Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

You Need An Elbow-Patch Shirt This Season

Perhaps the time has come to pick out another shirt for a casual day at the office or a winter holiday on the road — the next time you find yourself stuck with what to wear in terms of weekday or weekend style, you should be reaching for an elbow-patch shirt. Yes, that’s right — an elbow-patch shirt with both old-school inspiration and modern style. The best elbow-patch shirts do a bit of everything, from layering atop your favorite henley to standing in for your trusty Oxford shirt at holiday dinner. The elbow patches provide some seasonal texture, too — and heck, when done the right way, one of the best elbow-patch shirts can function at home or in the field with ease. Still not convinced? Allow our picks to lead the way.

Jachs NY Olive Windowpane Elbow-Patch Shirt

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Perhaps the top example of an elbow-patch shirt that can be both old-school and modern at the same time, we love the rich olive color and unique windowpane pattern, touches that make this classic elbow-patch shirt easy to wear with chinos or jeans in equal measure.

Pendleton Elbow-Patch Trail Shirt

Pendleton Elbow-Patch Trail Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Leave it to Pendleton to come through with a rugged trail shirt that exemplifies the brand’s approach to heritage-quality menswear — the elbow patches contrast nicely with the black wool fabric.

Orvis Tech Chambray Plaid Work Shirt

Orvis Tech Chambray Plaid Work Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you prefer your elbow patch shirts to be more subdued, then take a look at the outdoors-minded Tech Chambray Plaid Work Shirt, with reinforced elbow patches that are a bit more subtle.

Ball and Buck Camo Hunter’s Shirt

Ball and Buck Camo Hunter's Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The great thing about the best elbow-patch shirts is that those elbow patches really can come in handy when it comes to extra toughness and reinforcement — witness the quilted elbow patches on this field-ready Ball and Buck Hunter’s Shirt (the cool camo pattern doesn’t hurt, either).

Filson Lightweight Shooting Shirt

Filson Lightweight Shooting Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Again, it’s quite helpful that the best elbow-patch shirts feature the ideal blend of functionality and rugged durability with style — this lightweight shooting shirt (also available for right-handers) is a prime example of that ideal blend.

Editors' Recommendations

Beau Hayhoe
Beau Hayhoe is a freelance men's style writer, consultant and PR pro based in Brooklyn. Beau's menswear and gear writing has…
Do you need a modular backpack? We tested the Baltoro Impetro, and weight the pros and cons
Modular backpacks are trendy, but are they for you?
Baltoro Impetro modular backpack set.

The bills itself as a "complete ecosystem" for mountain sports. The modular backpack, which fits in three pieces, is part of a more significant trend stirring up the outdoors, sports, and travel realms. But do you need one?

The gear system has many options, from a single bundle (single backpack) to a complete bundle (four sacks). You have a base unit that can be customized depending on what you're up to. It's all about adaptability and limiting materials, pros for the multi-sport enthusiast and environmentalist alike.

Read more
The definitive list of the best men’s wool sweaters this season
Sweater weather: These are the best wool options for men
Man in sweater and sunglasses

Colder weather is divisive among men. Some of us thrive when the temperature falls, and we are able to layer up. Others of us feel better on the beach, where we can lounge in linen and shorts. Of course, no matter where you live and what environment you reside, a sweater is an essential part of your wardrobe.

There are all kinds of sweaters to choose from, but one of the aspects you need to ensure you have is in the fabric. Wool is one of the most versatile fabrics in menswear. You will see them in some of the best suits on the market, and the fabric will also make up the best sweaters.

Read more
When you need the very best EDC knife, these 8 knives make the cut – The James Brand, 5.11 Tactical, and more
From slicing open Amazon packages to processing firewood, the right EDC blade can do it all
Emerson TKF-1

Everyday carry, or EDC, is a concept that is intended to keep you prepared for any eventuality. As far as tools that you need in your everyday carry kit, nothing is more important than getting the best EDC knife you can find. Of course, there are hundreds of options, some better than others. Like we always do, we have compiled a list to narrow down your options so you can pick up the best knife you can to keep you safe and prepared no matter where life takes you.

You aren't a ninja, so you don't need a sword. What you are looking for is something that finds the balance between a tool and a weapon. You will likely not need a weapon in your life, but if you are one of the unfortunate few who do, you'll be happy you grabbed the right one. Lucky for you, we have put together this buying guide to help you figure out what you are looking for before you start looking for the right one.

Read more