Men's roll-neck jumpers

First workwear, then the golf course, then stages and universities: the roll-neck jumper has had an unusually long career. Its roots reach back to the 15th century, it was worn for golf in England in the 1890s, and by the 1950s it had firmly entered high fashion. Since then, it has become a garment associated with intellectual style. Not a bad reputation for a jumper, if you ask us.

Our range of men's roll-neck jumpers runs from fine-knit styles that sit neatly under any blazer to textured knits for colder days. Two ends of the same idea – with much more in between than this garment might suggest at first glance.

What types of roll neck are there?

There are two main collar shapes. A classic roll neck is long enough to fold over once – the traditional version and the one most people picture. A mock neck, by contrast, sits close to the neck but stays upright, giving it a more modern and less formal look.

Both do the same job: they cover the neck area and help keep out wind and cold. They simply create a different impression – and affect the silhouette differently, which we will come back to shortly.

Fine-knit or textured roll-neck jumper?

Fine knit is the most versatile choice and also the larger part of our range. It sits close to the body, adds very little bulk under a blazer or jacket and looks refined – making a fine-knit roll-neck jumper an easy option for the office.

Textured knit is the counterpart: more surface, more character and a warmer feel. It works especially well for casual outfits and on days when the jumper is your outermost layer. Lighter styles also work well between seasons with a jacket over the top.

What is the best material for a roll-neck jumper?

Cotton is skin-friendly, breathable and hard-wearing – an uncomplicated everyday fabric. Merino wool feels particularly fine and regulates temperature: it keeps you warm in winter and helps you stay comfortable when it is warmer. Cashmere is the softest option and insulates better than standard sheep's wool, while virgin wool is more robust and provides plenty of warmth.

Synthetic blends with polyester, polyamide or viscose are easy to care for and quick-drying, although they are more prone to pilling.

You can always find the materials used in your roll-neck jumper in the product description. With knitwear, it is especially worth checking, because the fibre content often tells you more about how it will feel to wear than the size label does.

How a men's roll-neck jumper should fit

Three points determine the fit. The collar should sit close to the neck without feeling tight. The shoulder seam should end at the edge of the shoulder, not below it. And the jumper should finish around hip level so it does not ride up when you sit down. As a rule, a roll-neck jumper looks best with a close, body-skimming fit. Too much excess fabric takes away from the effect of the collar.

The collar and your silhouette

One detail that rarely gets discussed: a closed collar draws the eye upwards and puts more focus on the face. That is usually an advantage – especially in the office or when you are talking face to face.

At the same time, a men's roll-neck jumper can make the neck look shorter. If you are on the shorter side, a finer knit with a collar that is not too bulky will usually work better than a thick style. A V-neck jumper is an alternative, but then, of course, it is no longer a roll neck.

How do you wear a roll-neck jumper?

For the office: choose dark shades such as black, grey or navy in a fine knit, add a pair of smart trousers and, if you want a more formal look, wear a blazer over the top. This combination replaces a shirt and tie without looking incomplete – and it is one of the few ways to feel comfortable at work while still looking properly dressed.

For your free time: choose a chunkier knit, wear it casually with jeans and add trainers. If your roll-neck jumper comes in a stronger colour such as green or beige, keep the trousers more understated. Finish the look with a jacket – a denim jacket or a coat both work.

And don't forget the rest of our knitwear

If you like the roll-neck jumper, browse our complete knitwear range – you will find all the different necklines and knit structures side by side. We are sure there is something that is right for you.