The men’s quarter zip sweater has slipped quietly back into the spotlight. Why? Largely because it solves a problem modern wardrobes keep circling. It is relaxed but not sloppy, sporty without feeling like gym gear and smart enough to step into an office with the right pair of tailored trousers. Factor in the ongoing infatuation with anything that slots into the 'quiet luxury' aesthetic and you have a recipe for a success.
As menswear sways between structured outfits and looser, comfort driven shapes, the quarter zip sits neatly in the middle. It gives simple minimalist outfits a bit of direction, sharpens the neckline and works across a surprising range of looks. The resurgence feels less like a trend and more like the rediscovery of a classic piece that was hiding in plain sight.
How to choose a men's quarter zip sweater
Fabric is the starting point. Merino and cashmere blends bring softness and drape, while cotton leans sportier and holds its shape. Technical fabrics offer stretch and weather resistance if your lifestyle demands something more active.
Fit depends on how you plan to wear it. A trim silhouette is tidy under a big coat, while a slightly roomier cut fits a more relaxed cut of legwear. Pay attention to the zip itself, because details matter. Metal pulls look classic and grown-up, while tonal versions push the knit into quiet sportswear territory. Think block neutrals to keep it versatile, or go for something bold and stripy to bring some colour to the table.
The best brands for men's quarter zip sweaters
Artknit Studios
Artknit Studios takes a fibre first approach, leaning on Italian mills and small scale production. Its quarter zips reflect that mindset, focusing on natural yarns and restrained, modern detailing. For anyone who values transparency and slow manufacturing, Artknit offers a thoughtful route into the style.
Luca Faloni
Italian craftsmanship is central to Luca Faloni. The brand’s emphasis on luxury fibres and classic colour palettes gives its quarter zips a polished, grown up feel. They sit comfortably in a wardrobe built around dependable staples and pieces designed to last.
ASKET
ASKET works with a clear brief: honest fabrics, accountable production and simple design. Its quarter zips follow suit, prioritising organic fibres and a clean silhouette. They land well for people who want modern essentials without frills or fuss.
Sealskinz
Performance is the backbone of Sealskinz. With a history in weather resistant gear, the brand naturally gravitates toward practical, hard wearing quarter zips. They suit active days, unpredictable commutes or anyone who prefers a functional interpretation of the style.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo keeps things democratic. Its quarter zips rely on dependable fabrics and easy fits, which makes them an accessible entry point for most wardrobes. Because the brand iterates rather than reinvents, its take on the style always feels familiar and straightforward to wear.
Sunspel
Sunspel’s heritage in premium basics gives its quarter zips a refined, almost quiet character. Soft fabrics, subtle finishing and an emphasis on longevity make the brand a solid choice for those who want something understated that still feels considered.
Drake’s
Rooted in British tailoring and classic menswear, Drake’s brings a relaxed formality to its knitwear. A Drake’s quarter zip sits naturally alongside Oxford shirts, chore jackets and the rest of a traditional yet modern wardrobe. It strikes a pleasant balance between casual and refined.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Polo Ralph Lauren is closely tied to the preppy quarter zip silhouette. Its long history in American sportswear means the brand understands the appeal of a knit that feels both collegiate and versatile. For many people, Polo remains the reference point for the style.
Norse Projects
Norse Projects blends Scandinavian clarity with a hint of outdoor influence and streetwear sensibilities. The result is a contemporary take on the quarter zip that often plays with texture, muted colours and technical blends. Ideal for anyone who gravitates toward functional minimalism.
John Smedley
With centuries of knitting expertise, John Smedley brings a level of precision few can match. Its fine-gauge quarter zips are lightweight, neatly constructed and built with longevity in mind. They offer a refined alternative to chunkier interpretations of the style.
How to style a men’s quarter zip sweater
The simplest move is to treat it like a smarter sweatshirt. A plain tee underneath, well cut jeans and clean trainers give you an easy, everyday combination. To push it into something sharper, pair it with tailored trousers or pressed chinos and keep the zip slightly open to frame the neckline.
Quarter zips also work well as a mid layer. Under a blazer, they soften the formality. Under a technical jacket, they introduce a bit of structure. If you are leaning into wider trousers, choose a quarter zip with a touch more volume so the proportions stay balanced. The key is not to overthink it. A quarter zip sits comfortably with most wardrobes. The trick is choosing the fabric and fit that best reflect how you actually dress.
Next up: Meet the menswear brands nailing quiet luxury.
