Joybuy Insights

Buying menswear online: how to choose comfort, style and practicality

Ordering menswear online is convenient, but a great product photo doesn’t always tell the whole story. A T-shirt can look substantial on screen yet feel thin in real life. A hoodie might have a relaxed fit, even when the size guide suggests a regular fit. Features such as ‘breathable’, ‘durable’ and ‘warm’ are also often used without a clear explanation.

Use these checks to compare menswear online by material, fit and intended use. That way, you can find men’s T-shirts, hoodies, jumpers, fleece tops, polo shirts, loungewear and functional ski trousers that suit your needs.

Three common pitfalls when shopping for menswear online

1. Relying on the brand or photo alone

Branded menswear can be appealing because of the logo, but the brand doesn’t automatically tell you about the fit or fabric composition of every style. Always check the product details. A 100% cotton T-shirt feels different from a stretch blend with elastane. Even within the same brand, styles can come in slim, regular or oversized fits.

2. Confusing ‘durable’ with indestructible

A product made with recycled polyester or organic cotton may use a different choice of materials, but that doesn’t mean the garment will last longer in all conditions. Check the composition, seams, cuffs and care instructions. According to Tommy Hilfiger’s product information, the Essential Flag hoodie contains certified recycled polyester and recycled cotton. This is verifiable information about the materials, not a guarantee of an unlimited lifespan.

3. Choosing a size without measuring yourself

Sizes vary by brand and style. Some items list a chest measurement, while others give only S, M, L or an EU size. Ideally, measure your chest and waist and compare them with the size guide on the product page. Also look out for notes such as ‘comes up large’ or ‘slim fit’. For example, the Under Armour Rival Fleece Crew is described as having a relaxed fit, so you may want to consider sizing down.

Which specifications deserve extra attention?

Material: cotton, polyester or a blend

Cotton menswear feels soft and familiar for many everyday occasions. According to the product information, the GANT Men Underwear T-Shirt is made from 100% cotton and has a crew neck. This makes it suitable as a T-shirt on its own or as a base layer under a shirt or jumper.

A cotton-polyester blend can dry more quickly and hold its shape better, depending on how it is made. According to the product specifications, the Under Armour Icon Fleece Crew is made from 80% cotton and 20% polyester. Its brushed inner surface is designed to feel warmer. Always check the care label: washing at low temperatures, avoiding tumble drying and drying flat may all be part of the care instructions.

Fit and freedom of movement

  • Slim fit: closer-fitting and well suited to a smart, modern outfit.
  • Regular fit: generally offers more room around the chest, waist and arms.
  • Relaxed fit: useful for layering, but may be less suitable under a jacket.

A stretch piqué polo made from 96% cotton and 4% elastane, such as the Calvin Klein Stretch Pique Slim Button Polo, may offer more freedom of movement than a completely rigid fabric. According to the product information, this style has a slim fit, a classic collar and a button fastening. Choose this fit if you prefer a close-fitting silhouette.

Choose features to suit how you’ll use it

Soft men’s loungewear sets are practical for relaxing at home, while sportswear should offer freedom of movement and be easy to care for. For winter sports, an ordinary fleece top is no substitute for ski trousers.

The product description for THE North Face Men Pants NF0A8DTJ lists features including DryVent fabric, a snow gaiter, ventilation zips and an adjustable waist. The brand describes the fabric as waterproof, windproof and breathable. Treat these as details from the product description, and check the latest information and care label before buying. These trousers are designed for use on the slopes, not for everyday wear in the city.

Our recommendations for different shoppers

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
GANT Men Underwear T-Shirt Gant L

GANT Men Underwear T-Shirt Gant L

Why it suits this profile: A simple cotton T-shirt is an easy choice for everyday wear, under a shirt or beneath a men’s hoodie.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly specifies 100% cotton, a crew neck and a lightweight construction. So you don’t have to rely solely on a marketing term such as ‘comfortable’.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton; crew neck; available in basic colours such as white, black and navy.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Tommy Hilfiger 1985 Slim Polo Men S Black

Tommy Hilfiger 1985 Slim Polo Men S Black

Why it suits this profile: This polo is designed for casual and smart-casual outfits with jeans, chinos or shorts.

How this product avoids the pitfall

You can check the details against the stated slim fit, 100% cotton piqué and size guide. Compare your chest measurement before ordering.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton piqué; ribbed collar and cuffs; two-button fastening.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use
THE North Face Men Pants NF0A8DTJ Utility Brown M

THE North Face Men Pants NF0A8DTJ Utility Brown M

Why it suits this profile: These ski trousers are designed for winter sports enthusiasts who need protection, ventilation and practical features while skiing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description lists specific features, including a snow gaiter, ventilation zips, an adjustable waist and a water-repellent finish.

Key benefit & highlights

100% nylon outer fabric according to the product specifications; inner-leg ventilation; a choice of different leg lengths.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying menswear online

How do I find my size when buying menswear online?

Measure your chest and waist with a flexible tape measure and compare the measurements with the size guide for the specific product. Also check the fit: slim, regular and relaxed styles all fit differently. Don’t automatically choose the same size for a T-shirt, polo and hoodie.

Which material is suitable for everyday wear?

It depends on your preferences and how you’ll use it. 100% cotton is a sensible choice for many men’s T-shirts and base layers. A cotton blend may offer more stretch or help the garment hold its shape. Polyester and blended fabrics are common in fleece tops and sportswear; if you’re considering these, pay particular attention to ventilation, freedom of movement and care instructions.

How can I make clothes bought online last longer?

Follow the care label, wash dark colours separately and avoid tumble drying if the label advises against it. Use a suitable detergent for technical ski clothing, and check whether the water-repellent finish needs to be reapplied. For men’s loungewear and cotton clothing, washing at low temperatures and drying gently can help limit shrinkage and loss of shape.