its practical benefits.
• Breathability and ventilation : Unveiling the significance of breathability and ventilation in hot weather travel shirts. Learn how these features contribute to enhanced airflow and a cooler experience.
• UPF sun protection rating : Understanding the importance of UPF sun protection in travel shirts. Discover how it safeguards your skin from harmful UV rays, ensuring a worry-free adventure under the sun.
• Quick-drying fabric : Explaining the advantages of quick-drying fabric in travel shirts. From unexpected rain showers to washing on the go, discover why this feature is a game-changer.

💁 Types of Fabric for Hot Weather Travel Shirts

These are a few readily accessible materials that make nice-looking shirts for warm weather.

Delving into the breathable and lightweight qualities of linen for hot weather travel shirts. Explore the pros and cons of this classic fabric choice.

• Men’s cotton linen set is made of premium…
• Casual henley shirt feature solid color, v-neck,…
• Men’s Linen Pants design in a loose fit, solid…
• This white linen shirt and pants are great for…

Uncovering the benefits of polyester in travel shirts. From durability to moisture-wicking properties, discover why it’s a popular choice for travelers.

• Technical Tee: MIER Mens Workout Shirts are made…
• Quick-dry & Breathable: This mens dry fit T-shirts…
• V-Neck Design: V-Neck provides a nonrestrictive…
• Easy care: Polyester fabric is more durable for…

Exploring the unique properties of merino wool. Learn how it regulates body temperature, resists odors, and provides comfort in various climates.

• MIDWEIGHT – Mens Merino Base Layer Available in:…
• SUPER SOFT & COMFORTABLE – 100% Superfine 17.5…
• MOISTURE WICKING & ODOR RESISTANT – Merino base…
• EASY CARE – Washer/dryer safe. For longer…

Understanding why nylon is a go-to fabric for hot weather travel shirts. From its durability to its quick-drying nature, explore the perks of this synthetic material.

• Nylon Seersucker
• Cargopockets

Discussing the suitability of cotton for hot weather travel shirts. While a classic choice, we’ll explore both its advantages and potential drawbacks.

• Women round neck with 5 front buttons linen long…
• This summer baggy short sleeve tunic dress has two…
• Ladies loose linen midi dress perfect for daily…
• Summer cotton linen tunic tops great for large…

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Travel Shirts For Hot Weather

People have so many queries about the best hot weather shirts for travel some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

A. The best shirt for hot weather is usually one made from materials like linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking fabric to ensure comfort and breathability.

A. Opt for fabrics like linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking blends, ideal for hot and humid weather, providing comfort and breathability.

A. Light-colored clothing, especially whites and pastels, is best for hot weather as they reflect sunlight and help keep you cool.

A. Wearing shorts is generally better in the heat as they allow for better air circulation and help cool the body compared to pants.

A. Oxford shirts can be suitable for summer but choose lighter fabrics and colors like pastels to enhance breathability and comfort in warm weather.

A. The best shirt material for extreme heat is typically moisture-wicking fabric, such as polyester or specialized blends designed to keep you cool.

A. The best top for hot weather is one made from breathable materials like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabric to enhance comfort in high temperatures.

A. Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for optimal comfort when flying in a hot climate.

A. Understand the importance of protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, especially in hot weather destinations.

Finding the best travel shirt for hot weather is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Whether you opt for Columbia, ExOfficio, Patagonia, Uniqlo, or Icebreaker, prioritize the features that align with your travel needs. With proper care and consideration, your hot-weather travel shirt can be a reliable companion on all your adventures.

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

How do I choose the right shirt for my girl trip? 👚 11 Best Girl Trip Shirt Ideas That will make you the centre of attraction

Is sun-protective clothing suitable for all skin types? ☀️ 11 Best Sun-Protective Clothing For Summer Travel: Shielding Yourself in Style

Are linen pants suitable for all body types? 👖 11 Best Linen Pants For Women: Elevate Your Style with Comfort and Elegance While Travelling

Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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Tested: The Best Men’s Polo Shirts for Every Occasion

By: Cameron Cardwell Published: Apr 24, 2024

By: Cameron Cardwell and Yoni Yardeni Published: Apr 24, 2024

Contributors

Polos are one of those menswear staples whose relevance has been proven in the face of controversy time and time again. For even despite the questionable block cuts of the ’90s, the dorky designs of the aughts, and — the worst of them all — the tech material bro culture of today, the garment remains unshakably resilient in its ability to elevate a guy’s appearance. Then again, the polo is a shirt that transcends style right from the very beginning.

All that is to say, polos might be considered ‘back’ but that’s because they never really left. On the contrary — hidden amongst the worst of the garment’s associations is a treasure trove of fashion-approved fits. From towel-like terry cloth to retro ribbed finishes to super-soft Italian silk, the polo is a shirt abound with options. As such, it can be pretty overwhelming to find the options worth your time and money. Never fret, though; as always, we’re here to help, and we’ve put together this hands-on guide to get you on your way. What follows are what we consider to be the best polo shirts for men because the style’s gotten a bit of a bad rap in recent years, and we’d like to set the record straight.

Best Polo Shirts

Best Starter Polo

Uniqlo AIRism Cotton Pique Polo Shirt

Best Performance Polo

Proof 72-Hour Merino Two-Button Polo Shirt

Best Beach-Ready Polo

Outerknown Hightide Terry Polo

Best Vintage Polo

Alex Mill Vintage Wash Polo

Best Breathable Polo

lululemon Metal Vent Tech Polo Shirt

Best Polo Overall

Ralph Lauren Soft Cotton Polo

The Bond-Approved Polo

Sunspel Riviera Polo Shirt

Article Overview

How We Tested

What to look for, polo comparison chart, polo shirt history, how to style a polo, honorable mentions, the best pants to wear this summer.

You’ve made it to another one of our Tested guides, where we get up close and personal with some of our favorite gear and apparel from brands that we trust . Our selection process is always thorough, surveying both the online and offline landscape and, of course, our personal experience as a team. This time around, we’re taking a look at the absolutely classic polo shirt.

We kick off our testing by inspecting each polo on its own, taking a look at the stitching, color, and overall build quality before putting it on. After wearing each pick, we take note of the fabric’s softness and breathability, along with how everything fits. After that, it’s time to check out the small details: does the polo come with anti-microbial properties? A shirt pocket? Was it sustainably made? These are just some of the questions we ask to make sure we cover every base. This testing allows us to really get to know the polos, and better understand what scenario/styles each pick is best for.

Measurements: I’m 6’2″ and wear a size XL shirt, so we went with an XL for each pick you see here in the guide. I do prefer a relaxed fit when it comes to polos, so I went for that if the brand offers it.

Material:  While falling victim to shrinking over time, cotton is often a higher-end material that will be found in more formal polo shirts. That said, a lot of cheaper options will use a less-expensive cotton base as well. Blended materials such as polyester-cotton will be better for the workplace or casual settings. As for performance-ready attire, you’ll find polyester and/or nylon materials, often blended with stretchy spandex and offering moisture-wicking properties.

Fit:  When finding the right size for your polo shirt, knowing if the model is true-to-size is important. That said, you should determine your own size by a few factors. For one, the hem of the shirt should fall right below the waistline, which may cause a taller wearer to go a size up. Likewise, the shirt itself should be fitted but not too tight. 

Sleeves:  As opposed to the shirt’s fit, the sleeve length will be determined by the application. The safe choice will be for the cuff to fall about halfway between your shoulder and elbow. However, for  less casual occasions , you may want to opt for longer sleeves, whereas shorter sleeves will be better for a more retro appearance.

• Quick-drying and made with a material that has a cool hand-feel
• Nice lightweight construction
• Very breathable
• Might be too basic for some

Best Starter Polo: If you want to dress for success without breaking the bank, Uniqlo’s AIRism Full Open Short-Sleeve Polo is easily your best bet. Like all of the Japanese label’s offerings, it goes big on value, combining a quick-drying cotton-polyester fabric blend with a streamlined silhouette to result in a shirt that keeps you feeling as cool as you’ll look. And with its hidden buttons, fine thread count, and seamless design, it offers a more minimalist take on the classic polo finish.

Kicking our selection off, we went with a polo shirt from UNIQLO’s AIRism lineup that uses a blend of cotton and nylon with Cool Touch and quick-drying DRY technology (something that’s super nice if you plan on getting active). The idea of the fabric is to mimic the look of cotton while giving you a more breathable experience, and I could definitely feel that. You’re getting premium shell-look buttons, and a nice medium-length cut that’s great for going tucked or untucked (bolstered by the pretty minimalist style here that goes with anything). Weight here is leaning towards lightweight, and this lightweight construction pairs perfectly with the cool fabric feel and moisture-wicking capabilities, making this the perfect summer polo (especially since there are 11 colors to choose from).

The stripped-back, pretty basic look here is great and versatile, and probably a big selling point for a lot of people, but others may prefer a more interesting look (or going with a brand that has more history in the space). 

Verdict: Designed for lightweight comfort that’s smooth and cool to the touch, this polo from UNIQLO may be basic, but that makes it the perfect versatile starting point and a great summer pick. 

Material: 57% cotton, 43% nylon Fit: Fitted Sleeves: Medium length Sizes: XXS – 3XL Manufacturing Origin: Vietnam

• Guaranteed to be odor free for 72-hours straight
• Super lightweight construction
• Natural moisture control and temperature regulation from the Merino wool
• Might be too performance-focused for some

Best Performance Polo: Let’s be honest, sometimes you just can’t get to a washing machine when you’re hiking or traveling. Other times you simply forget to do laundry before squeezing in a gym session after work. Giving you at least three days of performance with no fuss, Proof’s 72-Hour Merino Polo is constructed with a special blend of 16.5-micron Merino wool (89%) sourced from farms in New Zealand and nylon (11%) that’s both odor-resistant and moisture-wicking. Proof makes a 72-Hour T-Shirt as well, but for transitioning from the gym to the office, this Polo is your best bet.

We’ve got hands-on with a few pieces from Proof’s 72-Hour lineup (most recently in our guide to the best long-sleeve tees), and we’re always impressed with how comfortable, lightweight, and of course, odor-resistant every piece is. The label’s polo is obviously no exception, boasting the same super lightweight and soft 72-hour merino fabric (composed of micron merino wool and nylon), along with UPF 30+ sun protection to keep you safe out in the sun. The natural properties of the wool are great for moisture control and temperature regulation, which felt really nice while testing this out in the Los Angeles sun. You’re getting a slim, performance-style fit here that does stray a bit from the more classic, slightly relaxed polo fit, but it doesn’t feel too constricting, and again, the 72-hour material keeps things feeling (and smelling fresh).

As much as I love the convenience of snaps, others may prefer a more classic buttoned look when it comes to polos. That said, this is a performance polo, and it’s designed to be worn while getting active /traveling. Also, while it looks a tad sheer in the photo above, I didn’t find it to be see-through at all during testing.

Verdict: This performance polo is made to be the perfect travel companion, with a guarantee that it won’t smell even after 72 hours of unwashed wearing. On top of that, it has a clean technical look with button snaps for easy wearing. 

Material: 87% 16.5-micron merino wool, 13% nylon, 150gsm Fit: Slim Sleeves: Short length Sizes:  XS – 3XL Manufacturing Origin: China and Indonesia

• Incredibly soft terry cloth construction
• Sustainably made
• Finished with a chest pocket
• Some may want a more classic look

Best Beach-Ready Polo: Sure, Outerknown might not be the first name that comes to mind when looking for more formal attire, but the Kelly Slater surf brand is chock-full of sustainable style. For instance, its Hightide Terry Polo shirt comes crafted from a combination of organic cotton and 100% post-consumer recycled polyester, meaning that it skips out on chemicals and cuts down on plastic waste. And because it’s knit from terry cloth material, you better believe that it’ll keep you cozy in towel-like comfort that gets you ready for any weekend excursion.

Outerknown always finds a way to inject some coastal style into whatever they tackle, and the Hightide Terry Polo is no exception. Kelly Slater’s surf-inspired brand offers a Hightide lineup of clothing (we got hands-on with the Hightide Sweatpants over in our guide to the best lounge pants , and it was a personal favorite of mine) which uses a sustainable blend of 80% organic cotton and 20% recycled polyester to make a luxurious terry fabric that feels like your favorite beach towel. Seriously, this is one of the most comfortable polos in the guide here, and the perfect summer pick to complement your beach wardrobe. The fit is true to size in every sense (with a nice medium weight that’s perfect for this style), fitting exactly how a classic polo should, and it’s finished with a chest pocket for some added style and utility. 

I can’t rave enough about how comfortable and soft this polo is (I’m a huge fan of terry cloth), but I understand that this may not be for those looking to get a more classic polo. That said, I feel that the shirt strikes a solid balance between the label’s signature style and the old-school polo style. 

Verdict: Made with an incredibly soft terry cloth that feels like a beach towel, this pick from Outerknown is the perfect pick for any coastal dwellers or anyone who’s looking to get their summer wardrobe ready.

Material: 80% organic cotton, 20% recycled polyester Fit: True to size Sleeves: Short length Sizes: S – XXL Manufacturing Origin: Sri Lanka

• Vintage wash looks great
• Laid-back look bolstered by a relaxed collar
• Made with recycled cotton
• Ribbed sleeves may not be for everyone

Best Vintage Polo: There’s something about Alex Mill’s apparel that always just fits right and looks great, which is why we felt they made the perfect label to include here. For our polo guide, we went with the label’s Vintage Wash Polo, which is made with a mix of cotton and recycled yarns and finished with a beautiful vintage wash for an old-school look (along with a chest pocket).

Hailing from one of our favorite New York labels, this polo from Alex Mill takes that classic style and infuses it with a beautiful vintage wash, resulting in a polo that’s exceptionally soft with a unique faded look. It’s also made with 76% recycled cotton for a sustainable edge and finished with a chest pocket up top, ribbed sleeves, and a chunky collar. While the fit here is true to size, the relaxed drape results in a more laid-back look and feel that I really appreciate, bolstered by the relaxed collar. This is also a polo version of the label’s popular Vintage Wash Pocket Tee, so if you’re a fan of that, then you’ll definitely love this polo.

This is admittedly a super minor gripe, but ribbed sleeve cuffs aren’t for everyone, and it would be nice to have an option that’s similar to the OG Vintage Wash Pocket Tee that doesn’t have ribbed cuffs. 

Verdict: Vintage-washed and made with a mix of cotton and recycled yarns, Alex Mill comes through with a refined yet relaxed polo that’s tastefully washed out and supremely soft.

Material: 74% recycled cotton, 26% cotton Fit: True to size Sleeves: Medium length Sizes: XS – XXL Manufacturing Origin:  China

• Silverscent technology prevents growth of odor-causing bacteria
• Seamless design to prevent chafing
• Made for golfing
• Slim fit may call for a size up

Best Breathable Polo: lululemon’s Metal Vent Tech tee is arguably already the most prominent piece in its catalog, boasting a seamless, chafe-free construction that is as beneficial for days at the gym as it is for tepid trips to the office. The athleisure giant recently updated its ever-popular piece to have extra roominess in the chest area for an even more relaxed fit when you need it most. Giving the polo additional versatility, the meshed nylon and polyester construction will make sure that your skin can still breathe even when your workout heats up

For you golfers out there, this polo from lululemon is designed for hitting the links, with a breathable construction composed of nylon and recycled polyester. On top of that, you’re getting the label’s Silverescent technology (powered by X-STATIC) which keeps the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the fabric at bay, along with a design that cuts down on the seams to prevent chafing. There’s also some added elastane for stretch and shape retention, bolstered by the breathable mesh construction to keep you cool in the sun. Even if you aren’t golfing, this is just a great, breathable polo that’s lightweight and super comfortable, and the seamless construction really does help prevent chafing and discomfort. The fit here is advertised as slim, and it definitely is, but I didn’t find it to be too constricting. 

Again, you’re getting a slim fit here, which I personally didn’t find to be too slim (even as a larger guy), but others may want to go for a size up for a roomier feel. Also, considering the athleisure slant here (and the lack of cotton), this isn’t technically a classic polo, which may be an issue for some.

Verdict: Hit the links (or tackle summer) in style and comfort with this polo from lululemon, equipped with Silverescent technology to keep odor at bay, and a seamless design to prevent chafing.

Material:  53% nylon, 40% recycled polyester, 4% elastane, 3% X-static nylon Fit: Slim Sleeves: Medium length Sizes: XS – XXL Manufacturing Origin:  Vietnam

• Incredibly classic look and style
• Colored Pony logo on the chest
• Very soft construction
• Runs a little big

Best Polo Overall: No list of polo shirts would be complete without an option from Ralph Lauren. After all, the brand’s eponymous designer is the one who made the garment an international icon in the 1970s. This Soft Cotton shirt largely keeps with the OG polo aesthetic, though it’s been updated with a slightly more relaxed fit, a luxurious cotton interlock construction, and an ultrasoft finish. Oh, and of course, it sports the iconic polo player embroidered on the left chest.

This really wouldn’t be a true polo guide without Ralph Lauren, and we went with a super soft cotton pick that looks just as good as it feels. It’s a relaxed version of the label’s OG ‘70s-era polo, made entirely with a luxe cotton interlock with a full cut through the chest, waist, and sleeves, and low arms that fall closer to your elbows. You’re getting a three-button placket, a ribbed Polo collar, and ribbed armbands at the sleeves for a closer fit around the arms. Of course, it’s finished with that classic Pony logo at the chest, this time embroidered with color to give it some pop. Fit here is true to size, leaning towards relaxed, with extra room in the chest down to the waist, and the length is versatile enough to rock untucked, or tucked if you want a more professional look. I can’t rave enough about how soft this polo is, and this softness plays really well with the medium-weight construction, giving you a relaxed fit and feel that’s just great. 

Since this runs just a tad large, I recommend sizing down if you prefer a more true-to-size fit, but I didn’t find it to be large enough to warrant a size down for everybody. Other than that, there’s really nothing I have to criticize about this shirt, other than the price, which is a bit steep for something made overseas. 

Verdict: Ralph Lauren is a true authority in the polo space (they have a line boasting the same name, after all), and this relaxed version of the label’s iconic polo is one of the softest I’ve ever worn. 

Material: 100% cotton Fit: Relaxed Sleeves: Medium length Sizes: XS – XXL Manufacturing Origin: Vietnam

• Worn by Daniel Craig in Casino Royale
• Super breathable mesh Supima cotton construction
• Very classic look

The Bond-Approved Polo: If a shirt’s good enough for  Bond’s steely-eyed style , it’s good enough for us civilians living in the real world. First created for Daniel Craig’s performance in  Casino Royale , Sunspel’s Riviera polo is a shirt that’s since become a staple in the world of men’s fashion. Spun from a breathable cotton mesh and cut with a trim fit, this is one option that’s as hard-working as it is handsome. In short: It’ll have you looking ready for Her Majesty’s Secret Service, though we can’t promise you keys to the DB5.

Sunspel has mastered British luxury, and as a company that’s been around since the 1800s, you can trust that everything from the label is always high quality and timeless. On top of that, much of the label’s apparel has been worn by different Bonds throughout the years, like this polo that Daniel Craig wore in Casino Royale. But it’s not just the star power that makes this polo great; you’re getting a super soft Supima cotton in a breathable mesh construction that was originally developed back in the ‘50s for the French Riviera. You’re getting a soft textured skin feel from the mesh cotton that’s great for warm weather, and a slimmer fit that’s more flattering than it is constricting. Also, while it may look a bit sheer here in our images, I didn’t find it to be see-through at all, but we went with a darker navy color here, and this could be different for other colors. 

I personally didn’t think the slim fit was too tight, but others may want to go for a size up to guarantee a comfortable fit (especially if you’re on the bigger side). This pick is also a bit pricey for a polo, but you really are getting such great quality (and heritage to back it up), so I can confidently say it’s worth it. 

Verdict: Worn by Daniel Craig in Casino Royale and designed for the French Riviera, this polo from Sunspel is oozing with class, bolstered by a breathable Supima mesh construction that’s perfect for warm weather. 

Material: 100% Supima cotton Fit: Slim Sleeves: Medium length Sizes:  XS – 3XL Manufacturing Origin: Portugal

The polo shirt dates back to the late 19th century, originating from the clothes worn by polo players during their games, and it was the legendary René Lacoste that started it all in the ’20s. Lacoste’s introduction of a short-sleeved cotton shirt revolutionized sports apparel (best recognized by that iconic crocodile logo), and it went on to transcend its athletic roots to become a symbol of casual (and sometimes dressy) style. Popularized by influential figures like JFK, the polo shirt evolved into a timeless wardrobe staple, known for its versatility and staying power in both athletic and casual settings.

When it comes to styling a polo shirt, it’s all about striking that perfect balance of casual and dressy. Going with something like chinos or jeans for a classic look is always a safe bet, and if the weather calls for it, layering it under a lightweight jacket like a bomber or denim jacket is a good move, too. For a more classy look, go with tailored trousers or dressier shorts (along with something like a blazer). Pay attention to fit, too, as you want a shirt that drapes comfortably without being too tight or loose. 

René Lacoste single-handedly invented the tennis shirt back in the 1920s, so it should come as no surprise that his brand makes the cut. With the Smart Paris Polo , you’re getting the same stretchy cotton piqué construction, ribbed sleeves, and clean collar as his game-changing innovation. However, in order to create a modern, more refined style, Lacoste has concealed the button placket and embroidered the signature croc in an understated monochromatic colorway. Left up to us, we’d rock it in black, but you can’t go astray with any of the many available hues.

Crafted using remarkably soft cotton pique, the Premium Double L Polo from L.L.Bean is a sturdier alternative to typical affordable options from mall brands, like UNIQLO or Banana Republic. Made for comfort, the Double L Polo with Pocket is made for excellent breathability, with a printed label that won’t irritate. Equipped with a no-roll collar and a tonal herringbone pattern that’s subtle yet classic, the shirt has a trimmer fit that sits higher on your shoulder, which may not be optimal for broader individuals. 

Button-free polos might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but this Slub Jersey Montauk Polo from Todd Snyder features the exact quality you’d expect from the U.S.-based style brand. Designed to look better every time you throw it in the wash (which also means you’ll have to wash it separately from your other clothes), the natural indigo-dyed shirt comes in several shades of blue, and also black, and is given a trim fit for a classier yet relaxed look. If you’re a fan of Todd Snyder’s standard Montauk Polo, note that this version is slightly thicker.

Expensive? Yes. But that’s the price you pay for making a statement. And we found it crucial to highlight a brand whose sartorial prowess ranks second to none right now, especially amongst a style that leans toward the business casual end of things. Featuring a quintet of buttons down from the collar, Thom Browne’s Chest Pocket Polo is the only $400 option on this guide, but with that, you’ll get a brilliant fit made from the finest cotton you can find. Fortunately, the aggressive sleeve stripes on the brand’s other polo are swapped for the understated stripe detailing on the top of the pocket, making this one less in-your-face.

Okay, we’ll admit that this one is pushing the polo definition just a bit, but we can’t get enough of the vintage style. Between the full button-up closure, the cable-knit design, and the heavier-weight fabric, J.Crew’s Cotton Cable-Knit Polo Cardigan sweater has all the makings of a first-rate fashion piece that would have made Steve McQueen very proud. Throw this on with a pair of jeans or chinos and you’re bound to make an impression in any room you enter.

Leave it to Corridor to transform a polo into a practical sweater. The brand takes its knitted silhouettes very seriously, whether it’s embroidered sweaters or even tie-dye polos. Implementing an oversized fit constructed of plush, long pima cotton fibers with a wavy pattern that even extends to the bottom of the breast pocket, this Peru-made Scallop SS Slouchy Polo may have a specific type of wearability, but if you can pull it off, you’ll be a hit anywhere you go.

Though a polo shirt will go a long way in helping you look your best, you can’t neglect the rest of your outfit. Pair it with one of our picks from our guide to the  best summer pants for men  and you’ve got a winning combo that’s comfortable no matter the occasion.

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The 20 best polo shirts for men to wear on the green or off the clock

If you're not feeling a tee and need an easy way to elevate your look, go with a polo shirt. It's a perfect style that's neither too casual nor too dressy. Despite its roots in European tennis and American prep school culture, this iconic shirt style is incredibly versatile since it looks as good with jeans and a casual jacket as it does with a sport coat and chinos or shorts and sandals . This wardrobe staple takes you all the way from business casual, to the putting green, to any social setting in just a few simple tweaks of your attire. That's pretty versatile! And below, you'll find the best polo shirts for men to suit your personal style and budget. 

At its most basic, the polo features short sleeves, two to three buttons, and a straight hem with side vents. They are traditionally made from pique cotton, which involves a weaving style with raised parallel cords in a subtly patterned breathable fabric. 

Today, the variations of the polo are nearly endless, from long-sleeved versions to those featuring zippers and button-up plackets. They come in a variety of fabrics, from terry and linen, to recycled cotton and polyester. Our preference is to go untucked, but René Lacoste, who invented the modern polo in the 1920s, wore his tucked into his pants, so sport the polo as you see fit.

Pro tip: Hangers can stretch out your polos over time. To properly store a polo, lay it on a flat surface, fold each side towards the center of the shirt so the sleeves overlap, smooth away any wrinkles, and then tightly roll it up and store it in a drawer.

The best polo shirts for men

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The Best Polo Shirts for Men, Tested by Style Editors

We recommend shirts from Polo Ralph Lauren and Faherty.

The best polo shirts for men should work with a variety of fits, from formal to business casual, which means it can be easily dress up or down. For more casual options, we recommend they feature performance features—like moisture-wicking materials or stretchy elastane—to keep you comfortable when you're on the move.

Best Polo Shirts for Men

Best Overall

Bugatchi tipped solid polo.

Best Classic Polo

Polo ralph lauren performance polo shirt.

Best for Vacations

Todd snyder terry pocket polo in bisque.

Best Sweater Polo

Madewell johnny-collar short-sleeve sweater polo.

Best Slim Knit Polo

Billy reid stripe sweater polo.

Best Sleek Polo

Abercrombie plisse johnny collar sweater polo.

Best Button-Down Polo Shirt

Corridor plated striped button down polo.

Best Performance Shirt

Faherty movement pique polo, what to consider.

A shirt's ideal fit depends on the style. For dressier polos, our experts recommend a streamlined silhouette that's slim (but not tight) to show off your upper physique, and a tapered short sleeve that still lets your guns breathe. For more casual shirts (like sweater polos), we recommend a boxier, more relaxed fit that's breezy, but still stylish.

Overall, the best polo shirt should touch your body from shoulder to waist without binding. And a faux pas for the polo shirt's fit is that it should never fit too loose. After all, no one wants a shirt that looks like it's swallowing you up.

How We Selected

For this story, we consulted with MH fashion director Ted Stafford, who has more than 20 years of experience trying and testing polo shirts. To get a feel for how these men’s polo shirts really felt and how they held up, we vetted our options by taking notes of their fit, fabric, comfort, style, design details, versatility, and performance such as stretch, moisture-wicking, and breathability. We examined whether they fitted well and true to size, whether their fabric could withstand hours of movement in different temperatures, and whether they could be worn for more than one occasion. Our testers also include a diverse range of body types to help us ensure an unbiased result for selecting the best polo shirts for men.

Ahead, we tested over 50 men’s polo shirts in the past two years from trusted menswear brands and men's online clothing stores to find the best ones to buy now.

Of all the polo shirts we've tested this past year (and trust us: we've seen a lot ), Bugatchi's polo climbed to the top of our rankings for its flattering fit, timeless style, and its breathable fabric. First, let's talk about looks. Our fashion director Ted Stafford likes the polo's pipping around the collar and arm bands, which adds pops of color without being too flashy. We also like its classy three-button style, and its relatively slim fit. In short, this polo will look good for years to come, decreasing your cost per wear.

Like some of our favorite menswear essentials , Bugatchi's polo has some performance features. It contains a hint of stretch that moves as well as some of our favorite workout shirts, while its pima cotton is cozy, but breathable. We've worn this during hot afternoon commutes and found that it kept us cooler than most other cotton polos we've tested. If you're going to invest in one polo shirt this season, let it be this one.

Read more: Best Golf Shirts

We'd be remiss not to include Ralph Lauren, one of the OG makers of polo shirts. And the beauty of owning one of the shirts: you know it'll never go out of style. We especially love Polo Ralph Lauren's Performance Shirt, which takes the brand's classic polo and infuses it with athleisure features like stretch fabric, a breathable knit, and UPF 50 for extra sun protection. We've worn this just about everywhere, from the links, to barbecues, and everywhere in between and found that it looks great in just about any casual setting.

Plus, we also love its roomy fit, which is back in style and just adds an extra layer of comfort. In other words, if we could live in this polo shirt, we would.

Read more: Best UPF Clothing

If you're looking for a breezy shirt to wear to the pool or beach, this Terry Pocket Polo from Todd Snyder has got you covered. It's mostly made with terrycloth—the same fabric found in luxury hotel towels—which feels incredibly soft, and dries quickly. We've thrown this shirt on after a poolside dip and found the roomy fit to be extremely cozy and breathable.

We like the contrast piping along the collar and chest pocket, which adds a retro flair to our looks. Our fashion editors prefer wearing these with bright swim trunks or equally roomy shorts for a foolproof tropical fit. Take note: even though this polo is very elevated, it's for vacations only. Don't try to pull this off at the office.

Sweater polos are back . These thicker knits are cozier than their OG counterparts, and are a scotch more casual as well. We especially like this one from Madewell, who is also making a comeback with its relatively affordable, easily wearable fits. The brand's Johnny-Collar shirt comes in four colors, though we especially like the geometric blue style, since it plays well with our office chinos and off-duty jeans. The button-less style is very much in right now, and means you can easily throw this on like a Tee-shirt. In our experience, you can really use this as an everyday top come summer.

We like the 100% cotton material, which is incredibly soft, but also shrinks a bit after the first wash. Though because this comes in a relaxed fit, we found that it still fit us pretty well after cleaning it. Just make sure to hang dry it immediately after the washing machine to help keep its shape.

Lots of sweater polos we've tested have a relaxed fit. If you prefer a slimmer (but not tight!) option, we recommend this one from Billy Reid. It's cut closer through the sleeves and sides to streamline your silhouette. In other words, the cut will help you look taller and leaner.

Billy Reid has become one of our favorite menswear brands for its slightly elevated take on classic pieces. This polo shirt has a premium feel compared to mall brand shirts. The cotton fabric has a bit of heft without adding too much bulk, and the collar is sturdy enough wear under a work blazer. In short, this looks great with just about everything in your closet.

Polos usually have a preppy, Golf-ready vibe. If you want a shirt for the bars, rather than the country club, try this buttonless option from Abercrombie. It's sleek, sexy, and feels right at home with your night-out fits. That's because of its subtle plisse fabric, a striped texture that elongates your body and makes you look taller and leaner.

Its slightly higher hem means you can wear this untucked for a laidback-but-still polished look. We were surprised to find how expensive it looks, especially at this price point. That's probably because of its unique fabric, made of a cotton blend, that has a luxe sheen to it. In other words, Abercrombie's sweater polo is worth its weight in gold.

Is it a polo? Or is it a cardigan ? The answer is: Yes. Corridor's button-down shirt melds the best of both styles for a distinct look that works with a variety of fits. We like the tight cotton stitching that switches between green and beige. The result: a vertical stripe finish that looks great on most guys. And because this was handmade in Peru, no shirt looks the same.

Corridor's polo buttons all the way down, like a cardigan. We've worn this unbuttoned over our favorite undershirt for a layered look. On hotter days, we've worn it on its own with the top two buttons undone. Either way, we found this shirt looks great for casual hangouts, or vacation fits.

A bunch of menswear brands have been churning out polos with performance features. But few do it as well (or with style) as Faherty. Its movement pique polo looks like a classic polo, but houses some modern specs. It has a hint of stretchy elastane, which allows the shirt to move like a second skin (hence the name). We like the modal-cotton blend fabric, which is soft and breathable, while still looking polished enough for the office.

Our editors have worn this on golf courses, in meeting rooms, and found that it worked well in both settings. That means you've got an extremely versatile shirt. And thanks to its old-school silhouette, you know it'll always be in style.

Read more: Best Workout Shirts

What Else to Consider

One of the signature details of a polo shirt is its buttons. There can be two or three buttons—the more, the more formal the shirt looks. They can contrast or blend in with the color of the fabric, for style purposes. Most importantly, there can be no button at all—replaced by a buttonless Johnny collar or a zip.

Color and Pattern

You want to have a few solid-color polos in your arsenal—preferably white, navy, black, or gray and a couple of seasonal colors. Beyond that, you can then invest in some more detailed polos like a stripe, any graphic pattern, color-blocking, or just a few contrasting stitches here and there. These make for great vacation shirts, layering options, and night-out shirts, whereas the solid-color polos are better for more formal occasions.

Determine the purpose of your polo shirt. For casual wear, soft comfort and a flattering fit are keys. For business casual and formal wear, stick to classic colors like black, white, or deep navy and a button-down or spread collar as well as a tailored fit. For athletic and outdoor activities, make sure your polos are made with moisture-wicking, quick-drying, stretchy, or even UV-protection fabrics. For traveling, a polo shirt would be stretchy, wrinkle-resistant, breathable, and versatile enough to be dressed up or down. Lastly, polo shirts are all-season-friendly, but you’ll want lightweight, breathable fabrics for summer, and thicker, heftier materials for colder weather.

How to Style Polo Shirts

While polo shirts have always (and will always, mark our words) been in style thanks to their timeless cuts and formidable versatility, the ways to style them have changed for the better: so long the polo you choose looks appropriate with the bottoms you have and with the occasion you’re attending to, it’ll work.

For instance, in formal settings, a solid-color, slim-fit polo shirt will look extra classy with chinos or dress trousers. For vacations, a relaxed-fit polo shirt can be worn with matching or contrasting swim trunks and sweat shorts for a casual vibe.

Additionally, think about whether to tuck in polo shirts to look more elevated or formal. A straight-hem polo, for instance, is made to be tucked in. A loose-fit polo, on the other hand, looks much better untucked. And when it comes to the hem, you want it to hit just below the waist so you can easily tuck it in but doesn't dangle below your hips.

Read More of Our Favorite Menswear Essentials

Best Short Sleeve Shirts | Best Silk Shirts | Best Long-Sleeve T-Shirts | Best Crochet Shirts | Best Camp Collar Shirts | Best T-Shirts | Best Long-Sleeve Polo Shirts | Best Knitted Polo Shirts | Best Golf Shirts

Ted Stafford is the Fashion Director of Men’s Health. He oversees all style and fashion content for the brand, and also styles their fashion stories. His active lifestyle informs his passion for translating great designs into real-life style, a favorite part of his job. Prior to joining Men’s Health he worked at GQ magazine and Calvin Klein

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15 Best Merino Wool Shirts for Traveling and Beyond

Apparently, the perfect low-maintenance top does exist.

Merino wool is a special kind of fabric that has long been revered for its quality and comfort, making it a staple for outdoor enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike. Derived from the Merino sheep, this fine fiber manages to be both luxuriously soft and extremely practical at the same time. Unlike traditional wool, some of the best Merino wool shirts have moisture-wicking capabilities and are odor-resistant , which helps regulate your body temperature in both hot and cold conditions.

best everyday merino wool shirt

Allbirds soft tee.

best short-sleeve merino wool shirt

Bonobos sweater polo.

best button-down merino wool shirt

Eton houndstooth shirt.

Available in an assortment of styles—from athletic fits that are comfortable for a hike, to semi-formal styles that are more office-friendly — Merino wool shirts are the ideal travel companion or Father's Day gift to drop hints about. And to help you choose the perfect one, we've included 15 of the best options below.

An ultra-smooth active tee designed for laidback vibes, this style is guaranteed to keep you comfy while you're on the move.

Why We Like It: - It's great for everyday wear, jogs, and walks. What You Should Know: - It's also crafted with organic cotton and lyocell.

Cut like a vintage polo, Bonobos created the perfect Merino wool sweater that can easily be paired with a blazer or light jacket. Why We Like It: - It fits a range of body types. What Should Know: - It's available in two different colorways.

Since 1928, Eton has been a flag bearer for style, quality, and craft, and their houndstooth button-down shirt will ensure you clean up real nice. Why We Like It: - It's softer and less stiff than a traditional dress shirt. What You Should Know: - It has a contemporary fit and a spread collar.

Merino.tech T-Shirt

Simple, easy, and versatile—what else could you possibly need in a T-shirt? Why We Like It: - It's made with UPF 50+ protection to shield you from the sun. What You Should Know: - It comes with a free pair of hiking socks.

MR P. Striped T-Shirt

Elevate your T-shirt collection by adding this Mr. P style to the mix. It's the ultimate grab-and-go option for summer drinks, your 9-5, or that upcoming trip to Tokyo. Why We Like It: - The knitted construction gives it a nice drape. What You Should Know: - It's designed for a slightly looser fit.

Paul Smith Polo Shirt

A long-sleeve polo shirt? For summer? What the fuck am I thinking ? Have no fear; I'll let you in on a little secret: not only will this Paul Smith style elevate your everyday wardrobe, but it will also keep you protected from the sun's harsh rays.

Why We Like It: - It's an essential that works year round. What You Should Know: - A concealed placket makes for a clean finish.

Huckberry 72-Hour Shirt

We've written a love letter to this Merino wool tee before, and I'm happy to report that our feelings haven't fizzled. This best-selling option is the ultimate travel shirt, and perfect for adventures that call for packing light and staying comfortable. Why We Like It: - You can take it just about anywhere. What You Should Know: - Even after 72+ hours of constant wear, it’ll still pass the "sniff test" thanks to its naturally odor-resistant and moisture-wicking properties.

Unbound Merino Polo Shirt

If you've ever wanted a soft and stylish polo that you can wear just about anywhere, then look no further that this polo from Unbound Merino.

Why We Like It: - It's light and airy, so will hold up on even the hottest days. What You Should Know: - It's wrinkle-resistant, so it's ideal for packing.

Bonobos T-Shirt Pack

Two-tee's for the price of one? In this economy? It's a no-brainer. Why We Like It: - This multi-pack option is great for layering. What You Should Know: - No irritating tags scratching at your neck.

Jack Victor Bailey Shirt

This Jack Victor option offers more breathability than 100% Merino styles because it’s 58% Merino wool, 30% silk, and 12% linen—making it an ideal summer staple. Why We Like It: - It's the perfect mix of a sporty and casual vibe. What You Should Know: - It's available in four different colorways.

Designed specifically for workouts, this Merino wool tee allows you to train in just about any temp. Soft and adaptable, it has odor-fighting and moisture-wicking properties that will hold up to even the most intense fitness routine. Why We Like It: - It will help cool you in the heat and insulate you in the cold. What You Should Know: - It sits close to your body and almost feels like a second skin.

Quince Merino Tee

Not only is this pick affordable, it comes in four colors that can anchor any wardrobe. It's not too thick or thin so it'll layer nicely any time of year.

Why We Like It: - It's wrinkle-resistant, has UV protection, and is naturally breathable; need we say more? What You Should Know: - This option will keep you comfortable all day long.

AllSaints Polo

This All Saints polo is a great designer option—without the designer price tag. It offers a tailored fit, collared neck, and embroidered logo, and will allow you to stunt without spending too much. Why We Like It: - It can easily be dressed up or down. What You Should Know: - This option has a straight hem.

Arc'teryx Base Layer

This wouldn't be a list of the best Merino wool shirts if we didn't include an option that was created just for the great outdoors. With its streamlined and comfortable fit, the Arc'teryx base layer top is made to move with you on your hikes, runs, ski tours, and mountain treks. Why We Like It: - It's breathable, lightweight, and air permeable. What You Should Know: - The soft fabric give you unrestricted mobility.

Patagonia Capilene Shirt

Of course, Patagonia, the brand known for creating upscale outdoor clothing, would make a durable Merino wool shirt that can also serve as a great basic. It's truly the best of both worlds—you can either wear it while mountain biking or while munching on some chips and salsa at home; I'll let you decide which one is better. Why We Like It: - It's everything we love about a rugged shirt without looking too rugged. What You Should Know: - Set-in sleeves allow for enhanced movement and fit.

What To Look For

On this list, we have a style for just about every vibe. But if you don't know where to start, we suggest finding the right fit first. Athletic Fit: Merino wool shirts with an athletic fit tend to stick closer to your body and are great for those days when you're ready to rev your heartbeat up . This style also tends to make a great base for blazers, button-downs, and knit sweaters because it will stop your body from overheating.

Semi-Formal Fit: If you're looking for a dressier style, you should seek out Merino wool shirts in the form of a polo or button-down . These options will typically hug you in all the right places and can easily be worn on their own for an elevated ensemble.

Casual Fit: Basics should never be overlooked, which is why we think Merino wool shirts with a more casual fit are essential. This style is extremely versatile and will probably become the most-worn garment in your rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Merino Wool? Merino wool is a specific kind of wool that comes from a variety of sheep first bred in Spain. It's finer than standard wool , which also makes it softer and much more comfortable—you won't have to worry about any irritation here. Why Are Merino Wool Shirts Good for Travel? Merino wool shirts are a great option for travel because the material has antimicrobial properties, slowing the growth of odor-causing bacteria. You don't have to wash them as often as other clothing so that you can reduce the number of items on your packing list. Plus, they're also temperature-regulating, making them reliable options in warm, cold, and wet weather conditions.

Why You Can Trust Esquire

We're not going to say something is great unless it's actually great. Our fashion and e-commerce teams carefully choose every product in Esquire's roundups.

When it comes to Merino wool shirts, one style does not fit all—which is why we've compiled the options we've tried, tested, and loved over the years, as well as the shirts that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse. We've put in the research, we've worn these ourselves , and now we're recommending them to you because they're just that good.

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I’m Upgrading My Husband’s Summer Basics While These Lightweight, Breathable Linen Shirts Are on Sale

They’re 20 percent off with our exclusive code.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Shopping for summer clothes can be tough, but finding travel pieces that are easily packable, lightweight, and versatile in warmer weather adds a whole new level of difficulty to the equation. As my husband and I head into a busy season of work travel, vacations, and weddings, I have a feeling he might need a refresh on some basic shirts that fit a myriad of occasions. 

In preparation, I’m eyeing some options from Charles Tyrwhitt . The brand's timeless selection includes linen button-ups, cooling polos, no-iron shirts, and more that come in so many summer-ready patterns and colors. And the best part? The brand offers a discounted price of $259 for four shirts or polos, and you can get an extra 20 percent off with the code FATHER20 at checkout.

Best Shirt Deals at Charles Tyrwhitt 

• Collarless Cotton Linen Shirt , $80 (originally $99) 
• Pure Linen Short-Sleeve Shirt , $96 (originally $119) 
• Pure Linen Shirt , $96 (originally $119)
• Spread Collar Denim Shirt , $80 (originally $99)
• Button-Down Collar Non-Iron Stretch Short-Sleeve Shirt , $96 (originally $119)
• Non-Iron Twill Shirt , $88 (originally $109)
• Smart Jersey Polo , $88 (originally $109)
• Tyrwhitt Pique Contrast Tipping Polo , $88 (originally $109)
• Tyrwhitt Cool Geo Print Polo , $88 (originally $109)

Charles Tyrwhitt Collarless Cotton Linen Shirt

Charles Tyrwhitt

We have a few trips to tropical locations planned this year, and this collarless linen and cotton blend shirt is the ideal piece for a laid-back dinner or event that requires a smart-casual look. Shoppers agree, with one customer noting the “great quality, material, and price” of the shirt. The material is meant to be lightweight and cooling, which another shopper confirmed saying it is a “nice summer shirt.” The Collarless Cotton Linen Shirt has a slim fit and comes in solid white and blue-striped. 

Charles Tyrwhitt Pure Linen Short-Sleeve Shirt

It’s hard to beat a lightweight, short-sleeve shirt in the summer, especially when it’s 100 percent linen and is available in six colors. This shirt comes in both a classic and slim fit for added customization, and one customer ensures that it “fits well” and is “comfortable and cool on hot days.” While this pure linen shirt is made from a thicker material, multiple shoppers said they were surprised at how “durable and breathable” the shirts are. 

Charles Tyrwhitt Button-Down Collar Non-Iron Stretch Short-Sleeve Shirt

To add more versatility to my husband’s wardrobe, I’m eyeing these fun printed, short-sleeve shirts . They are made from 100 percent cotton, so I know they’ll be breathable and lightweight for summer. Plus, I love that the soft material is machine-washable for easy maintenance and won’t require any ironing while on vacation. 

Keep scrolling for more summer-ready shirts from Charles Tyrwhitt , and don’t forget to use code FATHER20 at checkout to save 20 percent on your purchase.  

Charles Tyrwhitt Pure Linen Shirt

Spread collar denim shirt.

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By Reed Nelson

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Hybrid design is a tricky proposition (see: zip-off cargo pants), but the best knitted polo shirts are the exception to the rule. How, exactly, do they manage to pull it off? Simple: by combining the telltale elements of two reliable menswear stalwarts—the sweater and the polo—and ensuring that 1+1 really does equal 3. So let’s start with the first half of that equation.

The sweater is renowned for its uncanny ability to render its wearer delightfully cozy without sacrificing any respectability in the process. The polo is a shirt that dads and your WASPiest friends have worn on the weekends and golf courses since the dawn of time. Back in the days of goodfellas like Henry Hill, though, knit polo shirts in lightweight fabrics, frequently embellished with bold patterns, were a go-to. And as luck would have it, the style gods have brought them back right as a new wave of old man style is reaching high tide.

Whether you're on your Mad Men -era power lunch tip, woefully posturing your way through country club life, or simply looking for something else to wear besides tees and camp shirts this summer, the best knit polo shirts deliver in a big way—and every version worth knowing about is right here.

The Best Knitted Polo Shirts, According to GQ

• The Best Budget Knit Polo: Abercrombie & Fitch Open Stitch Sweater Polo , $70
• The Best Upgrade Knit Polo: John Smedley Sea Island Cotton-Piqué Polo Shirt , $270
• The Best Everyday Knit Polo: Madewell Three-Button Sweater Polo Shirt , $88
• The Best Knit Polo for Summer: Banana Republic Giorgio Linen-Cotton Resort Shirt , $100
• The Best Long-Sleeve Knit Polo: Beams Plus Striped Knitted Polo Shirt , $175
• The Best Designer Knit Polo: Wales Bonner Sonic Stripe Long Sleeve Rib Polo , $520
• The Best Links-Ready Knit Polo: Metalwood Crossline Knit Polo , $128

Best Budget Knit Polo: Abercrombie & Fitch Open Stitch Sweater Polo

Abercrombie & Fitch

Open-Stitch Johnny-Collar Sweater Polo

If you're a little timid about diving into the texture-heavy deep end of the knit polo market, Abercrombie's enormous selection of stylish, sub-$100 options can help you test the waters without breaking the bank. This particular option isn’t only easy on the wallet—because it's on the more minimal side (single color, buttonless design), its integration into your wardrobe doesn't require a full style overhaul. And should you learn to love the vibe, there’s an entire quiver of options to help you double or triple down on the look for the rest of summer.

Best Long-Sleeve Knit Polo: Beams Plus Striped Knitted Polo Shirt

Striped Knitted Polo Shirt

Menswear writers (us) like to indulge in the annoying habit of anointing “staples”. You know the type of pieces we’re talking about here: they’re versatile, sure, and you should probably own one or two of them, but you could definitely make it through life largely unscathed in their absence. So consider this both a mea culpa and a doubling-down on the idea—because the long-sleeve knit polo fits the bill to a T. Do you really need one if you already own one of its short-sleeve counterparts? Probably not. Will your wardrobe be all the better for it the moment you buy one? Absolutely. Take this pleasantly retro version from Japan’s answer to J.Crew as an example. No matter the context, it’ll rise to the occasion with spectacular alacrity, dressing down a nubby linen blazer at your next rooftop drinks hang, or elevating your jeans during a hazy night out. We’re really trying to curb our tendency of wantonly anointing “staples”, but damn, Beams Plus makes it hard.

Best Everyday Knit Polo: Madewell Three-Button Sweater Polo Shirt

Three-Button Sweater Polo Shirt

If you’ve ever owned a knit polo, you know how easily the right one can become an everyday go-to—or an everyday want -to, depending on your laundry cycle. The journey there starts off simple enough: you try wearing one with a crisp pair of trousers, and before you know it, you’re wearing it with every pair of mid-rise jeans you own. (It’s all over after that.) That entire rigmarole is part and parcel of the knit polo’s appeal, and few encapsulate its distinct brand of versatility like Madewell’s, the born-again powerhouse of jack-of-all-trades menswear . This version boasts a Godlilocks length, a perfectly-dialed collar, and just enough visual interest to land it a starting spot in your weekly rotation.

Best Designer Knit Polo: Wales Bonner Sonic Stripe Long Sleeve Rib Polo

Wales Bonner

Sonic Stripe Long Sleeve Rib Polo

A classic is a classic is a classic—at least until a designer like British wunderkind Grace Wales Bonner gets her hands on it. Her signature soccer jersey-adjacent knit polos, for example, imbue the erstwhile casual Friday hall-of-famer with a jolt of retro-sporty flair: slim profile, slinky cotton fabric, pronounced V-neck collar. All of them are good, but the way the blue collides with the green on this gorgeous striped number transforms it into an instant—and thoroughly modern —classic. No need to worry about toning those verdant colors down: When the silhouette is this rooted in menswear lore, it’ll hold its own against whatever you throw at it.

Best Knit Polo for Summer: Banana Republic Giorgio Linen-Cotton Resort Shirt

Banana Republic

Giorgio Linen-Cotton Resort Shirt

If you just checked the weather app and realized it's going to be, like, tropics-level balmy for the next few weeks, the last thing you need is to expend undue energy worrying about what to wear. Short of going shirtless, your best bet is linen, the unbeatable summer fabric prized for its easy, breezy nature and nubby handfeel. We’re on-the-record fans of linen shirts of every flavor , but Banana Republic’s cotton-linen riff on the knit polo is especially drool-worthy for its sheer versatility. If the airy knit pattern isn’t enough to whet your appetite, the full-placket front will get your tummy rumbling. Rock it buttoned, semi-buttoned, or totally unbuttoned as the weather dictates.

Best Upgrade Knit Polo: John Smedley Sea Island Cotton-Piqué Polo Shirt

John Smedley

Roth Slim-Fit Sea Island Cotton-Piqué Polo Shirt

So you’ve mastered the beginner-level knit polo. Maybe you own one of them, maybe you own ten. Either way, you no longer need convincing of its unimpeachable outfit-upgrading prowess—which means it’s time to upgrade your own selection, too. Enter John Smedley, the generations-old British label whose knit polos are so storied, so sumptuous , its riff on the style was the only version to secure a coveted spot in GQ’s inaugural All-Stars class . For decades now, Smedley has thrown the full weight of its expertise behind a second-to-none selection of preposterously soft pique-knit polos that fit like a sweater but wear like the laid-back collared joints you grew up with. The secret to their success is two-fold: the Sea Island cotton, which might literally be the softest in the world, and that thoughtful ribbing along both the sleeves and hem. Paul Revere was right: The British are, indeed, coming…for your polo rotation.

Best Links-Ready Knit Polo: Metalwood Studio Crossline Knit Polo

Crossline Knit Polo

Are you a self-proclaimed cool guy who likes to golf? You’re in luck—these days, there’s no reason your on-course fits shouldn’t reflect that. In 2024, there are more ways than ever to skip the drab, ill-fitting khakis and mesh-y pique polos that used to dominate the links. Metalwood's Crossline knit polo, for example, looks equally at home at the country club during the daytime and next to the pool table later that night. The loose fit lets you sweat it out in style, while the pattern is interesting but not overly chaotic—kind of like your “signature” stroke.

More Knit Polos We Love

Dries Van Noten

Pointelle Knit Polo Shirt

Expertly cut and beautifully textured, Dries Van Noten’s pointelle number—which feels like a sweater but wears like a polo—is one of the swankier options on the list, but that doesn’t mean it won’t pop off with shorts and sandals.

Casatlantic

Anfa Mesh Knit Polo

Rendered in pure cotton from a waffle knit so textured it’s almost topographical , Casatlantic’s Anfa knit polo oozes retro charm sourced straight from the silhouette’s heyday. There’s an extra-wide spread collar, wide ribbing at both the sleeves and the hem, and zero buttons in sight—and, as you’d expect, the whole shebang looks killer with high-waisted trousers . If a Greatest Knits collection was a shirt, it’d look like this.

Plated SS Shirt

You could get caught up in category semantics here, or you could simply embrace the trippy knit pattern, absurdly soft cotton, and OD easy vibes. It’s still (presumably) impossible for a shirt to float atop your person, but if one could, it would probably feel like this one.

Short Sleeve Cotton Mesh-Stitch Johnny Collar Sweater Polo

An extra-breathable, heatwave-proof shirt that can become as sexy as you want it to be. Seriously—if you haven’t noticed already, knit polos can turn up in ways their pique counterparts can’t.

Todd Snyder

Relaxed Stripe Montauk Polo

Johnny-collar polos are enjoying what we in the biz call “a moment” right now, and Todd Snyder has turned the style into an art form—particularly with this aptly-named silk-cotton combo. Between the dropped shoulders, airy fit, and big ol’ collar, it has basically zero no-fly zones.

Casa Martini Polo

A red-carpet favorite for, like, 15 different reasons , Percival’s crazy-comfy knit polos—like this retro-leaning riff—will cut through basically any crowd, save for a paparazzi scrum. Need to turn up the star wattage at any point this summer? Wear this, nubby linen pants, and suede loafers and you’re good to go.

Avalon Knit Polo

A photo-finish contender for the “Best Everyday” category, this is the kind of knit polo you’ll find excuses to wear year-round. And because it’s made with sturdy hand-linked seams and a light-but-not-too-light 16-gauge cotton jersey, you won’t need to justify much.

Knickerbocker

Knickerbocker’s Yuma polo is 100% a shirt with holes in it, but it’s one that won't make you feel like you're wearing a shirt with holes in it. In other words, it’s a perfect foray into the world of loose-gauge knit polos.

Scott Fraser Collection

Textured Stripe Beach Polo

It’s not that buttons are inessential on a knit polo, but in this case they are thoroughly unwelcome . Very high-waisted trousers, however, are most welcome. Not required, but most welcome.

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The Best Travel Clothes for Women Inspired by Celebrities Like Katie Holmes and Taylor Swift

Starting at just $12

Versatile Travel Dresses

Flowy pants and maxi skirts, travel tops and breezy blouses.

• Other Travel Clothes You’re Forgetting
• How to Pack

Why Trust PEOPLE?

People / Getty / Gwyneth Paltrow / Instagram

As a travel writer, my suitcase is nearly always half-packed. Long flights demand comfort, but new sights and cities demand style . To complicate matters, I’m a maximalist, so traditional travel advice to cram a small capsule wardrobe into a backpack never quite appeals to me, even if I have to fight the luggage scale when checking in for my flight.

Packing properly for any trip can be daunting, whether you’re throwing together a duffel for a girls’ weekend or filling a checked bag  for a multi-month jaunt all over Europe. Still, my adventures across multiple countries, climates, and time zones taught me to reach for certain staples — like comfortable walking shoes and a reliable crossbody purse — time and time again. While nailing down my perfect travel wardrobe, I turned to on-the-go celebrities like Taylor Swift and Emily Blunt for inspiration. 

A packing list comprised of versatile dresses, flowy pants, maxi skirts, and breezy shirts can go a long way — literally. Read on for the best celeb-inspired travel clothes for women to pack for your upcoming trips, as determined by shopper insights, professional style writers, celebrity research, and more.

Dresses give you plenty of bang for your buck when it comes to traveling. For one, they tend to be flexible compared to other clothing items: You can dress them up or down more effectively to target a specific dress code. Chic maxi dresses reigned supreme last summer, and Meghan Markle recently elevated  that trend in a silky high-neck maxi dress — stylish enough for a formal engagement but breezy enough for an afternoon in the sun.

Dresses of varying lengths also tend to be more conducive to layering. While summer may be “sundress season,” and we see celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow reaching for transitional midi styles in spring, the right travel dress can be an effective staple in your winter wardrobe, too. You can keep the style in your cold-weather repertoire by winterizing the look like Emily Ratajkowski . Opt for a darker colorway, chunky boots, and maybe a sweater. 

Shop any of these styles starting at just $30

The Drop Women’s Britt Tiered Maxi Tent Dress

This tiered maxi dress has an array of 1,900+ perfect five-star ratings on Amazon for its airiness — and rave reviews from multiple PEOPLE writers . It’s such a classic silhouette for all occasions, and it has the most coveted design detail on dresses: pockets. Shoppers do note that there’s little stretch, so consider your bust size when ordering. 

Sizes: XXS–5X | Materials: 100% Tencel Lyocell | Colors: 18

Editors Say

“I bought this maxi dress from The Drop when it was on sale, and I’m going to buy two more at full price — that’s how much I love it. In fact, I have to force myself not to wear it multiple times a week. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and flattering for my short, curvy body. It even has pockets and adjustable straps that can be crossed in the back. The best part, though? I don’t have to wear a bra!” — Kayla Kitts , shopping editor

Linen Roll Tab Dollman Midi Dress

Chico's

An ankle-skimming midi always comes in handy, and a linen fabric is an excellent choice for temperature regulation: cooling in warmer climates yet cozy in cooler ones. This relaxed, button-down frock comes in whimsical watermelon and khaki hues. It even has adjustable, oversized sleeves for added comfort.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 100% linen | Colors: 2

Skinny Strap Seamless Mini Slip

Free People

Free People excels in lightweight, flattering, multi-use dresses. Most pieces in their slip category — like this itty-bitty seamless LBD — can be worn as an undergarment, dress, or top. (Just tuck it in!) Each slip truly compresses down to nothing, making it the ultimate space-saving garment.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 92% nylon, 8% spandex | Colors: 3

Roxy Golden Dawn Dress

Everybody needs a comfortable floral sundress to throw on in warmer climates, especially after a sunburn. Whether you frequent the beach in your travels or just want something soft that wears in well over time, this Roxy pick is built for comfort.

Available Sizes: M, L | Materials: Viscose | Colors: 1

Tencel Jersey Tank Maxi Dress

This Quince pick has a soft, comfy stretch ideal for long days on your feet, and is even made of biodegradable fabric. With six colorways and a  lightweight and sleeveless silhouette, this dress almost guarantees plenty of use.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: Tencel, spandex | Colors: 6

People / Getty

The right flowy pants can make the ultimate base layer, whether you’re on a nine-hour flight or dressing to the nines. Loose, roomier pants have been all the rage this year, with celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence , Zendaya , and Emily Blunt all sporting various wide-leg styles.

Similarly, breezy white maxi skirts are majorly on trend right now (and always), stylist Liz Teich told PEOPLE. Just look at Katie Holmes stepping out in NYC. She exemplifies how airy styles can be  great for warmer weather, but still look polished. Plus, the lighter fabrics are literally lighter in your bag, so why not throw in another?

Tronjori High Waist Casual Wide Leg Palazzo Pants

This Amazon pick embodies the quintessential palazzo pant we’ve all bookmarked on Pinterest. The wide leg and high waist are timeless, and the pair comes in a whopping 31 different colorways, plus tall and petite variations.

Sizes: XS–XXL, short and long options | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 31

Hermoza Rachel Skirt Dress

While this one’s more of a splurge, its multifunctionality makes it a worthy all-in-one piece for any vacation. As a frequent traveler and Hawai’i resident, I was absolutely flabbergasted (and fascinated) when I found out this floral maxi skirt/dress hybrid is made of durable swimsuit material.  

Pair it with the matching swimsuit top for a striking two-piece set by the beach, wear it as a vibrant maxi dress to dinner, or style the skirt alone with a gauzy button-down and sandals for a jaunt through town. Of course, I love how convenient it is to wash and dry for travels, too.

Sizes: XS–L | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 1

Nashalyly Chiffon High-Waisted Pleated Skirt

This shopper-favorite maxi skirt has over 5,000 five-star ratings from Amazon customers, who note that you’ll want to size up for the best fit. Reviewers appreciate the skirt’s easy movement, comfortable elastic waist, and how many outfits they can build with it.

Sizes: S–3XL | Materials: Chiffon | Colors: 44

Daily Practice by Anthropologie Parachute Pants

Anthropologie

These pants are my personal go-to. I wear them to work in, to work out in, and to casual gatherings and nights out with friends. Most crucially, I wear them every single time I pass through an airport. They’re incredibly comfortable, lightweight (I tend to overheat on travel days), and adaptable, with plenty of pockets for easy ID and passport access. I’ve bought them in multiple colors, from neutrals to bolds.

Sizes: XXS–3X plus petite sizing | Materials: Nylon | Colors: 9

Getty Images

Even if you’re wearing the same pair of jeans day in, day out for the duration of your ten-day stint to Australia, Greece, or wherever you’re traveling, the right top can make a similar foundation feel like an entirely different look. First, you’ll want a collection of sleek, basic tanks and tops for ultimate versatility. Or perhaps a nautical, striped button down, ideally summoning visions of boat days and beachside barbecues. (Oh, and easy sun protection.) As Jessica Alba proves with white jeans and coordinating sneakers, the look is seasonal and sophisticated .

And is there anything better than wearing a delicate eyelet blouse on a hot summer day? A breezy blouse can serve as a dressy swimsuit cover-up at the beach. It can also keep your wardrobe work-friendly while on a Zoom meeting across time zones, or give a romantic vibe during date night. 

Wear it loose like Taylor Swift out for a summer walk, or tucked in like Jennifer Aniston at dinner in Paris. Either way, a casual blouse might just be a better companion on your vacation than your plus one.

Wild Fable Cap Sleeve Ruched Side Seam T-Shirt

This pullover top can be styled in a variety of ways, making it a must-have on any trip with limited packing space. The subtle side ruching and cap sleeve add some feminine detail that dress it up for more elevated occasions, but it’s definitely casual enough to rock on a daily basis. As another PEOPLE writer noted , the cap sleeve is an ideal middle ground between a tank and short sleeve — which might be why Jennifer Aniston and Taylor Swift are so fond of the style.

Sizes: XXS–4X | Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex | Colors: 4

H&M Top with Eyelet Embroidery Sleeves

A simple eyelet short-sleeve top can serve you on many occasions, whether jetting off on a day trip or trekking to your regular weekend brunch spot. At only $20, this adorable H&M puff-sleeve is just frothy enough to add a little je ne sais quoi , but has a  French simplicity at its core.

Sizes: XS–XXL | Materials: 100% cotton | Colors: 3

Gap Modern Mock Neck

Deal alert.

This Gap tank is up to 60 percent off in a range of neutral and stripe patterns for a limited time.

There’s never a bad time to stock up on flattering basics like this Gap tank. Available in regular, tall, and petite sizes, this Meghan Markle -esque mock-neck top has a straight silhouette and slim fit, and truly goes with everything .

Sizes: XXS–XXL, in regular, tall, and petite | Materials: 58% cotton, 39% modal, 3% spandex | Colors: 5

AE Perfect Button-Up Shirt

American Eagle

Right now, this American Eagle button-up is 60 percent off in all colors.

Okay, we’ll admit it: We never quite got over the coastal grandmother trend. And why should we? The whole point is that it’s timeless, classic, and elegant whether you’re going all-in on a preppy look or simply throwing on a striped button-down as a cover-up after the beach. This soft, effortless shirt has a slightly oversized fit for extra comfort.

Sizes: XXS–XXL | Materials: 100% cotton | Colors: 8

The Other Travel Clothes You’re Forgetting

Tops? Check. Flowy pants and skirts? Check. Dresses that you can wear out or treat as a cover-up? Practically the daily uniform. Still, there are a few other staples you’ll want to make sure you have on hand, too. It’s an oft-repeated cliché, but layering truly is key.

Levi’s Womens 501 Original Jean Shorts

These Levi’s shorts are currently 40 percent off at Amazon. 

Jean shorts are essential for casual days strolling through a city or impromptu meetups with friends. Throw them on over a sleek swimsuit or break them out in transitional weather. And this isn’t the only Levi’s denim we’re fond of — two of its most popular jeans hold space in our team’s closets, too.

Sizes: 23–39 | Materials: Denim | Colors: 44

AE Long Weekend Crewneck Sweater

This American Eagle Crewneck Sweater is 60 percent off for a limited time.

A layerable neutral sweater is another travel must-have, especially in that frigid airplane air conditioning. Similarly, for those long stretches away from home, an oversized sweater can also be a cuddly comfort for when you’re missing your own bed.

Sizes: XXS–L | Materials: Cotton | Colors: 1

How to Pack the Best Travel Clothes

When building your travel wardrobe, you’ll want to consider factors like trip duration, climate, and more. Do you want year-round items or would you rather commit to rotating your staples seasonally? Will you have access to laundry? (If not, you’ll want to opt for fabrics that wick away odor and sweat so you can get multiple wears out of each item.) Are there sights or situations that have etiquette requirements and dress codes requiring a certain amount of coverage? 

Some personal guidance as a travel expert: Many packing guides might swear by a neutral, minimalist capsule wardrobe for ultimate frequency of wear, but you shouldn’t be afraid to go maximalist either. If you pick comfortable, durable pieces, you’ll still get more use from those “singular” funky outfits than you expect — and your camera roll will thank you for choosing the pieces you actually love most. Similarly, accessories like bold jewelry or belts generally take up very little luggage real estate but go a long way in elevating any look. Might as well add some pizzazz to your Pisa pic, right?

And don’t forget the packing cubes and travel organizers to get the most space out of your carry-on suitcase , either.

Grace Smith is a fashion and travel writer who, as a frequent hotel reviewer, spends as much time as possible floating through various destinations. Long flights (and the resulting OOTDs) are very much her forte. She extensively combed through shopper reviews, expert commentary, and celebrity insights for the top travel clothing items. Looking at the most popular brands and keeping her own globe-trotting experience in mind, Grace curated this list of the best travel clothes for women to pack for all of your 2024 destinations.

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Balashikha is the largest city in Moscow Oblast , Russia .

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Balashikha was founded in 1830, and became the center of the textile industry, but that is now closed

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By train [ edit ].

From the Kursk railway station (Kurskaya and Chkalovskaya stations) in Moscow, trains leave for the Balashikha station (41 minutes).

By car [ edit ]

The center of Balashikha is 6 km from the Moscow ring road. Gorkovskoe highway M7, Shchelkovskoe highway A103 and Nosovikhinskoe highway pass through the city.

Get around [ edit ]

There are 16 city bus routes and fixed-route taxis in Balashikha. Suburban routes connect Balashikha with the nearest metro stations and with the cities of Zheleznodorozhny and Reutov. Transit suburban routes follow from Moscow to settlements in neighboring districts of the Moscow region.

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• Sports and ski complex "Lisya Gora" , Razinskoe highway, 69 , ☏ +7 495 521-81-18 , + 7-985-210-09-06 . W-Su 10:00 - 17:00 . ( updated Oct 2021 )

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Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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