The 5 best cashmere sweaters for men, tested and reviewed

When you think of the fabrics of some of the most expensive sweaters you’ll find, cashmere ranks pretty high on that list.

Though more factors like quantity of material used and the fabric’s thickness affect the price, 100% cashmere pieces still usually come at a premium price — in fact, they usually retail for over $150 with some costing over $400. This one from Quince, though, is just $60 and it feels just as soft as the pricier alternatives.

Quince’s unique philosophy is what sets the brand apart from others and allows it to price its products at such affordable rates. In essence, it cuts out the middle man, sourcing the fabric and product directly from the factory.

Quince outlined in the product details that the 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere used to craft this sweater was sourced from goats in inner Mongolia. The brand even details where the sweater was produced and what kind of factories crafted the sweater (including their working conditions).

In addition to being ethically sourced and crafted, this affordable cashmere sweater comes in one of the most diverse color ranges I’ve seen to date.

If you prefer a thinner cashmere sweater that won’t leave you sweating buckets in the heated office, this one is just the right middle ground of cozy and breathable.

If you’re looking for a men’s cashmere sweater that strikes the perfect balance of casual and formal, this Buck Mason staple is my top recommendation.

Unlike a standard crewneck sweater, its classic collared neckline adds a bit of interest to an otherwise simple design and allows you to dress it up or down. I’ve paired it with both jeans and trousers and it found that it looked intentional in both configurations.

The three-button placket neckline also comes in handy for men with short necks who need a way to elongate that area for a more relaxed look.

Another way this cashmere sweater polo differs from the rest is in its fabrication. The cashmere used to make this sweater is light and super fine, allowing you to wear it in both the fall and winter months (as a layering piece, of course). If you run cold, you can even wear it year-round.

Shell buttons and ribbing at both the cuffs and hem are just a couple more simple, but thoughtful details that make this premium cashmere piece one that you’ll have for a lifetime.

While the crewneck is, by far, the most popular and common men’s sweater silhouette, the sweater polo is one that doesn’t get as much recognition as it deserves.

It’s much more interesting and adds a more elevated appeal to what could be considered an otherwise basic look. This sweater polo from Suitsupply has a three-button closure and a wide collar, but its softness is what sets it apart from any of the sweaters I’ve tested.

Its softness is fully credited to its 100% cashmere fabrication. While it may sound cliché, this sweater feels like a a cozy, warm hug.

It’s also lightweight enough to wear under a jacket, but is substantial enough to wear on its own in the earlier fall months. It also has a few stylistic touches that just make this a high-end piece you’ll only have to buy once and will reach for every year.

From its mother-of-pearl buttons to its ribbed hem and cuffs, this cashmere polo sweater is an investment piece you’ll be glad you picked up. I definitely am!

Uniqlo is known for being a key destination for essentials and minimally designed pieces, and this cashmere sweater is no different.

It’s neither too thick nor too thin, but strikes a healthy balance between the two with a luster and tension that feels luxe, but not overtly insulated or blanket-like.

While its incredibly diverse color range is enough to marvel at, this sweater’s affordable price point adds to that wow-factor, especially considering that it’s not a cashmere blend, but rather a full, 100% cashmere piece.

For just $100, you get a buttery soft, pure cashmere sweater with a classic fit that’s versatile enough to wear to the office or to brunch.

Here’s how I look at it: If you want to upgrade from merino wool for the colder months, but need to stick to a strict $100 budget, this sweater is one of your best options and proves that cashmere doesn’t isn’t unattainable.

This timeless Uniqlo find and Quince’s cult-favorite Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck prove that you can snag high-quality cashmere without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a specific color that’s not easily found in more standard cashmere sweater ranges, though, this one has Quince beat.

A cashmere sweater is the epitome of effortlessness. Most options don’t have extravagant design elements or patterns to make them stand out since the fabric speaks for itself. However, a little extra flair, when done right, doesn’t hurt.

Take this J.Crew cashmere sweater, for example. Its classic, all-over cable-knit design manages to make a statement without distracting from the timelessness of the sweater itself. If anything, it’s complementary and provides a bit more visual appeal for those who are looking for a cashmere sweater that isn’t a cookie-cutter find.

Since cashmere sweaters are often plain and simple in design, they can sometimes fall flat, especially if the fit is off. This J.Crew option’s cable-knit detailing keeps it from falling flat while still maintaining that versatile aesthetic that pairs well with anything.

In terms of price, it’s definitely worth it, but where this sweater falters a bit is in its fit. It does run a bit small and has more tailored lines that may be a bit restricting for some.

So, if you plan on wearing this with a button-up underneath (as pictured), or prefer a more relaxed fit, size up a bit for a little extra room.