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As the temperature continues to drop, it’s time to bust out all the sweaters and winter jackets from the back of your closet, dig out your scarves, lace up your chunkiest boots, and put on your favorite flannel. Wait, you don’t have a favorite? Well, that needs rectifying immediately. Take a look through our picks for the best flannel shirts for men and get ready to fall in love with something comfy.
How to choose a flannel shirt
Let’s start with a little history lesson. “Flannel has been around since the 16th Century and has morphed over time,” says Patrick Burch, co-owner of Cave + Post Trading Co. men’s boutique. “Many people think of flannel as the same as ‘plaid,’ but that just isn’t the case—it’s typically a dense, woven cotton fabric that is brushed on one side or both to ‘raise’ the fabric slightly. It’s often seen in plaid designs, but not always—there are solid color flannels as well.”
As to what to look for, consider the following.
Occasion
Roger LaGrone, founder of Alexander Noel, advises choosing a flannel shirt based on where you’re planning to wear it. “Occasion is a good guiding point for deciding on the thickness of the flannel,” he says. “Some will be lined with either fur, fleece or another material, while others will be made of more flimsy cotton material. Each can be good for various uses. Some may even have a hood sewn inside, making it a practical and casual piece of outerwear.”
Weight
“Flannels are meant to be an essential piece in your fall/winter wardrobe and should age beautifully with you,” says Burch. “Because of that, a good flannel should have some density and weight. Flannel shirts can be worn as a standalone piece, but often the weight of a good flannel will flirt with being an overshirt or ‘shacket.’”
Material
“The more material the flannel uses, the higher the price point,” warns LaGrone. “Additionally, if it uses unique materials such as real animal fur to line it, it will likely cost more.”
Our top picks for the best flannel shirts for men
Best budget flannel shirt: Legendary Whitetails Men's Buck Camp Flannel Plaid Shirt
If your fall plans are more “rolling around in leaves” than “looking swanky in high-end restaurants,” maybe spend a little less on the flannel. “Amazon is great for basics, including traditional flannels,” says LaGrone. “This option from Legendary Whitetails is 100% cotton, comes in over 30 colorways, and has thousands of five-star reviews. Most notably, the price tag only runs you about $25, making it an affordable option to get the classic flannel weight, style, and comfort.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-5XL
- Material: 100% cotton
- Color: 33 options
- Price on publish: $27.45
What we like:
- Inexpensive
- Huge number of color options
- Corduroy-lined collar and cuffs for durability
What we don’t like:
- A handful of customer reviews complain it’s thinner and less soft than they would have liked
The bottom line:
A budget shirt that’s still 100% cotton and available in a fall forest’s worth of colors.
Legendary Whitetails Men's Buck Buck Camp Flannel Shirt, Long Sleeve Plaid Button Down Casual Shirt for Men, with Corduroy Cuffs, Fall & Winter Clothing, Mountain Charcoal Plaid, Small
Best everyday flannel shirt: Gap Organic Cotton Midweight Flannel Shirt
It could be argued the best part of fall is you can wear flannel every single day without raising any eyebrows. And if you’re planning on doing that, you’ll want to have a few more flannels in your closet. “This midweight flannel from Gap is an excellent everyday flannel,” says LaGrone. “Meant to be worn as a layer or fully buttoned as an indoor shirt, this option provides the classic flannel appearance and texture. It’s offered in over ten color patterns of plaid to suit everyone's taste and is fitted enough to be worn with jeans or slim joggers.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-3XL
- Material: 100% organic cotton
- Color: 11 options
- Price on publish: $29
What we like:
- Inexpensive
- Lots of color choices
- Comfortable
What we don’t like:
- A few customer reviews complain that it’s too long for them
The bottom line:
A reliable standby for when you just want to grab a flannel and go.
Organic Cotton Midweight Flannel Shirt
Best dressed-up flannel shirt: Eddie Bauer Flannel Classic Fit Shirt
Sometimes, you’ll want the warmth of flannel, without necessarily having the casual look of plaid flannel, in which case, this might be the one for you. “For a dressier flannel, you may want to steer toward a solid color,” advises LaGrone. “This shirt from Eddie Bauer comes in four different neutral colors, and is made from 100% ultrasoft cotton. The material composition makes it breathable and thin enough to tuck into jeans or slacks if needed. Additionally, the clean-cut cuffs and collar offer a more sophisticated look.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-3XL
- Material: 100% cotton
- Color: Gray, burgundy, coal, gray smoke
- Price on publish: $80
What we like:
- A dressier flannel
- Soft, yet durable
What we don’t like:
- All color options are pretty neutral
The bottom line:
Flannel with a little more sophistication, designed to keep you warm while looking smart.
Eddie Bauer Men's Eddie's Favorite Flannel Shirt- Coal - Size L
Best heavyweight flannel shirt: Pladra Men’s Fireside Flannel
Warm enough to be worn as a shacket, but soft enough to be a regular shirt, this option from Pladra is made from 100% organic cotton. Triple stitching on the shoulders and back, with reinforced chest pockets, sleeves, and cuffs, mean it’s also durable as hell. And just in case you were worried it doesn’t scream “fall” loudly enough, the underside of both the collars and cuffs are lined with prints of various forest animals (deer, birds, etc., depending on your color choice).
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-3XL
- Material: 100% organic cotton
- Color: Acadia blue, goose white, woodland green, October orange
- Price on publish: $149
What we like:
- Warm and durable
- Animal prints on the inside of collar and cuffs add a touch of autumnal charm
What we don’t like:
- On the pricier side
The bottom line:
A durable, super-warm, heavyweight flannel shirt that just screams autumn.
Pladra Men’s Fireside Flannel
Best flannel work shirt: Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt
You might be tempted to spend less on a work shirt, and understandably so, but if you’re looking for serious durability, that sometimes costs a little extra. “Filson has been around since 1897 and has been making top quality flannels since early on,” says Burch. “Their flannels are always a go-to for fall and winter and will last a lifetime. Built with thick and breathable cotton flannel, it’s ideal for cold weather—the fabric is heavily brushed for outstanding softness and thermal retention. Virtually unbreakable buttons are used for the front closure and adjustable cuffs, to ensure long-term, durable service.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-2XL
- Material: 8.1oz cotton twill
- Color: Red oak ombre, navy ivory red, cobalt/black plaid, graystone/blue
- Price on publish: $165
What we like:
- Durable
- Classic look
What we don’t like:
- Expensive
The bottom line:
A flannel work shirt that’s admittedly an investment, but will last you forever.
Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt
Most versatile flannel shirt: Duluth Men’s Free Swingin’ Flannel Untucked Shirt
“The Duluth flannel shirt has quickly become my favorite for several excellent reasons,” enthuses LaGrone. “It skillfully combines classic style with modern refinement, a rarity in today's men's flannel shirts. Crafted from 100% cotton, it boasts a robust 5.6 ounce weight, ensuring both durability and comfort. The fabric is meticulously double-brushed to create a luxuriously soft feel and loft, and it's prewashed to resist shrinkage. Adding to its charm is the option to wear it under a sports jacket. The best part is that this exceptional flannel will be fine with your budget, which is incredibly important to me.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: M-3XL
- Material: 100% cotton
- Color: Bourbon brown bears, red classic holiday plaid, naval academy plaid, merchant marine plaid
- Price on publish: $38.15
What we like:
- Inexpensive
- Durable
- Soft
What we don’t like:
- A minority of customer reviews complain it’s thinner than they expected
The bottom line:
A soft, durable shirt that looks as good under a sports coat as it does under a parka.
Men's Free Swingin' Flannel Untucked Shirt - Duluth Trading Company
Most comfortable flannel shirt: Carhartt Relaxed Fit Flannel Sherpa-Lined Shirt Jacket
If putting on your favorite flannel doesn’t feel like slipping under warm bed sheets, then why are you even wearing it? Upgrade to something comfier with this option. “Carhartt, one of the longest producers of flannel, has their production down pat,” says LaGrone. “This flannel is sherpa lined, with adjustable cuffs. Comfort and quality are two words to describe Carhartt's flannel products.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-4XL
- Material: 100% ring spun cotton, sherpa lining
- Color: 6 options
- Price on publish: $89.99-$99.99, depending on size
What we like:
- Super warm and cozy
- Multiple color options
What we don’t like:
- Some customer reviews say they run a little large
The bottom line:
An incredibly warm and comfortable shirt that can easily double as a jacket.
Carhartt Relaxed Fit Flannel Sherpa-Lined Shirt Jacket
Softest flannel shirt: Rails Lennox Shirt
Flannel is great for crunching about outside in crisp fall weather, but it can get too hot if you’re planning on spending the day inside. Consider, then, a softer, thinner alternative for rainy, indoor days. “Rails makes a beautiful, soft, and lightweight flannel that is great for dressing up,” says Burch. “It doesn’t check all the boxes as far as having traditional, heavyweight, dense fabric, but it is amazingly soft, with gorgeous fabrics.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-2XL
- Material: 55% cotton, 45% rayon
- Color: 24 options
- Price on publish: $148
What we like:
- Lots of color choices
- Soft
What we don’t like:
- Not designed to keep out the cold weather
- Expensive
The bottom line:
A gorgeously soft, if thinner flannel that’ll work for dressing up if required.
Rails Lennox Shirt Men's Shirt - Charcoal Mire
Best flannel jacket: Wrangler Riggs Workwear Long Sleeve Hooded Flannel Work Jacket
Got some serious yard work to do? Stay warm while still keeping those fall colors flying with a durable flannel jacket that’s as comfortable as your favorite hoodie. “Wrangler offers excellent options for flannel jackets for men,” says LaGrone. “The 50/50 cotton-polyester blend makes it durable for working outside in a variety of climates. Additionally, it features a zipper closure and hood for those classic 'jacket' functions.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-3XL
- Material: 50% cotton, 50% polyester
- Color: Green, navy orange, tan, gray black
- Price on publish: $49.99
What we like:
- Built-in hood
- Quilted, insulated lining
What we don’t like:
- A minority of customer reviews say it’s not warm enough for winter wear, only fall and spring
The bottom line:
A durable fall jacket with the stylings of a classic flannel shirt.
Wrangler Riggs Workwear Long Sleeve Hooded Flannel Work Jacket
Best lined flannel shirt: L.L.Bean Men's Fleece-Lined Flannel Shirt
Flannel is warm, but you can always be warmer! To really keep out that autumnal chill, try a flannel with a fleece lining that’s as soft as your favorite sweatpants . “For lined flannel, this sherpa-lined fleece from L.L. Bean hits all the key markers of a good flannel,” says LaGrone. “The outer shirt is 100% cotton, while the sherpa is 100% polyester. The two layers create just enough thickness that the shirt can be worn under a jacket but also keep you warm all by itself.” Shopping tip: Love the feel of L.L.Bean’s flannel? The retailer for all things outdoors also made our list of the best flannel sheets.
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-3XL
- Material: 100% cotton outer, 100% polyester fleece lining
- Color: 8 options
- Price on publish: $89
What we like:
- Warm
- Multiple color options
- Super soft
What we don’t like:
- Some customer reviews object to the lack of durability of the snaps
The bottom line:
A shirt whose warmth and softness will make you wonder if you actually got out of bed this morning.
Men's Fleece-Lined Flannel Shirt, Snap Front, Slightly Fitted Coal XXL, Polyester Flannel L.L.Bean
How we chose the best flannel shirts for men
Our picks came from a mixture of expert advice, personal experience with wearing several of the entries, and ensuring the customer reviews section for each was universally positive.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is high quality flannel?
“Material, weight, and price can all help you decide if a flannel is of good quality,” says LaGrone. “However, just because flannel is a bit thinner or less pricey does not necessarily mean it’s bad quality, as lightweight flannel is popular in moderate temperatures and for casual outfits outside of work.”
What is the best material for a flannel shirt?
“A high-quality flannel is made from either 100% cotton or a combination of cotton and wool,” emphasizes LaGrone. “They will be naturally thick and soft to the touch. A flannel generally should not be itchy on the skin, and since wool materials can sometimes itch, many may prefer 100% cotton material flannels. Polyester flannels are also quite popular and tend to be on the less expensive side. Usually, when looking for an outerwear flannel specifically, you will want to look for cotton and wool blends over polyester.”
In what weather should I wear flannel?
“Given the traditionally thick, dense fabric of high-quality flannel, as well as the typical plaid colorways, people associate flannel with fall and winter,” says Burch. “Wear them as a shirt, shirt jacket, or as a layering piece under a jacket.”
What is the best color for flannel shirts?
“Color is totally up to preference, although you may notice red plaid is a traditional choice for flannels,” says LaGrone. “Blues, browns, and greens are also becoming increasingly popular—really, you can likely find a quality flannel in any color of your choosing, but it may be more challenging to find one that’s not a checkered or plaid pattern.”
“The red and black buffalo check is iconic and classic,” adds Dimitry Loiseau, founder and chief editor of REGARD magazine. “It’s versatile, and can be worn for casual and some semi-formal settings. Grays, whites, and blues are always in style, especially if you’re going for the minimalist style. And if you prefer a more natural or rustic look, you can’t lose with earthy tones like greens, brown, and tans.”
“I would stay away from trying to get too ‘outside the box’ with lighter spring/summer colors,” warns Burch. “Stick to fall plaids or solids with reds, oranges, blues, and forest greens, with khaki, whites, and browns mixed in.”
How do I wash a flannel shirt?
“For 100% cotton flannels, you want to be wary of shrinking in the wash,” advises LaGrone. “It’s best to use a low machine setting (i.e., delicates) and a mild detergent with no bleach. Hang to dry or use a light tumble setting with low to medium heat in the dryer.”
“If your flannel has a majority wool blend, you will want to use the wool setting if your washing machine has it,” LaGrone continues. “Otherwise, a cold water cycle, again on delicate, will work best. The same drying instructions apply to cotton blends. Polyester rarely shrinks, especially if you’re washing in cold water, so a flannel of this material can likely be washed on any setting without causing harm.”
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