The Best Turtlenecks Frame Your Face Like a Masterpiece
The best turtleneck sweaters for men are a serious bit of knitwear business. No other sweater keeps your neck quite as warm—or eliminates the need for a scarf entirely. But warmth is only half the story. The real power of a turtleneck lies in how it transforms your whole presence.
In fine-gauge merino or cashmere, it channels the polish and sex appeal of Alain Delon or Mick Jagger. In hardy wool, it carries the quiet authority of an old fisherman or a submarine captain who’s seen some things. Every version comes loaded with character, and wearing one means you get to borrow some of that energy—use it wisely.
Sure, some guys still fear the turtleneck (or roll neck, if you’re across the pond). It feels risky, maybe too statement-making. But the return on investment is undeniable: layer it under a sport coat, a work jacket, or a topcoat, and you’re suddenly dressed up without making a big show of it.
And since just about every brand under the sun makes one these days, we’ve done the legwork for you. Below, our favorites of the bunch, from budget buys to heirloom-level investments.
The Best Turtleneck Sweaters for Men, According to GQ
GAP CashSoft Turtleneck Sweater
Uniqlo Cashmere Turtleneck
Stòffa Cashmere Rollneck Sweater
John Smedley Richard Turtleneck
Best Overall Turtleneck Sweater: J Crew 1988 Rollneck Sweater
J.Crew
1988 Rollneck Sweater
So our pick for the best turtleneck sweater is actually a roll neck. First, because the terms are largely interchangeable in terms of their function. Second, because the roll neck’s resurgence makes perfect sense right now. The roll neck sits squarely between ease and polish — durable, slightly rugged, but still refined. As everything gets a little looser and more relaxed, this style hits that sweet spot. You still get most of the neck coverage you crave, just with a looser, less constricting fit that looks great on its own or layered over an Oxford shirt. It also taps into the broader wave of nostalgia — ‘90s prep, Ivy style, those old J.Crew catalogues — sweeping fashion right now. And know that while the striped versions add a little something extra, it comes in plenty of great solid colors, too.
Best Budget Turtleneck Sweater: GAP CashSoft Turtleneck Sweater
GAP
CashSoft Turtleneck Sweater
Everybody in turtlenecks? Why not, the world could use a little more style. We can’t really overstate it: Gap, bless ‘em, is getting back to what it did best in its heyday day, namely making versatile, easy-wearing pieces that don’t break the bank and actually look cool. This turtleneck’s got the right idea — the nicely rib detailed roll neck and a fit that hangs nicely (not too tight) makes it ideal to wear on it’s own or under a light fall jacket. And the brand’s proprietary “CashSoft” fabric gives the whole thing a cashmere feel without the cashmere price tag.
