These Knit Polo Shirts Are the Easiest Way to Look and Feel Cool This Summer

best knit polos
20 Knit Polo Shirts Worth Buying NowProduct Shot Image


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WE'LL MAKE this quick. Knitted polo shirts are back in style. The best knit polo shirts have (of course) sweater-styling knitting that make them cozier, and more vibrant than your typical collared shirt. Most of these knits have retro and decorative patterns that provide an interesting texture, are breathable, and soft to the touch. That's why they're one of our go-to summer shirts.

The best knitted polos are made of wool, cotton, or linen, with the occasional cashmere or silk. Button options range from a full open front like a dress shirt, to an open neck with no buttons at all. However, most options feature the standard two or three button polo neck. When you’re looking for an alternative to a T-shirt or a button-down shirt, a knitted polo is the way to go. So we rounded up the best options out there to class up your shorts and chill out your suits all summer long.

Best Camp Collar Shirts | Best Short Sleeve Shirts | Best Polo Shirts | Best Men's Clothing Brands

Avalon Knit Polo

With a silky texture and elastic cuffed sleeves and body, this knitted polo from Buck Mason will elevate your look for any occasion. It is the perfect replacement for your old pique polos shirts. Rock it to a wedding with a summer suit or to the beach with some swim trunks.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.buckmason.com%2Fproducts%2Fcaviar-avalon-knit-polo&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Avalon Knit Polo</p><p>$118.00</p><p>buckmason.com</p>

Cashmere Short-Sleeve Sweater

For those brisk summer nights, J.Crew offers a cashmere knitted polo with a touch of warmth and a heap of swagger. It comes in five solid color options and five patterns, but the pink and navy stripe stands out in the best way. It may work just fine in the office, but it begs to be at a rooftop party.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcrew.com%2Fm%2FMP806%3FcolorProductCode%3DBN481%26fit%3DClassic%26display%3Dall%26color_name%3Dnavy-sweet-dahlia-strip&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Cashmere Short-Sleeve Sweater</p><p>$87.99</p><p>jcrew.com</p>

Waffle Short Sleeve Camp Shirt

Using waffle knit fabric to make a shirt was a brilliant move. OAS made a full button down knitted polo so comfy you could fall sleep in it. We recommend that you show it off though.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bloomingdales.com%2Fshop%2Fproduct%2Foas-waffle-short-sleeve-camp-shirt%3FID%3D4679527&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Waffle Short Sleeve Camp Shirt</p><p>$130.00</p><p>bloomingdales.com</p>

Lynton Skipper Polo Shirt

Essentially, knitted polos are warm weather sweaters with a collar. Peregrine leaned into this fact by using raglan sleeves and a micro birdseye pattern for the Lyton Skipper polo. The nautical look goes well with white denim or pretty much any color chinos.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fhuckberry.com%2Fstore%2Fperegrine%2Fcategory%2Fp%2F72451-lynton-skipper-polo-shirt&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Lynton Skipper Polo Shirt</p><p>$135.00</p><p>huckberry.com</p>

Tile Open-Knit Cabana Polo

Some shirts were just born to be worn while sipping a coconut cocktail on a tropical beach. This is one of them. Knitted polos tend to be understated, but Todd Snyder went in the opposite direction here and we should all thank him for it.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.toddsnyder.com%2Fproducts%2Ftile-open-knit-cabana-shirtmulti&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Tile Open-Knit Cabana Polo</p><p>$248.00</p><p>toddsnyder.com</p>

Manbir Knit Polo

Tired or wearing t-shirts all the time? Try this polo built from a feather weight 100% cotton knit. Umber & Ochre used a natural plant based dye that will create a warm faded texture with time.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fhuckberry.com%2Fstore%2Fumber-ochre%2Fcategory%2Fp%2F79063-manbir-knit-polo&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Manbir Knit Polo</p><p>$110.00</p><p>huckberry.com</p>

Felix Slim Fit Rib V-Neck Polo

Nothing against the venerable plain white button down shirt, but it can feel stale sometimes. The perfect summer alternative is this v-neck polo from Reiss. You've still got solid white with a collar, but in a refreshing new package that looks equally great under a suit.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7362023&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Felix Slim Fit Rib V-Neck Polo</p><p>$175.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p>

Crochet Button-Through Sweater Polo

You can have a lot of fun with the knitted part of the polos. Case in point: this loose, lacy knit from Abercrombie with a full button front and a camp collar. Who needs a tank top when you've got this much ventilation?

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.abercrombie.com%2Fshop%2Fus%2Fp%2Fcrochet-button-through-sweater-polo-52618825&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Crochet Button-Through Sweater Polo</p><p>$80.00</p><p>abercrombie.com</p>

Merino Polo Sweater

When it gets chillier, go with a long sleeve knitted polo that is closer to a sweater with a collar. Charles Tyrwhitt nails the simple elegance of the design. It could look too stuffy if it wasn't cut to fit perfectly.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.charlestyrwhitt.com%2Fus%2Fmerino-polo-sweater---navy%2FKNJ0394NAV.html%3Fpf%3Dpdp_colour_swatch&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Merino Polo Sweater</p><p>$99.00</p><p>charlestyrwhitt.com</p>

Pablo Cuban Shirt

Using snaps instead of buttons on this knit polo was a clever touch by Percival. It is a 1950s style that fits in with the boxy cut and oversized chest pocket. The ribbed cotton material is extra stretchy without adding any elastic. No wonder this brand is a go-to knnited polo shirt for The Rock.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.percivalclo.com%2Fproducts%2Fpablo-cuban-knit-forest&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Pablo Cuban Shirt</p><p>£83.00</p><p>percivalclo.com</p>

Greyson Sweater Polo

Knitted polos are retro to begin with, but Marine Layer took it three steps further with this design. It looks like it was pulled from Ashton Kutcher's wardrobe on That 70s Show. We can't promise you'll look as cool as him in it, but you'll be close.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fhuckberry.com%2Fstore%2Fmarine-layer%2Fcategory%2Fp%2F81977-greyson-sweater-polo&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Greyson Sweater Polo</p><p>$108.00</p><p>huckberry.com</p>

Cotton Textured Knit Polo

If you're a big fan of the pique cotton used for most polos, then this is a perfect transition into knit polos. The tight cotton knit used by Onia gives a similar feel to pique but with more breathability. Plus, the rubgy stripe design is a polo shirt classic.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saksfifthavenue.com%2Fproduct%2Fonia-cotton-textured-knit-polo-0400018938127.html%3Fdwvar_0400018938127_color%3DDENIM%2BWHITE&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Cotton Textured Knit Polo</p><p>$120.00</p><p>Saks Fifth Ave</p>

The Dominica Crochet Shirt

Hearing "crochet" may illicit memories of that blanket your grandmother made you, but trust us when we say it makes a damn fine shirt too. Dandy Del Mar typifies a Mediterranean beach resort with its crochet knit polo.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdandydelmar.com%2Fcollections%2Fmens-leisure-wear%2Fproducts%2Fthe-dominica-crochet-shirt-burnt-sienna-stripe%3Fvariant%3D40518834061397&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>The Dominica Crochet Shirt</p><p>$169.00</p><p>dandydelmar.com</p>

Luxury-Touch Polo Shirt

Banana Republic created a fun alternative to a short sleeve button down here. The ultra soft texture and super subtle piping details land this knitted polo in the "soft luxury" trend that's all the rage.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbananarepublic.gap.com%2Fbrowse%2Fproduct.do%3Fpid%3D623756&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Luxury-Touch Polo Shirt</p><p>$80.00</p><p>bananarepublic.gap.com</p>

Checkerboard Button Front Cotton Polo

Sure, plenty of menswear brands use check board patterns. But none have claimed the texture quite like Vans. This knitted polo gives the Southern California brand's signature beachside skater vibe.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7326044&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Checkerboard Button Front Cotton Polo</p><p>$75.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p>

Bruno Stripe

Olebar Brown used a knit as loose as a retro basketball jersey and it breathes just as well. That's one way to beat the summer heat.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.orlebarbrown.com%2Fus%2Fmen%2Fclothing%2Fpolo-shirts%2Fbruno-stripe%2F276999.html%3Fdwvar_276999_color%3D4538&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Bruno Stripe</p><p>$445.00</p><p>orlebarbrown.com</p>

Jacquard-Knit Cotton Polo Shirt

From Mr. Porter's in-house brand, comes this polo version of a chunky knit sweater, slouchy fit included. You get all the cozy vibes of your favorite fisherman sweater in an airy loose knit cotton with short sleeves.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mrporter.com%2Fen-us%2Fmens%2Fproduct%2Fmr-p%2Fclothing%2Fshort-sleeve-polo-shirts%2Fjacquard-knit-cotton-polo-shirt%2F1647597307256460&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Jacquard-Knit Cotton Polo Shirt</p><p>$355.00</p><p>mrporter.com</p>

Ripple Beach Polo Shirt

Wellen explains that the intricate knit pattern on this polo was inspired by ocean waves. Fitting then, that this is a perfect no-brainer shirt to throw on for all your summer activities, coastal or otherwise.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fhuckberry.com%2Fstore%2Fwellen%2Fcategory%2Fp%2F76680-ripple-beach-polo&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Ripple Beach Polo Shirt</p><p>$88.00</p><p>huckberry.com</p>

Hawthorn Striped Waffle-Knit Polo Shirt

Oliver Spencer built their Hawthorn Striped knit polo to fit like an open neck, but he put a single button with a loop just incase you want to close it. The waffle knit fabric is ultra soft and breathable.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mrporter.com%2Fen-us%2Fmens%2Fproduct%2Foliver-spencer%2Fclothing%2Fshort-sleeve-polo-shirts%2Fhawthorn-striped-waffle-knit-stretch-cotton-and-modal-blend-polo-shirt%2F1647597307683231&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Hawthorn Striped Waffle-Knit Polo Shirt</p><p>$195.00</p><p>mrporter.com</p>

Optimist Polo Shirt

You can just picture this exact polo being worn at a backyard bbq by the most stylish dad in the neighborhood at some point in 1962. Wales Bonner nailed the retro vibe of the knitted polo shirt.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shopbop.com%2Foptimist-polo-shirt-wales-bonner%2Fvp%2Fv%3D1%2F1502462569.htm&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.menshealth.com%2Fstyle%2Fg43909526%2Fbest-knitted-polo-shirts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Optimist Polo Shirt</p><p>$375.00</p><p>shopbop.com</p>

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