Keep warm with the best men’s flannel shirt in 2024

When it’s too warm for a sweatshirt but too nice to wear a simple tee shirt, the best men’s flannel tops are a must-have. Flannels, as an essential for cold weather, can be used either alone or to layer with other shirts. These shirts come in many sizes and colors. They are a must-have for every man.

If your old flannel is becoming a bit tattered, or you simply need a new pick for the cold months ahead, I’ve rounded up the eight best flannel shirts for men to carry you through the seasons with ease. From lightweight summer layers to warm winter overshirts, you’ll find the top options below, tried and tested from one flannel fanatic to another.

What you need to know

It’s hard to find a winter garment as classic as a good flannel shirt. For the best picks, I searched the web and read customer reviews more than the flannel colors. For the optimal pick, our top choice is the Forét Grip Check Flannel Shirt for a traditional look, super soft feel, and ease of styling. If you’re looking for a flannel that’s a bit more budget-friendly, the Wrangler Fleece Lined Flannel is one of the most affordable and warmest options on the list.

Discover more flannel shirts that will complete any winter wardrobe.

Why it’s great: This is a classic flannel for men who prefer a relaxed fit. It’s certainly roomy in case you want to throw on an extra layer underneath, but looks just as sharp on its own. It is made of unbrushed twill organic cotton, which locks in heat to keep you warm during the coldest months.

Who is this for? This flannel is for the stylish man who’s looking for a flannel that can do it all. Wear it in town, on the trail, or while traveling. It’ll be a dependable layer for as long as you own it.

How to style a shirt Pair this shirt with baggier slacks or cargo pants to embrace the relaxed style. Wear it with straight jeans and duck boots to achieve the New England look.

There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. The relaxed look can be great for layering. However, it could swallow smaller guys. If you’re worried about the flannel being too large, you can always size down. However, Forét’s garments tend to run true to size.

Material: Cotton 100% organic | Sizes Available: S – XXL | Colors Available: 2

Why it’s great: This is a beautifully crafted shirt in Portugal made from linen and cotton. It’s a great option for men who want flannel that’s lightweight. This shirt has the softness and feel of a classic cotton flannel without the weight. It is perfect for wearing all year round, but especially in spring and summer.

Who is this for? This is the perfect layer for guys who want to keep cool and breezy. Wear it with a t-shirt, over a long-sleeve shirt, or just on its own. It’s thinner than a flannel shirt for men, but still unique. The top is finished with mother-of-pearl buttons and has a curved bottom hem.

How to style a shirt Wear it open over a white tee in spring or buttoned with dark-wash jeans or navy slacks. Don’t forget the Chelsea boots and beanie for a quintessential autumn look. You can even tuck in the hat and add a cashmere cardigan on top to keep warm.

There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. Since this shirt is more lightweight than a standard flannel, don’t expect it to keep you crazy warm. That said, it’s a choice piece for layering and a must-have staple for transitional seasons.

Material: 70% cotton, 30% linen | Sizes Available: XS – XXL | Colors Available: 2

Why it’s great: If you’re not sold on the checkered look, this Italian-made shirt is one of the best flannels for men. It comes in a solid color of your choice (eight to choose from), and has a cotton flannel fabric. This shirt can easily replace your poplin and chambray shirts for office wear in cold weather.

Who is this for? Ideal for the man after an upgrade to his winter wardrobe, this flannel is highly versatile – more so than checkered versions.

How to style a shirt This cotton flannel can be paired with jeans, khakis or formal trousers. It’s easy to dress up, in fact, you can even wear it under a suit with a pair of polished derbies or wingtips. Stick to slacks with a bomber or vest and leather sneakers for a more casual look.

There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. Flannel and check go hand in hand, so if you’d prefer a more classic pattered look, opt for Velasca’s Norica flannel.

Material: 100% cotton flannel | Sizes Available: XS – 3XL | Colors Available: 8

Why it’s great: This Wrangler option offers the best winter warmth. This flannel is made from double-sided brushed fleece and traps warmth against your body. It also looks great. It’s intended for layering and can be worn as an alternative to a sweatshirt if you’re looking to upgrade your wardrobe with a timeless winter piece.

Who is this for? This is for the guy who’s tired of feeling the wind whip through his lighter cotton shirts. This fleece shirt has a tighter weave, which will keep out the cold and in the heat.

How to style a shirt This shirt can be worn with jeans and a long-sleeved top for a casual appearance or with chinos to create a dressier look. It’s easy to add extra layers to the flannel because it is slightly oversized. This makes it perfect for those autumn days where you don’t want to wear a jacket.

There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. This flannel jacket is lined with a soft, fleece-like material. It’s designed to be worn as a layer over another shirt or top. It’s also made from polyester rather than cotton, which is what flannel is generally made from.

Material: 100% Polyester | Sizes Available: S – 3X | Colors Available: 20+

Why it’s great: If any brand knows a thing or two about durable clothing to keep you warm, it’s Carhartt. This is among the top flannel shirts for men searching for a rugged top that’s designed to last. Kitted out with a heavyweight construction and seven neutral colorways, this Carhartt flannel is for every guy, especially given the range of ‘big and tall’ size options (up to 4XL).

This is for: The flannel has triple stitched edges and a looser fitting, making it ideal for the work site. It’s especially useful for guys who work outside or men who can’t get enough of the great outdoors, even during the depths of winter.

Style your shirt: The roomier construction of this flannel allows it to be worn as a shirt or a layer. Wear it with cargos or jeans and a beanie for a workwear look, or with khakis with high-top sneakers to dinner.

There are some flaws in the design, but these do not affect the final product. If you’re after a more fitted look, it’s worth sizing down since this flannel is designed to run large.

Material: 100% ringspun cotton | Sizes Available: S – 4XL | Colors Available: 7

Why it’s great: Nothing screams classic American quite like Land’s End, so it’s no wonder they make one of the nicest flannel shirts for men. Dubbed the “Flagship Flannel,” this shirt is close to flawless, a standout choice for daily wear with the perfect weight, fit, and color options. It’s fitted but not too slim, warm but not overwhelmingly hot, and can easily be worn on its own or as a top layer.

Who is this for? This is by far the most popular option for men looking for a basic flannel. It is a great balance of style, quality and comfort.

How to style a shirt The flannel shirt is one of the most versatile shirts for men. This shirt goes well with jeans and sneakers, just like Hawaiian shirts or cruises. You can also make it formal by tucking in a pair chinos, a wool jacket and leather Chelsea Boots.

There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. You may find this flannel too short if you have a large frame. Sizing up is recommended for men over 6 feet tall.

Material: 100% cotton | Sizes Available: S – 4XL | Colors Available: 14

Why it’s great: The best flannel shirts for men are those with corduroy sleeves and a comfy fit. This flannel shirt is made by Legendary Whitetails – a brand that’s known for their deer hunting gear. The corduroy adds a unique touch, but it’s still a classic. While it won’t take the place of your oxford shirts for the office, this gives a laid back look for informal wear.

Who is this for? This shirt is perfect for winter base layers. It has the softest feel and all the benefits of a flannel.

How to style a shirt Wear this flannel under a jacket or sports coat. You can choose from a variety of colors to match your wardrobe. Stellar for date nights, fall walks, or as an extra layer when skiing, you’ll always find yourself reaching for this well-fitting top.

There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. The shirt is a little big but it’s also likely to shrink after the first wash. You may want to stay true to size or size down, and only wash in cold water.

Material: 100% cotton | Sizes Available: S – 5XL | Colors Available: 35+

Why it’s great: This is one of the top flannels to choose for men trying to keep warm in the winter. It has an oversized design and a cozy construction. Due to the cut, it’s one of the top options for layering, with enough room for a long sleeve or even a hoodie underneath. Finished with a straight hem and a single chest pocket, it’s reminiscent of an overshirt minus the rigid construction.

This is for: Since this is a piece for layering, it’s an appropriate choice for any guy after a flannel for casual wear. While I wouldn’t sport it at the office, it’s a strong option for date nights, chilly afternoons at home, or weekend adventures.

Style your shirt: This shirt is perfect for layering, as the loose fit encourages you to add a lot of clothing. This particular colorway goes well with dark-washed jeans and either a black or a white tee. For a streetwear inspired look, throw a hoodie on underneath – don’t forget to pull the hood above the collar.

There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. It’s more of a layering top than a flannel. You can definitely wear it on its own, but you’ll be more comfortable with something underneath.

Material: Cotton 100% organic | Sizes Available: XS – 2XL | Colors Available: 6

What to consider when buying the best men’s Flannel Shirts

Material

The primary consideration when choosing flannel shirts is what they’re made from. Today, any “real” flannel shirt is made from 100% cotton, though traditionally, flannels were made from wool. Cotton flannels are some of the softest, warmest options, especially if they’re made from a tighter weave to keep cold air out.

However, you’ll find plenty of awesome flannels made from different materials, like the Wrangler Fleece Lined Flannel, which features a polyester construction for a fleecier feel.

Fit

Fit also matters because different shapes have different qualities. Most flannels come in a slightly relaxed or oversized fit that makes them perfect for layering. Flannels are designed for cold weather, so having some extra room to layer underneath is appreciated.

If you want to wear a flannel by itself or with a less bulky layer like a T-shirt, choose a more fitted, slimmer flannel. These are not overshirts, but rather a standalone top you can wear untucked or tucked. A curved hem can be added to fitted flannels for an extra stylish touch.

Color and Pattern

It’s the color and pattern that makes your shirt a true flannel. The most classic type of flannel has a checkered plaid pattern that derives from hunters, workwear, and English tradition, though there’s no hard rule that a flannel has to be plaid.

It’s also worth understanding the distinction between a flannel and a pattern. Flannel is the fabric, whereas the pattern can be plaid or checked.

Flannels are available in a wide range of colors. They can be solid or plaid. If you want a classic look, choose a plaid with red, blue, or green.

Why trust us?

FashionBeans’ Jane Elmets is a beacon of authority in the realm of men’s fashion, particularly known for her insightful takes on wardrobe essentials. Jane Elmets’s seasoned style is evident in all of her articles. From the definitive guide to mod-fashion to in-depth reviews of niche fragrances to essential shirt brands, she has a wide range. Jane’s approach is deeply rooted in a commitment to quality and sustainability, ensuring that her selections for the best flannel shirts are not just about aesthetics but also about longevity and fabric integrity. Jane, who has a passion for fashion and extensive experience, carefully selects a selection of flannel shirt that are both stylish and durable. They reflect a combination of timeless appeal with a modern sensibility. Jane’s expertise will help you navigate the many choices available for flannel shirt styles, and ensure that your investment is one that will last.

How to Choose the Best Flannel Shirts For Men

As a flannel lover myself, I researched the best options available from well-known brands and smaller ones that produce quality products. The flannels you see on this list are derived from timeless companies known for their durable garments, like Carhartt, Wrangler, and Land’s End, for men searching for practical pieces. For men who are concerned about the look of the flannel I have included several high-end choices made from organic and Italian cotton. The options on this list span a range of budgets, fits, and styles, ensuring that there’s a pick for every man, no matter his personal preferences.

Final Verdict

There are many flannels, but it’s hard to decide which ones you should add to your wardrobe. At the end of the day, the best flannel shirts for men include the Forét Grip Check Flannel Shirt for a timeless look and feel, and the Wrangler Fleece Lined Flannel if you’re hoping for something super warm without breaking the bank. Any flannel shirt on this list is sure to serve you well this fall, this winter and for many seasons ahead.