When the temperature rises, your shirt can make or break your comfort — and your style.
The best summer shirts strike the perfect balance: they breathe well, drape nicely, and look sharp whether you’re at a beach party, a casual lunch, or a rooftop bar.
This hand-picked list features 12 lightweight men’s shirts from popular, reputable brands — all known for comfort, quality, and timeless good looks.
From crisp linen button-downs to breezy polos, these picks will help you stay cool without looking sloppy.
1. Polo Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Linen Shirt
Overview: A staple for the warm season — Polo’s linen shirts are cut for comfort, easy to roll at the sleeves, and come in tasteful solids and stripes.
Fabric: 100% Linen
Key Features:
- Breathable natural fiber
- Classic collar
- Embroidered Polo pony logo
2. Tommy Hilfiger Short Sleeve Linen Blend Shirt
Overview: A relaxed blend of linen and cotton, with a touch of Tommy’s iconic preppy style. Easygoing and great for travel.
Fabric: Linen-cotton blend
Key Features:
- Lightweight feel
- Button-down collar
- Subtle flag logo detail
3. Nautica Men’s Classic Fit Linen Shirt
Overview: Crisp white or pastel linen from Nautica — gives you that nautical, “weekend by the coast” vibe.
Fabric: 100% Linen
Key Features:
- Breathable, moisture-wicking
- Relaxed fit for comfort
- Subtle brand logo
4. Calvin Klein Men’s Airsoft Stretch Short Sleeve Shirt
Overview: Sleek and minimal — perfect for men who want a modern, neat look with a breathable fabric that moves with you.
Fabric: Airsoft stretch blend
Key Features:
- Lightweight and smooth
- Button front
- Slight stretch for comfort
5. Lacoste Short Sleeve Piqué Polo
Overview: The iconic polo for a reason — Lacoste’s cotton piqué breathes well and keeps its shape.
Fabric: 100% Cotton Piqué
Key Features:
- Signature crocodile logo
- Ribbed collar and cuffs
- Classic fit
6. Perry Ellis Men’s Linen-Blend Short Sleeve Shirt
Overview: Perry Ellis delivers easygoing summer style with a soft linen-cotton blend and classic fit. Great for casual weekends, vacations, or a laid-back dinner by the water.
Fabric: Linen-cotton blend
Key Features:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Chest pocket
- Subtle, polished look that pairs well with chinos or shorts
7. Goodthreads Standard-Fit Washed Linen Shirt
Overview: Amazon’s in-house brand delivers a soft, broken-in feel right out of the box — great for casual Fridays or a patio lunch.
Fabric: 100% Linen
Key Features:
- Washed linen for softness
- Button-down collar
- Available in solids and subtle patterns
8. Columbia Tamiami II Short Sleeve Shirt
Overview: Technically a fishing shirt, but city guys love it too. Ultra-lightweight, vented, and dries in minutes.
Fabric: Omni-Wick™ polyester
Key Features:
- UPF 40 sun protection
- Vented back
- Quick-dry technology
9. Van Heusen Air Short Sleeve Button-Up
Overview: Classic business-casual look, but made with airy stretch fabric that keeps you cool even on muggy days.
Fabric: Lightweight poly-cotton blend
Key Features:
- Wrinkle-resistant
- Moisture-wicking
- Stays crisp all day
10. Lee Men’s Short Sleeve Button-Up Shirt
Overview: Lee keeps it simple and timeless — this short sleeve button-up offers lightweight comfort with a casual-cool vibe. Pairs perfectly with chinos or shorts for weekend outings.
Fabric: Cotton or cotton-blend, depending on color
Key Features:
- Soft, breathable fabric
- Chest pocket for a classic touch
- Relaxed fit that doesn’t cling
11. IZOD Advantage Performance Polo
Overview: This isn’t your dad’s polo — moisture-wicking tech keeps you dry, while stretch fabric ensures you stay comfortable.
Fabric: Cotton-poly blend with stretch
Key Features:
- Natural stretch
- UPF sun protection
- Quick-dry finish
12. Cubavera Short Sleeve Linen-Blend Guayabera
Overview: Bring a touch of Latin-inspired resort elegance lightweight with classic pleats and embroidery.
Fabric: Linen-cotton blend
Key Features:
- Button front with pleats
- Breathable and airy
- Traditional guayabera styling
