Long before I was a style editor, they were my secret weapon. In my early twenties, I realized that a well-cut knit could elevate a look more effortlessly than any blazer or jacket. I’ve worn them through newsroom winters, weekend getaways, and way too many cold subway commutes to count.
Growing up, I’d watch Pharrell Williams turn a simple crewneck into a statement, marvel at Andre 3000’s fearless layering, and admire A$AP Rocky’s ability to make a chunky sweater feel cool. Those moments have stuck with me, teaching me that style isn’t about what you wear but how you wear it. Sweaters became my canvas—and they still are, whether I’m braving the elements or dressing to impress.
Since 2020, the Men’s Health style team and I have tested more than 50 styles—crewnecks, cable knits, turtlenecks—to find the ones that actually deliver. Sweaters are also one of my go-to holiday gifts since they’re practical and available at just about every price point. Ahead, you’ll find our top picks that check every box, whether you’re shopping for yourself or grabbing dad a new knit for the season.
I’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.
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