The best polo shirts for men 2026, rigorously tested by style editors
Over the past four years, I’ve tested over 25 different polos from multiple brands, but Lacoste’s Pique Shirt reigns supreme. For over nine decades, this cotton polo has been a mainstay in the fashion game, blending its tennis roots with everyday style for those who want to perform on the court and look equally great at the office (or happy hour). With its distinctive crocodile-logo and woven fabric, it’s one of the most recognizable polos, seen by the likes of Adrien Brody, Tom Selleck, and even tennis champion Novak Djokovic.
The basic design has a slim fit, cut in the arm area with a straight-but-tailored drape. People with larger stature and biceps may want to size up as it may run smaller. This is not your average polo. Lacoste uses Petite Pique cotton, a specially woven fabric that combines stretch and structure to create a breathable, honeycomb texture that won’t fade after a few wears. Yes, the material is lightweight, but the production cost of this cotton is much higher than your standard cotton, which means the quality is ten times better.
I’ve been wearing this polo since my college days at Howard University, and it still looks as fresh as it ever did. When I wear it, I always feel cool, even when the temperature reaches the 80s. In terms of style, I usually wear it with blue jeans, but will wear it with shorts on hot summer days. You can find it in a number of colors, but this deep wine-red shade creates a luxurious, elegant ambiance that many sports-inspired polos don’t provide. Sure, $100 may seem like a lot for a polo shirt, but consider it money well invested. From its rich heritage and durable construction to its timeless style, Lacoste’s polo deserves a place in your spring-summer wardrobe.
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