Johnnie-O Makes the Perfect Cotton Polo

Each week, we’re going to feature one of our favorite golf style pieces that is made from natural materials. Cotton, wool, cashmere, silk — these are our heroes. This time we’re taking a closer look at the Original 4-Button 100% Cotton Polo from Johnnie-O.

When John O'Donnell started Johnnie-O twenty years ago, his first product was the Original 4-Button 100% Cotton Polo. To commemorate two decades of business, the brand relaunched the exact same polo for a limited time and, in my opinion, it’s a must-cop.

The shirt comes in three colors, each of which are absolute bangers for summer golf. My preference is the Cobble Blue colorway, but you can’t go wrong with any of them. However, the colors aren’t the only reason it’s great for summer.

The four-button design is versatile and easy to adapt to your personal style, especially when the sun is out. If you love showing some chest, unbutton all the buttons a la Keith Mitchell. If you prefer a buttoned up look (pun kind of intended?), fasten three or four of the buttons and you’ve immediately classed the polo up for rounds at the country club.

The finer details are all there, too. A pocket and the Johnnie-O surfer logo adorn the left chest, adding two more classic details to what is already an iconic silhouette. A split hem makes the shirt easy to wear untucked and adds freedom of movement, which we know you’ll be thankful for when you start swingin’.

As for fit, we couldn’t ask for any better. It’s not too long, not too short, the sleeves hit at the exact right spot just above the elbow and the cut is relaxed but not oversized, meaning it’ll be easy to style for dressier occasions and sweltering summer days on the course.

Finally, we have to talk cotton. Made from 100% cotton, a rarity these days, the polo is designed to get better with each and every wash. It feels excellent upon first wear, but this thing is made for the long haul, getting softer and comfier over time.

It seems like polos are a dime a dozen in golf, but sometimes, one stands out from the crowd. This is that outlier — the polo that will make you want to ditch all your old ones.