Ralph Lauren vs. Criquet Polo Shirts for Men — How to Compare Fit, Fabric, Style and Value
Choosing between Ralph Lauren and Criquet polo shirts means weighing heritage against innovation. Ralph Lauren brings decades of iconic American style and refined craftsmanship, while Criquet offers modern performance fabrics and a fresh approach to classic menswear. Both brands deliver quality polo shirts, but they cater to different preferences in fit, fabric technology, design philosophy, and price point. Understanding these differences helps you select the polo that best suits your wardrobe, lifestyle, and budget.
When shopping for a quality polo shirt, Ralph Lauren and Criquet represent two distinct approaches to menswear. Ralph Lauren embodies timeless elegance rooted in American tradition, while Criquet combines classic styling with contemporary performance features. This comparison explores how these brands differ across fabric quality, construction methods, design elements, durability, and overall value to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Brand Snapshot: History, Reputation, and Signature Features
Ralph Lauren launched in 1967 and quickly became synonymous with preppy American style. The brand’s polo shirts carry decades of heritage, often featuring the iconic embroidered pony logo. Ralph Lauren offers multiple lines ranging from affordable Polo Ralph Lauren to premium Purple Label collections, each targeting different market segments with varying quality levels and price points.
Criquet entered the market more recently with a mission to modernize the polo shirt. Founded by former collegiate golfers, the brand focuses on performance-oriented fabrics while maintaining classic aesthetics. Criquet emphasizes American manufacturing, sustainable practices, and a streamlined product line that avoids excessive branding. The company positions itself as a direct-to-consumer alternative offering premium quality without traditional retail markups.
Both brands have cultivated loyal followings, though Ralph Lauren enjoys broader recognition while Criquet appeals to consumers seeking innovative fabrics and understated styling.
Fabric and Construction: Materials, Collar Types, and Fit Options
Fabric composition significantly impacts comfort, performance, and longevity. Ralph Lauren traditionally uses cotton piqué for its classic polo shirts, offering breathability and a textured appearance. Higher-end Ralph Lauren lines incorporate supima cotton, mercerized finishes, and cotton-blend fabrics with added stretch. The brand’s performance polos feature moisture-wicking synthetic blends designed for active wear.
Criquet specializes in technical fabrics that blend natural and synthetic fibers. Their signature material combines pima cotton with polyester and spandex, creating shirts that resist wrinkles, wick moisture, and maintain shape after repeated washing. Criquet fabrics often include UV protection and antimicrobial treatments, making them suitable for golf, travel, and everyday wear.
Collar construction differs between brands. Ralph Lauren employs traditional three-button plackets with reinforced collars that maintain structure over time. Criquet uses fused collar technology and often features two-button or three-button configurations with softer, more relaxed collar stays.
Fit options vary considerably. Ralph Lauren offers multiple fits including Slim, Classic, and Custom Slim across different product lines, though sizing can be inconsistent between collections. Criquet provides a more limited range with Players Fit (athletic cut) and Classic Fit options, both designed with modern proportions and slightly longer body lengths to prevent untucking.
Design and Styling: Logos, Colorways, and Outfit Pairings
Visual branding represents a key distinction. Ralph Lauren prominently displays its signature pony logo on most polo shirts, typically positioned on the left chest. This recognizable emblem appeals to consumers who value visible brand identity. The company offers extensive colorways each season, from classic navy and white to bold seasonal hues and striped patterns.
Criquet takes a minimalist approach with subtle branding. Most styles feature small embroidered logos or no visible branding at all, appealing to those who prefer understated elegance. The brand focuses on versatile solid colors and occasional heathered options, prioritizing timeless appeal over trend-driven designs.
Outfit versatility differs slightly between brands. Ralph Lauren polos pair naturally with chinos, blazers, and traditional casual wear, fitting seamlessly into preppy and business-casual wardrobes. Criquet shirts transition easily from athletic activities to casual social settings, working well with jeans, shorts, and modern tailored trousers.
Both brands offer suitable options for various occasions, though Ralph Lauren leans traditional while Criquet embraces contemporary styling.
Durability and Care: Washing, Maintenance, and Expected Lifespan
Longevity depends on fabric quality, construction methods, and care practices. Ralph Lauren’s cotton piqué polos generally withstand regular washing when cared for properly. Higher-quality Ralph Lauren lines feature reinforced seams, quality stitching, and durable buttons that extend garment life. However, lower-tier offerings may experience pilling, fading, or collar deterioration after extended use.
Criquet’s performance fabrics demonstrate excellent durability with minimal pilling and superior color retention. The synthetic fiber blend resists shrinking and maintains shape better than pure cotton alternatives. Many users report Criquet polos looking nearly new after dozens of wash cycles.
Care requirements differ slightly. Ralph Lauren cotton polos benefit from cold water washing, air drying, and occasional ironing to maintain appearance. Criquet shirts require less maintenance, often emerging from the dryer wrinkle-free and ready to wear without ironing.
Expected lifespan varies by usage frequency and care habits. Well-maintained Ralph Lauren polos typically last two to five years with regular wear. Criquet shirts often exceed this timeframe due to advanced fabric technology and construction quality, with many customers reporting five-plus years of consistent use without significant deterioration.
Price and Buying Tips: Value, Where to Buy, and How to Choose the Right Polo
Pricing structures reflect different business models and market positioning. Understanding cost differences helps evaluate overall value.
| Brand | Product Line | Price Range | Key Value Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ralph Lauren | Polo Ralph Lauren | $60 - $125 | Wide availability, classic styling, brand recognition |
| Ralph Lauren | Purple Label | $250 - $500 | Premium materials, Italian craftsmanship, luxury positioning |
| Criquet | Core Collection | $95 - $125 | Performance fabrics, American-made, direct pricing |
| Criquet | Limited Editions | $135 - $165 | Exclusive designs, premium details, seasonal releases |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Ralph Lauren products are widely available through department stores, brand boutiques, official websites, and authorized retailers. Frequent sales and outlet locations offer opportunities for discounted pricing, sometimes reducing costs by 30-50 percent. However, quality varies significantly across product lines and price points.
Criquet operates primarily direct-to-consumer through its website, eliminating retail markups. The brand occasionally partners with select golf clubs and specialty retailers. While full-price Criquet shirts cost more than entry-level Ralph Lauren options, the performance features and durability may justify the investment for active individuals.
When choosing between brands, consider your priorities. Select Ralph Lauren if you value traditional styling, visible branding, extensive color options, and the ability to try on garments in physical stores. Choose Criquet if you prioritize performance fabrics, minimal branding, American manufacturing, and modern fit proportions.
For best value, purchase Ralph Lauren during seasonal sales or at outlet locations, focusing on higher-quality lines rather than budget offerings. Buy Criquet at full price knowing you receive consistent quality and performance features, or watch for occasional promotional offers through email subscriptions.
Conclusion
Ralph Lauren and Criquet represent different philosophies in polo shirt design. Ralph Lauren offers heritage, variety, and widespread recognition with quality levels spanning budget to luxury segments. Criquet provides modern performance, durability, and understated style at consistent quality levels. Your ideal choice depends on personal style preferences, intended use cases, and value priorities. Both brands deliver quality options when you select appropriate product lines and care for garments properly.
