Polo Buying Guide
Buying the right polo comes down to matching fabric, collar, fit and detail to how you will wear it. This hub pulls the whole centre together into a simple, confident way to choose. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Match to the occasion
Start With the Use
Let the occasion lead the choice.
How to decide
Decide first whether the polo is for the office, weekend or sport, as this sets the fabric and style you need.
Quick tip
A plain pima polo is the most versatile single buy. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Choose the Fabric
Match fabric to smartness and use.
How to decide
Choose pique for classic wear, pima or mercerised for premium smartness, and a performance blend for golf and heat.
Quick tip
Skip performance synthetics for smart-casual style.
Pick the Collar
Let the collar set the tone.
How to decide
Choose a flat-knit collar for smart wear, a ribbed collar for casual, and a zip neck for a modern sporty look.
Quick tip
A firm, knitted-on collar keeps its shape longest.
Get the fit right
Get the Fit Right
Fit the shoulders and length first.
How to decide
Choose a fit where the shoulder seam sits at your shoulder edge and the hem lands around mid-fly for tuck or untuck.
Quick tip
Slim for lean builds, muscle for athletic, regular for most. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Check the Sleeve
Make sure the sleeve hugs the arm.
How to decide
A short sleeve should finish mid-bicep and lightly hug the arm, not grip or hang loose.
Quick tip
A ribbed cuff keeps the sleeve neat.
Consider the Length
Choose a length you can tuck or leave out.
How to decide
A polo ending around the mid-fly works both tucked and untucked; longline suits taller frames.
Quick tip
Too long or too short both look off untucked.
Judge the quality
Inspect Collar and Placket
Look for a firm collar and reinforced placket.
How to decide
Check the collar is dense and knitted-on and the placket is reinforced so it stays flat and keeps shape.
Quick tip
A thin, floppy collar will curl quickly. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Weigh the Branding
Choose a branding level that fits the occasion.
How to decide
Pick embroidered or tonal branding for a premium, understated finish, and keep logos subtle for smart wear.
Quick tip
Bold logos suit casual; tonal suits smart. Browse BOSS polos (/collections/mens-boss-black-polo-shirts).
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a good polo shirt?
Start with the occasion, then choose the fabric and collar to match; pique and a knitted-on collar for classic wear, pima for premium, a performance blend for sport. Get the shoulders and length right, and check for a firm collar and reinforced placket as signs of quality.
What is the most versatile polo colour?
Navy is the most versatile polo colour, working for the office, weekend and events and pairing with almost any trouser or short. White, grey and dark green are strong second choices. Build a core of plain, versatile shades before adding stripes or bright colours.
How many polo shirts should I own?
For most men, three to five polos cover the year; a couple of plain premium polos for smart wear, one or two classic pique polos for casual days, and a performance polo if you play golf or want one for hot weather and sport.