The 9 Best Sweaters for Men, Tested by Style Editors

ProsRich, textured fabric looks and feels amazingStrong heritage and timeless style that will never fadeWill retain shape after several wearsCan layer button-downs for preppy vibeLooks great with jeans or trousersI’ve been testing men’s sweaters since 2020, so as you can imagine I’ve worn more than I can count. Polo Ralph Lauren’s cable-knit has consistently risen above the competition in construction, fit, and timeless style. The brand helped cement the cable-knit as an American preppy classic, and that history shows in the sweater itself. The textured braids and patterns give it depth and richness, elevating even the simplest outfit. You can see and feel the heritage in every stitch—the weight, the structure, the classic lines all signal a piece built to last.The relaxed fit is a major win for comfort—it offers extra room in the chest, which is perfect if you’ve got bigger pecs (like me, after a few years of lifting). Even without spandex, it layers beautifully over a button-up without stretching out or losing its shape. During testing, I wore it over a crisp white dress shirt for a dinner party, under a blazer for a Zoom meeting, and casually with joggers on a morning matcha latte run. The fabric feels soft against the skin but maintains structure. It never made me break a sweat, and kept me cozy in high 50-degree temps. I’ve washed mine over six times, and the sweater still looks and fits like new.I also love how it pairs seamlessly with a variety of pants—tailored trousers, jeans, and casual sweats all work. And of course, that unmistakable Ralph Lauren heritage baked in, giving a sense of legacy that many sweaters lack. One thing to keep in mind: it comes with a premium price tag, which might be a barrier, only if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that won’t exude as much style.Read More: Best Chinos for MenFeatures at a GlanceMaterial100% cottonSizesXS—XXLFitRegularColors10Machine washable?YesProsSuper affordable Perfect for everyday wearComes in 20+ colors and argyle patterns (big & tall sizes too)Breathable and soft against the skinConsNot ideal if you want a crewneckAmazon Essentials offers everything from the best men’s basics to sharp sweaters, and this one’s proof that affordable doesn’t mean cheaply made. This V-neck style is breathable in the winter, easy to layer, and feels surprisingly premium for the price. Our editors wore it under blazers and sport coats, and then over a crisp shirt with the collar peeking. (Don’t wear it with a T-shirt unless you’re going for a laid-back look). The regular fit is relaxed–but-not-boxy, and forgiving if you’ve just had a burger.The 100% cotton knit feels soft against the skin with just the right amount of stretch, so there’s no restriction when I raise my arms or reach for my coffee. Given its price, you’d think it would become dingy after a few wears or washes, but that’s not the case. Despite months of wear and multiple wash cycles, it held its shape without fading or pilling. Bonus: it comes in a range of colors and argyle prints, so you can stock up and keep your office fits in rotation.Material100% CottonSizesXS—XXLFitRegularColors20+Machine Washable?YesAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSnug, athletic fit in the softest fabric we've testedMoisture-wicking and four-way stretchPerfect for workouts, casual outings and errandsZipper on the side helps keep belongings secureConsFeels more like a sweatshirt than a sweaterIf outdoor running is part of your winter routine, you should consider Vuori’s Performance Crew. It’s designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. Made from a stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric, it keeps you dry and moves with you, whether you’re running errands or working up a sweat. By the way, the brand’s signature DreamKnit fabric feels like a dream and won’t overheat you when layered over a lightweight t-shirt or tank top. It's by far the smoothest, most buttery-soft fabric we’ve ever tested. With a modern athletic fit, the cut follows the natural shape of your body without being too tight or loose. You still have the freedom of movement while still looking put-together, so it’s perfect for intense workouts and casual wear.Material89% recycled polyester, 11% elastaneSizesXS—3XLFitAthleticColors3Machine Washable?YesProsUnique ribbing along the sides, neckline, and hemSturdy not stiffLooks great with jeans and clean sneakers or trousers and loafersConsMight feel boxy for someIf you’re going to wear a sweater, make sure it’s in a classic color that won’t feel dated after one season. This style comes in a nice red or grey that are bold enough to stand out but not overwhelming that you’ll regret it in photos later. It plays well with dressier trousers for a dinner or intimate gathering. The unique ribbing along the sides, neckline, and hem gives it some nice texture, while the standard fit hits that sweet spot between relaxed and put-together. It might feel a bit boxy if you prefer a more tailored, close-to-the-body look.The merino wool and nylon fabric blend feels sturdy but not stiff—it’s thick enough to keep you warm on chilly mornings but breathable once you’re indoors. One of our testers even wore it on a coffee run and didn’t break a sweat under jacket. It’s got just the right amount of stretch too, so you can move around without feeling like you're trapped in a knit straightjacket. The vibe is rugged but still polished, which means it works just as well with jeans and clean sneakers, as well as with tailored trousers and loafers.Material80% Merino wool, 20% nylonSizesXS—XXLFitStandardColors2Machine-washable?No (dry clean)Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsMaterial feels so soft against the skinSkims the body to show off your physiqueLightweight and easy to pack Available in a host of colors (including limited edition styles)ConsRuns small, so you might have to size upA good cashmere sweater feels like wrapping yourself in a cloud, and Naadam’s version is one our style team can’t get enough of. The first time I pulled it on, I understood why: it’s ridiculously soft—way softer than regular wool so it feels amazing against my skin without any itching. It’s lightweight too, so you don’t overheat when the radiator’s on full blast, but still warm enough for windy commutes.After a few wears, I noticed it never lost its shape and didn’t pill as fast as cheaper cashmere sweaters I’ve tested (a small miracle at this price). Keep in mind: cashmere is delicate, so this one requires more care than cotton or polyester sweaters. I’m also a fan of how many colors they offer, including cobalt and tangerine that really stand out without being loud. For guys with athletic builds, it’s the perfect cut. It skims your frame just right, showing off your shoulders and giving your biceps a little spotlight. Just note: sizes do run small, so if you’re between sizes, go up.Features at a GlanceMaterial100% cashmereSizesXXS—XXLFitClassicColors30+Machine Washable?No (hand wash)ProsAffordable yet still that high-quality feelSuitable for everyday wear in casual and professional spacesMachine-washableProduced with a hint of stretch for range of movementComes in a bunch of colors, ranges up to 3XLConsSizes tend to go pretty quicklyI’ve tested a bunch of budget knits, but this one from Uniqlo punches way above its price tag. The cotton-blend fabric feels soft straight out of the package, and has a tight ribbed construction that keeps its shape after a dozen washes, and somehow still looks brand new. Although it doesn’t have the weight or the luxe feel of higher-end knits, I’ve worn this for months and found no fading, stretching, or weird pilling.The synthetic blend gives it that smooth, premium hand-feel with a bit of stretch, so you can reach, twist, and move without feeling boxed in. I also love how the fit strikes that sweet spot between tailored and relaxed—it skims the body without clinging, which makes it look sharp enough for the office but laid-back enough for Sunday coffee runs. The ribbing on the collar keeps it in shape and adds a subtle texture, providing a durable and neat finish. And since it’s machine washable, you can toss it in with your regular laundry and forget about dry cleaning.Material39% Cotton, 34% Polyester, 27% RayonSizesXXS—3XLFitRegularColors7Machine Washable?YesAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsHigh neck roll offers extra coverageMinimalistic look allows for layering under jackets and suitsStreamlines the body and accentuates your pecsWicks moisture to keep you coolConsNot ideal if you want a crewneckI’ve always loved turtleneck sweaters—they’re dressier and provide more coverage than your standard crewneck. But if you’re on the shorter or leaner side, a full turtleneck can sometimes feel like too much fabric stacked around your neck. Suitsupply’s roll neck solves that problem perfectly. It delivers the same refined look and warmth of a turtleneck, just with less bulk so you don’t need a scarf. I found it especially handy during the freezing winter mornings. The merino wool breathes surprisingly well, so I didn’t overheat when layering it under a blazer or waiting for the train in a muggy subway station.You can skip a trip to the dry cleaners because the fabric is tough enough to handle a spin in the washer and come out looking sharp with zero shrinkage or sagging. Plus, it’s odor-resistant, so I stayed fresh from my morning commute through my evening dinner. What I love the most is the versatility. Thanks to its minimalistic look, I’ve layered it under everything from a bomber jacket for errands to a tailored suit for a fancy holiday party. Whether you’re going for laid-back or dress-to-impress, this turtleneck fits the bill perfectly. The slim fit is clean but not constricting—enough to streamline my upper body without being tight, and yes, it gives the pecs a nice little lift. Guys with bigger chests or arms may have to size up for a comfortable fit.Features at a GlanceMaterial100% WoolSizesS—XXLFitSlimColors6Machine Washable?YesProsThick enough to fight off chilly windsDrapes clean through the shoulders and armsBreathes better than heavy woolFlattering fitConsOn the pricier side, but made with quality constructionThis ribbed crew is one of those pieces that just feels right from the first wear. It’s made from a richly textured cotton rib that gives it some real weight—thicker than your average knit but never stiff or bulky. The texture adds that broken-in look while the classic fit keeps things clean and flattering. It sits close to the body without squeezing you, which makes it great for guys with broader shoulders who want structure, and it gives slimmer builds a sharper, more defined shape. It drapes clean through the shoulders and arms, and has just enough give whether you’re layering it under a jacket or reaching for something on a shelf.What really sets it apart from other sweaters is the feel—it’s got that hearty, hand-knit texture you usually only get from a vintage find, but it wears lighter and breathes better than heavy wool. After its first wash, the ribbing softened up so much we wanted to wear it three days in a row. The look lands somewhere between rugged fisherman and clean-cut. Yeah, it’s not cheap, but the rich construction, flattering fit, and durability make it worth the investment.Material100% CottonSizesXS—XXLFitClassicColors6Machine-washable?YesAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsCan be zipped for dressy vibes or unzipped for casual outingsFisherman rib knit gives it real heft and structureDoesn't feel itchyComes in neutral tones that work for the officeConsRequires hand washing for best careI’ve been wearing this cashmere quarter-zip from Quince for a few weeks now, and it’s one of those sweaters that makes you realize how nice cashmere can actually feel. The fisherman rib knit gives it real heft and structure, so it feels premium the second you pull it on. This one is made from Mongolian cashmere, which has longer, finer fibers, so it's ten times softer and more durable. You’re basically getting that luxury feel for a budget-friendly price point. It has a classic fit but trim enough that it doesn’t bunch up when you sit or layer it under a coat or over a button-down.I wore this during New York City’s shoulder season, and it regulated temperature really well. I never got hot walking to work or felt chilly when the office AC kicked on. The fabric breathes better than most wool sweaters I’ve tested, and it never got that itchy, fuzzy feeling that cashmere can sometimes pick up after a few wears. Plus, the quarter-zip collar gives it versatility, too: zipped up, it looks sharp for the office; unzipped, it leans casual for the weekend. You can choose from a range of easy-to-wear neutral tones; think navy, black, charcoal, which all pair effortlessly with chinos or dark jeans.Features at a GlanceMaterial100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmereSizesS—XXLFitRegularColors6Machine Washable?No (hand wash)As the Style and Reviews Editor for Men's Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.Christian is the Style and Reviews Director at Men's Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping and style content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.