The Best Turtlenecks For Men
No man can truly consider his wardrobe complete without at least one top-notch turtleneck. Equal parts elegant and practical, turtlenecks have been an essential fashion staple for decades. Not only do they provide much-needed neck coverage in cold weather, but they also offer a stylishly understated aesthetic that people have continued to gravitate toward despite ever-changing fashion trends. With so many options on the market, finding the right turtleneck for you can feel like a tall order. We've rounded up a few of our favorites to help you find the best fit.
What To Look For
When it comes to turtlenecks, there are a few essential attributes that separate the wheat from the chaff. Any turtleneck worth your money should have high-quality fabric, a desirable fit, and a fashionable collar. With that said, we believe this turtleneck from Lands’ End is the best of the bunch. With a comfortable relaxed fit and soft cotton fabric, this is the kind of high-quality turtleneck that would make a worthy addition to any man’s wardrobe. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a bit warmer, Runcati’s turtleneck sweater should be right up your alley. This sweater features insulative chunky knit fabric that feels cozy and looks fashionable. Read on to find out what we love about the rest of our favorite shirts.
Lands’ End Super-T Turtleneck
Head and shoulders above the rest
One of the best things about turtlenecks is their simplicity. This pick from Lands’ End exudes a stylish minimalist quality that embodies what turtlenecks are all about. This 100% cotton shirt utilizes jersey knit fabric and tasteful cuffs that work together to create a fashionably relaxed fit. The breathable fabric makes this a versatile choice, ideal for layering or wearing on its own. We also appreciate the high-quality fabric construction that tends to stave off pilling, fading, and wrinkles.
Pros:
- Casual, relaxed fit
- Breathable fabric for layering
- Anti-pill fabric
Cons:
- Not the best choice for men looking for a form-fitting turtleneck
Poriff Slim-Fit Turtleneck
Brace yourself
The turtleneck is king when it comes to layering up for low temperatures. The accentuated neck coverage provides much-needed warmth and insulation to keep you feeling cozy when it’s cold. Thanks to its highly mobile cotton-spandex fabric blend, Poriff’s thermal turtleneck is a form-fitting option ideal for layering. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, too, designed to keep you feeling warm without causing you to sweat under your jacket. We also appreciate the fact that Poriff offers this versatile turtleneck in a bevy of vibrant color options.
Pros:
- Available in many colors
- Exceptionally soft fabric
- Lightweight construction
Cons:
- Might be too slim-fitting for some men’s taste
Runcati Cable-Knitted Turtleneck Sweater
Cozy and affordable
If you’re in the market for a thick turtleneck to keep you warm when temperatures drop, this pick from Runcati should definitely pique your interest. The chunky knit fabric and detailed cable stitching create a dense fabric blend that works just as well under a coat as it does on its own. We particularly enjoy the high collar that rides all the way up to the jaw, providing much more neck coverage than many comparable turtlenecks. Not to mention, the fit tends to find a happy medium between relaxed and slim-fitting.
Pros:
- Dense, warm fabric
- Extra-long turtleneck collar
- Its simple aesthetic can complement a wide variety of outfits already in your wardrobe
Cons:
- We wish Runcati offered this sweater in more color options
Kallspin Merino Wool Turtleneck
As warm as it gets
Thanks to its superior softness, mobility, and natural moisture-wicking properties, merino wool is one of the most sought-after sweater fabrics. Kallspin’s turtleneck sweater utilizes a fabric blend primarily comprised of merino wool and polyester, making it soft, insulative, and durable. Unlike slim-fitting alternatives, this turtleneck features a tasteful relaxed fit that accentuates your figure without being overly restrictive. We’re also big fans of the stylish rib-knit collar that feels soft to the touch and tends to keep its shape over time.
Pros:
- Despite its wool-heavy fabric blend, this turtleneck is conveniently machine-washable
- Exceptionally soft and insulative
- Durable and soft fabric
Cons:
- Affordable when compared to similar merino wool turtlenecks
Coofandy Slim-Fit Ribbed Turtleneck
Sleek and suave
If you’re looking for a slim-fitting turtleneck to wear as a base layer or all by itself, this versatile option from Coofandy might be just what the doctor ordered. Coofandy’s turtleneck utilizes a form-fitting fit and rib knit fabric that molds to the shape of your body without feeling overly restrictive. The dense fabric offers insulation and warmth in low temperatures, while the collar provides coverage to keep your neck feeling warm and protected. We also appreciate that Coofandy offers this impressive turtleneck in an inclusive set of sizes and a vibrant selection of colors.
Pros:
- Features anti-shrink fabric
- Slim-fitting construction
- Available in an inclusive array of sizes
Cons:
- The collar might be a bit too short for some people
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a turtleneck and a mock neck sweater?
The only difference between these two sweater cuts is the collar length. Turtlenecks feature a long collar that can ride up all the way to the jaw. Mock necks, on the other hand, are usually cut off at around the midway point of the neck. Due to their similar qualities, these two sweater cuts are often mistaken for one another.
Is a turtleneck a valid replacement for a scarf in low temperatures?
Depending on your tolerance for cold weather and your penchant for layering, a turtleneck could certainly replace a scarf for some folks. If you have a chunky knit turtleneck that provides neck coverage all the way up to the jaw, a scarf could be considered a somewhat redundant addition to the outfit. However, if your turtleneck collar is a bit shorter, a scarf might be more necessary to keep you cozy.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.