I’m writing this as we are facing the highest pollen count in Georgia…ever. While that is bad news, the good news is that we are starting the 2-3 month stretch of highs in the 70s and low to no humidity. The PERFECT weather for cotton polos.
I get tech. I have some tech. When the humidity is high, it’s hard to resist tech on the golf course. But cotton polos – especially solid ones – have a much more polished look (like a dress shirt), or can be dressed down to a cool, casual look (like an elevated t-shirt).
Be sure to keep a few of these in your closet:
From Top Left:
1. B. Draddy Liam Polo: These have been my go-to over the last couple of years. I love the way they fit, the front pocket, and the way they age.
2. Criquet Oxford Pique Polo: New to the Criquet lineup, these cotton piques are just what the doctor ordered. Cut just like the Player’s Shirt, it has that texture that looks good tucked with chinos or untucked over Baggies.
3. Ralph Lauren Classic Pique Polo: If you’ve made it to Red Clay Soul, then most likely you grew up with a closet full of these. Undefeated.
4. Tom Beckbe Coastal Polo: Beyond their world-class waxed jackets, Beckbe produces some great shirts – especially these Coastal Polos. They fit a lot like the old Lacoste polos we grew up with and have a similar feel.
5. Peter Millar Crown Crafted Journeyman Polo: The spread collar is absolutely killer.
6. Sid Mashburn Pima Pique Pocket Polo: These have become ultra-popular, especially in my circles. The price is good – they have roughly a 2-3 year shelf life before they turn into weekenders…which is just what the doctor ordered.
7. Johnnie O Coastal Wash Polo: California Cool.
8. Orvis Angler’s Polo: I’ve been wearing these for about five years, and I don’t think I’ve ever tucked one in. They are the perfect complement to a pair of Stand Ups and Rainbows. Cool colors, even cooler fish.
9. Holderness & Bourne Neville Polo: The greatest white polo on the market, by a 3-wood. They look good with everything, especially under a sport coat. I keep one at home and one in my locker. Don’t go without.
What did I miss?
Who makes the best solid navy cotton polo that doesn’t fade? No matter the brand all of mine get dingy after very few washes whereas all other colors in like shirts hold up fine.
The now discontinued (?) lightweight Peter Millar pocket polos are the absolute best casual polo. They have small % of flex material but wear like cotton. Hope they come back otherwise will continue to hoard second hand
My Holderness & Bourne cotton pique polo (98% cotton) has held up very well going into its third summer.
Machine wash delicate, cold water. Hang to dry and then throw in dryer for 5-10 minutes.
Hard water, the dryer, and human sweat (plus anti-perspirant) all lead to fading. Considered wearing a lightweight v-neck undershirt?
The LL Bean polo (if you want to go that route) won’t shrink or fade and they’re 100% cotton. Almost unreal how they don’t shrink or fade (I’m sure they’re coated with something), but they’re sizing is VERY relaxed.
Good list. I recently gave J Press a shot. The standard version wears large and has a distinct 90s slouchy vibe. I actually really like their less expensive Pennant brand version more. It has a great trim fit and holds its shape better. Both have a thicker fabric that is clearly made for Northern summers, but I love the non-pastels as neutrals before it heats up down south.
I love the Sid Mashburns for softness but I find the buttons have a hard time staying put and my chest hairs inevitably pop through the pique. Works great on the weekends and can handle the Atlanta heat, but requires a layer on top at work,
Have yet to meet one that won’t fade. I wash inside out, cold and hang dry. Iron as needed. I have a closet full of RL, they just work for me, 6 ‘4, 200 lbs, Wear an XL regular, I have a couple of old Orvis Polos that are great, faded to perfection.