Though easily overlooked, a scarf is an incredibly useful tool when it comes to battling the elements. Even though it may seem like just a flimsy, narrow piece of fabric, it’s not to be forgotten. The scarf covers that difficult-to-protect area around your neck that your winter coat, collar and hat just don’t reach. It’s small, but in the freezing rain, snow or wind — you’ll feel it if your neck is not protected. Let one of these scarves bundle you up and polish your outfit off nicely this fall and winter.
There are so many different ways to wear a scarf. Of course there’s the strictly utilitarian method of layering it underneath a large men’s coat or parka this winter. A scarf also looks great paired with a jean or bomber jacket in fall, before the first snow has fallen but after the temperature has definitely dropped. There are thick, wool scarves designed for warmth, and lighter cashmere styles for fashion. We’ve gathered all of the best options this season below, so you can choose what fits your style and surrounding climate the best.
From preppy to streetwear, puffer to cashmere and affordable to eye-wateringly-luxurious, these are the best men’s scarves to wrap up warm in this winter.
1. Pendleton Unisex Adult Wool Knit Scarf
GREAT PICK
Pendleton makes some of our favorite wool blankets and other warming goods for the winter, so naturally their scarf is one of our favorites. This one is made of 100% Merino wool and comes in four different Pendleton plaid patterns. It’s unisex, will keep you warm in fall and winter and has a price tag that isn’t too exorbitant. It’s dry clean only, so if you’re a washing machine loyalist you might want to consider another pick.
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2. Burberry Check & Giant Check Scarf
BEST VINTAGE MASH-UP
The thing about Burberry’s now so recognizable tartan print is that once it was just another checked tartan belonging to some family of Scotland. Now, it takes on a form that denotes so much more: quality, intelligent design and heritage. The blend of cashmere and merino wool gives it a heavenly softness that warrants its elevated price tag. Plus, this navy spin on their classic pattern brings this pivotal design into the modern era of winter wear.
3. Patagonia Recycled Cashmere Scarf
BEST GREEN CHOICE
If you like having your cake and eating it too, this is the scarf for you. This recycled cashmere scarf weighs lightly on the conscience as it doesn’t compromise on the welfare of animals or the climate but still allows you to indulge in the finery of life. It’s a classic, no-frills design in a cool navy blue which makes it easy to match to outfits. It is soft to the touch and a good insulator, making it a scarf to be cherished as the weather takes a turn.
4. Everlane Cashmere Bandana
BEST SCARF ALTERNATIVE
Not a scarf guy? No problem! This cashmere bandana from Everlane will keep you just as warm without a ton of extra layers. It’s made of 100% cashmere, ties in the back, like a bandana, and comes in three different colors. It’s super soft and comfortable to wear, and can be worn just as well with a leather jacket as it can with a sweater, parka or heavy winter coat.
5. L.L.Bean Adults’ Irish Lambswool Scarf
BEST FOR WRAPPING
This unisex scarf from L.L.Bean has an additional 6″ on it so you can wrap it around and around, bundling up for warmth. It’s made of luxurious Irish lambswool and has been yarn-dyed for a rich, vibrant color. It’s got a fringed edge and comes in six different plaid varieties. It also has a very affordable price tag, so you can stock up on multiple colors for the season.
6. Port Authority Men’s Extra Long Fleece Scarf
MOST AFFORDABLE
This is a no-frills, affordable scarf that’s for keeping you warm, and little else. It’s made of polyester, costs less than $10 and has an anti-pill finish for lasting wear. It comes in five different colors, including this vibrant red, and is perfect for stashing in your car in case of a sudden, unexpected temperature drop.
7. Gap Recycled Cozy Scarf
ECO-FRIENDLY OPTION
This warm, stylish scarf is made from recycled polyester, and has frayed ends and allover prints for extra polish. It’s crafted thin and wide, like a pashmina, so you can layer it however you like, and comes in a whopping nine different colors, so you’ve got many styles to choose from.
8. ACNE Fringed Mélange Wool Scarf
BEST LAST CHRISTMAS AESTHETIC
Because there isn’t much that’s as nostalgic, nor as warm as a sepia-toned, 80s Christmas music video. This scarf will give you that same fuzzy warmth, not only in the feelings and memories it inspires but because of its smooth and snuggly wool material. It will become so beloved, you’ll be reaching for it all year round.
9. Dries Van Noten Merino Wool-Blend Scarf
BEST WOOL
This wool dress scarf from Banana Republic is a solid wardrobe staple that’s perfect for fall and winter, and designed to be worn for formal occasions. It’s 100% wool, and comes in a dark navy color that’ll pair well with suits, flannels, long and waist-length jackets. It’s nicely made while still being affordable, and comes in one universal size.
10. Canada Goose Classic Merino Scarf
LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN
Canada Goose is a winter wear company known for their parkas, but this scarf from them is made of Merino wool and has a lightweight design that won’t weigh you down as you’re bundling up. It’s made from 100% Merino wool and has clean lines that’ll compliment a variety of outerwear options. The knit is double-layered for extra warmth, and it’s got a reverse folded label that shows the brand’s logo no matter how you wear it.
11. Barbour Tartan Lambswool Scarf
BEST HERITAGE BRAND
This wonderful traditional tartan scarf comes in a deep and rich taupe tartan and breathes a sort of comforting neutrality in its color scheme. It is constructed from 100% lambswool making it divinely soft on the skin. This will go just as well with skatewear, streetwear or office wear; it is complimentary and classic.
12. Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit Cashmere Scarf
BEST SPLURGE
Almost $600 for a scarf might seem ridiculous, but this cable-knit design from Ralph Lauren has a chunky construction for staying warm, as well as soft, cashmere materials that are soft and comfortable to wear. It’s made of 100% cashmere, has rib-knit ends and comes in five colors, including Classic Chairman Navy pictured below.
13. TOM FORD Fringed Silk Scarf
BEST FOR FORMALWEAR
Tom Ford is the modern master of luxury, so it’s no surprise that his eponymous label offers a scarf in the most luxurious fabric: silk. This 100% silk scarf is available in either black or silvery-white and it has a fringed detail. It makes a great companion to formalwear.
14. Everlane Cashmere Scarf
AFFORDABLE CASHMERE
This 100% grade-A cashmere from Everlane costs less than $100, making it a very affordable option for the quality. It’s a simple, classic winter staple that’s small enough to wear during fall as well. It comes in three neutral colors, and works just as well underneath a giant coat as it does over a sweater.