The best rugby shirts belong to a clothing narrative woven from the heritage of sport, the threads of tradition, and the bold strokes of modern fashion. Born from athletic origins, this versatile garment has become a staple in the wardrobes of style-conscious men who value a blend of ruggedness and refinement.
The Best Rugby Shirts
In the search for the best rugby shirt, we’ve scoured brands that stand out for their attention to detail, quality of materials, and distinctive designs. Each brand brings its unique interpretation to this classic piece, infusing it with character and a distinct personality.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch elevates the rugby polo with a luxurious, soft 180g cotton fabric cut into an oversized silhouette that drapes comfortably while maintaining a structured look. The color block design adds a dynamic touch, and the classic collar with a three-button placket anchors the shirt in traditional sportswear aesthetics, making it versatile for a laid-back weekend or a smart-casual event.
American Eagle
American Eagle brings the quintessential sporty collegiate look to life with their polo, crafted from super soft cotton jersey for all-day ease. With a crisp collared neck and bold stripes, this polo is a ‘Real Good’ choice, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. It’s a shirt that goes beyond fashion, promising to better the planet while sharpening the edge of casual sportswear.
Drake’s
Drake’s redefines the rugby shirt, presenting it in a richly knitted cotton that showcases quality and a sensory appeal. This shirt adapts the vintage sportswear silhouette to a more tailored, elegant form, featuring a collar reminiscent of their ‘English Classic’ series, adding a tailored sophistication.
Everlane
Everlane introduces a rugby shirt that harks back to classic designs, updated with organic cotton certified by GOTS. It features a sleek rib-knit collar and secure button placket, with the long sleeves and ribbed cuffs rounding off its traditional appeal. This shirt’s compatibility with various pants styles makes it an adaptable choice for any wardrobe.
GANT
GANT’s Heavy Rugger pays tribute to the legacy of rugby with 100% cotton construction, offering a comfortable fit with prominent stripes, a boxed stitch placket, and a twill collar. The updated design includes an extended back hem, side vents, and ribbed cuffs, providing a relaxed fit with a refined edge, in line with GANT’s ethos of elevated casual style.
H&M
H&M refines the classic rugby shirt with a minimalist design, offering a solid color soft cotton jersey that provides a clean and modern alternative to the traditional striped pattern. This shirt features a subtle collar, concealed button placket, and ribbed cuffs, ensuring a sleek silhouette with just the right detail.
J.Crew
J.Crew reinterprets the storied rugby shirt, blending historical inspiration with its distinct flair, realized in an 11-ounce cotton jersey complete with classic rubber buttons. The enduring design is enhanced by a canvas collar, twill taping, and elbow patches, all in a relaxed fit.
L.L. Bean
L.L. Bean channels the essence of their emblematic rugby shirts into a daily wear sweater that blends ease with an element of luxury through a mix of cotton and a hint of cashmere. This versatile garment transitions effortlessly from active wear to a polished daily essential, featuring classic stripes for enduring appeal.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Polo Ralph Lauren’s iconic rugby shirt reflects the timeless preppy style infused with the brand’s signature sporty elegance. This piece stays true to the rugby tradition with its white point collar, concealed placket, and durable cotton jersey, embodying the robust spirit of the sport while ensuring it remains a staple both on and off the field.
Rowing Blazers
Rowing Blazers pays homage to David Hockney with a heavyweight rugby jersey that’s as much a piece of art as a garment. Handmade in Europe from 100% cotton, this 14 oz. jersey is crafted on vintage looms in a 12-gauge style, boasting unparalleled material quality and craftsmanship that feels just as incredible as it looks.
RSQ
RSQ’s vision for the rugby shirt comes to life in a singular hue, offering a timeless charm suitable for various pairings, from denim to tailored trousers. Its collar and button placket infuse it with an athletic essence, while the long sleeves and relaxed fit cater to cooler weather and the versatility needed for layering.
Sonoma Goods for Life
Sonoma Goods for Life introduces a men’s rugby polo that’s as conscious about the environment as it is keen on style. With a practical button-front closure, vented hem for ease of movement, and long sleeves for added warmth, it blends cotton and polyester for durability and easy care. Plus, it supports more sustainable cotton farming, making this shirt a responsible staple for any wardrobe.
Taylor Stitch
Taylor Stitch celebrates rugby’s storied ruggedness with a shirt combining lasting quality and timeless design. Their 100% organic cotton rendition of the classic rugby shirt maintains the vintage style and soul of the game while introducing a mindful update to suit today’s eco-aware sensibilities.
Todd Snyder
In Todd Snyder’s team-up with Champion, the rugby shirt gets stylishly reworked with soft cotton fleece from Portugal. Staying true to classic form, it comes with time-honored rubber buttons and vents at the side seams, elevated by a contrasting collar that lends a refined edge to the athletic classic.
Wrapping Up in Style
It’s clear that whether for a crisp autumn walk, a casual brunch, or a spirited day out, the right rugby shirt can elevate any ensemble with a touch of sporty refinement. The selections showcased here reflect a range that caters to the traditionalist, the trendsetter, and the eco-warrior alike, each shirt telling its own story.
So, as you button up your choice of the best rugby shirt, you’re donning a legacy that’s just as at home on the field as it is in the heart of modern fashion.
