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Esquire

23 Best Mens T-Shirt Brands of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From your favorite undershirt to the ones you can rock with a suit.

By

We're living in unprecedented times for the T-shirt. The basic tee, once indelibly tied to the counterculture courtesy of on-screen badasses like Brando and Dean, is now so mainstream it's downright innocuous. You could even say the T-shirt has become the de facto building block of the everyday outfit, long ago replacing a stuffier item like the collared shirt, let alone (checks notes) the suit. The best brands understand this, which means there have never been more options to choose from. And while we're ever thankful for the variety, it can sure get a little overwhelming.

We sifted through the nearly endless supply of T-shirts available now to pick out the 23 brands responsible for our favorites, with the recommendation that, if you happen to find a style you dig, you stock up on it—and fast. From tees with a cropped and boxy cut, to ones that are longer and trim across the body, to still others that cling to your torso in exactly the way you want them to, we cover 'em all. If you're looking for an ultra-sturdy option, one made of super-soft cotton, something you could work out in, or a T-shirt studiously crafted from some of the most sustainable materials on the planet, we have those, too.

Scroll down to find the best T-shirt brand for you, and then wear yours with every single piece in your closet.

Best T-Shirt Brand for Curved Hems

Buck Mason

Buck Mason
Pros
  • Durable fabric
  • Flatteringly boxy
Cons
  • On the pricier side

Buck Mason's boxy, heavyweight tees look better roughed up, so no need to treat 'em gently. It helps that the fabric is heavy, and durable, too. Personally, I love wearing one of these with just about anything—jeans, chinos, sneakers, dress shoes. It all works.

Material220 GSM American-Grown Supima Cotton Jersey
FitBoxy
Colors6
SizesXS-2XL
Best T-Shirt Brand for Value Packs

Hanes

On Sale
Hanes
Pros
  • Unbeatable price
  • Ridiculously comfortable
Cons
  • Shorter hem isn't ideal for longer torsos

An oldie but goodie, Hanes's value packs elevate a weekend essential to the rarefied realm of an everyday staple. In fact, we love these tees so much, we endorsed them.

One reviewer writes: "Right from the start, the quality of the fabric stood out. The cotton is noticeably thick, which I appreciate because it feels like it can withstand the wear and tear of daily life. The comfort level is exactly what you would hope for in a casual tee—soft on the skin with a fit that feels tailored but not tight."

Material100% Cotton
FitBoxy
Colors11
SizesS-6XL
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Best Affordable Fashion-Favorite T-Shirt Brand

Uniqlo

Uniqlo
Pros
  • Durable and soft
  • Fits true to size
Cons
  • White is slightly sheer

Without question, Uniqlo is one of the best places to snag any number of elevated essentials. The Japanese retailer's perfectly beefy T-shirts are a favorite in the Esquire offices and among average Joes looking to stock up on quality tees.

One reviewer writes: "I have sensitive skin and this Supima cotton material is super comfortable on me. After trying it on the first time I just couldn’t go back wearing other T-shirts! And the fitting and colors are very nice!"

Material100% Cotton Jersey
FitRelaxed
Colors12
Sizes2XS-3XL
Softest Affordable T-Shirt Brand

Alternative

On Sale
Alternative
Pros
  • Soft, lightweight fabric
  • Great price
Cons
  • Some buyers find the fabric too thin

For years now, Alternative's been churning out some of the softest tees in the business. (A subtle slub only adds to the appeal.) Our editors love these because they're classic, timeless, and affordable, so whether you snag one to wear alone or a couple to rotate for layering, you're in good hands.

One reviewer writes: "Purchased three of these shirts (different colors) during Amazon Prime Day. Pleasantly surprised to find good quality material, good workmanship, and very good fit. A real value at the regular price."

Material50% Ring Spun Cotton, 50% Polyester
FitClassic
Colors8
SizesXS-3XL
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Best Cult-Classic T-Shirt Brand

Comfort Colors

On Sale
Comfort Colors
Pros
  • Pre-washed, soft feel
  • Plenty of color options
Cons
  • Runs large

You know when you wear a T-shirt so soft that you start looking for the tag to see what it's made of? Yeah, that's what this'll do for you. For more than four decades, Comfort Colors has been refining its technique, resulting in T-shirts that live up to the brand's name. It's no wonder the label has a large and devoted following.

One reviewer writes: "I need durable shirts for my job and this one takes the cake. The fabric is thick and worth the price. The colors go with everything and are just nice to wear."

Material100% Cotton
FitClassic
Colors31
SizesS-4XL
Best T-Shirt Brand for Organic Cotton

Everlane

Everlane
Now 69% Off
Pros
  • Organic cotton gets softer over time
  • Durable fabric
Cons
  • Runs slim

Pro tip, from somebody who can't ever be bothered to take out a steamer: Heavier-weight tees, like the ones made by Everlane, tend to wrinkle less and hold their shape better in the long run. So if you want an investment tee you aren't going to need to throw out after a handful of washes, this is the one for you.

One reviewer writes: "Great fit, relaxing feel, comfortable fabric. I am a tall broad size guy and the XXL fits nice and looks good."

Material 100% Organic Cotton
FitClassic
Colors4
SizesXS-2XL
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Best T-Shirt Brand for Slim Cuts

Kotn

Kotn
Pros
  • Versatile AF
  • Not too thick, not too thin
Cons
  • Buyers report its slightly sheer

Kotn's essential crew is the rare wardrobe staple actually worthy of the moniker. Cut slim (but not, y'know, skintight) and made of a durable midweight cotton, it's a tee you'll be able to wear day in and day out for years to come. Our editors love how easy it is to dress up or down.

One reviewer writes: "The fit of the tee is perfect for me. I enjoy its summer versatility coupled with top quality cotton and above standard craftsmanship."

Material100% Cotton Jersey
FitClassic
Colors6
Sizes2XS-3XL
Best T-Shirt Brand for Two-Packs

Amazon Essentials

Amazon Essentials
Now 27% Off
Pros
  • Tagless design for comfort
  • Ribbed neck trim
Cons
  • Buyers report it isn't as slim-fitting as expected

When Amazon introduced its private-label business, it took a slow and steady approach, gathering as much consumer feedback as possible to offer styles that were up to snuff. The plan worked, and the rave reviews that Amazon Essentials receives is proof. Personally, I love these tees for everything from layering to wearing solo—stocking up is made all-too easy when the price is that good.

One reviewer writes: "They're comfortable, stylish, and budget-friendly, making them an unbeatable combo."

Material100% Cotton
FitSlim
Colors1
SizesS
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Most Comfortable T-Shirt Brand

Standard Issue

Standard Issue
Pros
  • Pre-shrunk to retain shape
  • Heavyweight design
Cons
  • Logo isn't subtle

The T-shirt brand that'd make Brando proud. And when tees come in a pack, developing the basics of your wardrobe becomes oh so easy. Our editors love these because they're simple, sleek, and soft as hell.

One reviewer writes: "These tees fit excellent. I was in the market for a perfect fitting basic and I've found it!"

Material100% Ring Spun Cotton
FitClassic
ColorsBlack
SizesXS-2XL
Best Affordable Heavyweight T-Shirt Brand

Carhartt

Carhartt
Pros
  • Stain-release finish
  • Moisture-wicking
Cons
  • Large pocket and logo isn't for everybody

At this point, it goes without saying that anything Carhartt touches will probably (read: definitely) outlast whatever else is in your closet, the label's tees very much included. We love this brand for soft, cozy heavyweight tees that make perfect streetwear pieces, too.

One reviewer writes: "Great quality, can wear with different things, breathable as well. Would recommend!"

Material100% Cotton
FitClassic
Colors10
SizesS-4XL
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Softest Luxury T-Shirt Brand

James Perse

James Perse
Pros
  • Ribbed trims
  • Stretchy fabric
Cons
  • Pricey

A soft, cotton-jersey tee perfectly encapsulates James Perse's particular brand of West Coast cool. This is the kind of quietly luxurious basic that seamlessly elevates your wardrobe. Our editors especially love this tee because it makes something as simple as a basic feel like a luxurious garment.

Material100% Cotton
FitClassic
Colors5
SizesS-2XL
Best T-Shirt Brand for Garment Dyes

J.Crew

On Sale
J.Crew
Pros
  • Pre-washed look and feel
  • Fits true to size
Cons
  • Limited color options

From winter coats to suits to socks, J.Crew carries it all. This, of course, includes some of the best tees, especially this one, made of organic cotton and recycled fibers, that's broken in for a maximum flex.

One reviewer writes: "Best T-shirt ever. Comfortable from day one. Versatile—can be worn with jeans or shorts for casual look...or under a button down for blazer for dressier. Colors are rich and don't fade. True to size. They do not stretch after wash/wears. Highly recommend!"

MaterialCotton
FitRelaxed
Colors2
SizesXS-2XL
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Most Dependable T-Shirt Brand

Lululemon

Lululemon
Pros
  • Anti-stink technology
  • Abrasion-resistant
Cons
  • Limited color options

This is an aptly named shirt—the Fundamental tee—from the always-dependable Lululemon. With moisture-wicking tech and a stretchiness you'll love, this will surely come to be your favorite workout pal.

One reviewer writes: "Gotta be the favorite T-shirt from Lululemon. Wrinkle-resistant, dries fast, lightweight and easy to wear with anything."

Material40% Pima Cotton, 37% Nylon, 13% Tencel lyocell, 10% Lycra Elastane
FitAthletic
Colors3
SizesXS-5XL
Best Streetwear T-Shirt Brand

Los Angeles Apparel

Los Angeles Apparel
Pros
  • Thick, durable fabric
  • Plenty of color options
Cons
  • Runs large

For the cool guy, a basic tee from Los Angeles Apparel is somehow stylish, not boring. Plus, the midweight fabric of this tee is perfect for any pair of pants you own. Talk about understated.

Material100% Cotton
FitRelaxed
Colors58
SizesXS-2XL
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OG Designer T-Shirt Brand

Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein
Pros
  • Great price
  • Durable
Cons
  • Fabric is thin

Because no list of everyday essentials of any kind would be complete without mention of the brand that made designer basics a bona fide thing. As far as white tees go, this is a personal favorite of mine—CK's fabric unbelievably soft and stretchy, and no matter how many times you throw this shirt in the washer, it insists on keeping its shape.

One reviewer writes: "These are the only undershirts I wear. I also wear them as a casual tee. Fit is great even after washing. Doesn’t shrink in weird ways."

Material100% Cotton
FitClassic
ColorsWhite
SizesS-XL
Best Vintage-Inspired T-Shirt Brand

Forty Five

Forty Five
Now 17% Off
Pros
  • Pre-washed look and feel
  • Modern fit
Cons
  • Fabric is thin

Forty Five, named after the famous vinyl records, offers some of the most relaxed tees around. And like the 45 rpm, its Supima crew tee is made to be played over and over again.

One reviewer writes: "Now own four of these shirts. Regularly find them to be my immediate go-to T-shirt."

Material100% Cotton
FitClassic
Colors11
SizesXS-3XL
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Best Moisture-Wicking T-Shirt Brand

Vuori

Vuori
Pros
  • Four-way stretch
  • Moisture-wicking
Cons
  • Performance fabric is hard to wear outside of workouts

From the moisture-wicking tech fabric to the flattering fit of its signature tee, called the Strato, it's no wonder why Vuori is one of our favorite athleisure brands of all time.

Material96% Polyester, 4% Elastane
FitAthletic
Colors11
Sizes2XS-3XL
Best Luxe Cotton T-Shirt Brand

Theory

Theory
Pros
  • Durable stitching
  • Unbelievably soft
Cons
  • Runs slim

Nothing is better than a soft tee. Using luxe cotton jersey, Theory makes a staple piece feel like a luxury. I'm a fan of tees that feel like the kind of fabric you'd want in bed sheet, and this is definitely that—soft enough to sleep in.

One reviewer writes: "Fabulous material, color, feel, and fit! This is not a relaxed fit tee, but a perfect 'trim' fit."

Material100% Cotton
FitClassic
Colors9
SizesXS-2XL
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Best Antimicrobial T-Shirt Brand

Mack Weldon

Mack Weldon
Pros
  • Anti-odor fabric
  • Recovery collar
Cons
  • On the pricier side

Mack Weldon, maker of some of the mightiest sweatpants around, also has an ultra-soft, antimicrobial shirt named the Silver that fits the bill.

One reviewer writes: "Sleek shirt. Slimming fit."

Material85% Supima Cotton / 10% Ionic+™️ Polyester / 5% Lycra
FitSlim
Colors4
SizesS-2XL
Best Odor-Free T-Shirt Brand

Proof

Proof
Pros
  • UPF 30+
  • Moisture-wicking and anti-odor
  • Regulates temperature
Cons
  • Expensive

It's called the 72-Hour, and as the name suggests, this tee was made to be odor-free and keep its shape for three whole days of wear, even in adverse conditions. And it's passed the test several times over.

One reviewer writes: "THIS IS MY NEW GO-TO SHIRT. It’s almost all I wear, as it’s ruined cotton for me. The moisture-wicking and thermoregulating properties are amazing, and it feels so, so light (and comfortable)."

Material87% 16.5 Micron Merino Wool, 13% Nylon
FitSlim
Colors12
SizesXS-3XL
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