Polo Shirt Types
A polo shirt is named by its knit, sleeve and how smart or sporty it is built to be. This hub sets out the main polo types across our range, so a product name tells you the character before you see the photo. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Classic and smart
Pique Polo
The classic polo in a textured pique knit.
What defines it
A pique polo uses a waffle-textured cotton knit that holds its shape, resists creasing and gives the traditional polo look.
Who it suits
It suits smart-casual wear from the office to the weekend. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Jersey Polo
A smooth, fine-knit polo with a softer drape.
What defines it
A jersey polo uses a flat, fine jersey knit that feels softer and dressier than pique, with a closer drape to the body.
Who it suits
It suits a refined, dressed-up polo look. Browse Jacob Cohen polos (/collections/mens-jacob-cohen-polos).
Mercerised Polo
A polo with a subtle sheen and smooth handle.
What defines it
A mercerised polo treats the cotton to add lustre, strength and a silky finish for a more luxurious feel.
Who it suits
It suits smarter occasions where you want a polished polo.
Sport and active
Performance Polo
A polo in technical, moisture-wicking fabric.
What defines it
A performance polo uses a synthetic or blended fabric that wicks sweat, stretches and dries fast for active wear.
Who it suits
It suits golf, sport and warm-weather days. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Golf Polo
A performance polo cut for the golf course.
What defines it
A golf polo pairs a stretch performance fabric with an easy, unrestricted fit built for the swing.
Who it suits
It suits the course and active leisure.
Tipped Polo
A polo with contrast stripes on the collar and cuffs.
What defines it
A tipped polo adds fine contrast lines along the collar and sleeve edges for a sporty, retro detail.
Who it suits
It suits a smart-sporty, heritage look. Browse Belstaff polos (/collections/belstaff-polo-shirts).
Casual and relaxed
Long-Sleeve Polo
A polo with full-length sleeves.
What defines it
A long-sleeve polo keeps the collar and placket but extends the sleeves to the wrist for cooler days.
Who it suits
It suits transitional-season smart-casual wear. Browse men's polo shirts (/collections/mens-polo-shirts).
Rugby Polo
A heavier polo with a soft twill collar.
What defines it
A rugby polo uses a thicker fabric, a softer collar and often bold stripes, taking its cue from the rugby jersey.
Who it suits
It suits casual, rugged autumn and winter wear.
Knitted Polo
A polo made on a knitting machine like fine knitwear.
What defines it
A knitted polo is made as a piece of fine-gauge knitwear rather than cut from jersey, giving a soft, textured, elevated feel.
Who it suits
It suits smart-casual outfits that blur polo and knitwear. Browse Gran Sasso polos (/collections/mens-gran-sasso-polo-shirt).
Zip Polo
A polo that fastens with a short zip instead of buttons.
What defines it
A zip polo replaces the buttoned placket with a short zip for a cleaner, more modern neckline.
Who it suits
It suits a contemporary, minimal polo look.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a pique and jersey polo?
A pique polo uses a textured, waffle-like knit that holds its shape and resists creasing, giving the classic polo look. A jersey polo uses a smooth, fine knit that feels softer and drapes closer to the body, which reads a little dressier.
What is a tipped polo?
A tipped polo has fine contrast stripes along the edges of the collar and sleeve cuffs. The detail, called tipping, adds a sporty, heritage touch and is a neat way to introduce a second colour without a bold pattern.
What is the most versatile polo to own?
A classic pique polo in a plain, versatile colour such as navy is the most useful single polo. It works for smart-casual office days, the weekend and warm-weather events, and it pairs with chinos, jeans or shorts.