Best men's knitwear: Designer knitwear from merrino wool to cashmere jumpers

The seasons have changed, the days are short, and the temperature has dropped. And while this may be cause for grumbles and moans, it is also cause for celebration; long leafy walks, frosty sunrises and warming fires. There’s little as romantic as Britain in winter.

The change is season also allows for a change of wardrobe, and knitwear is one of the best garments a man can own.

Innately masculine and entirely versatile, a good piece of knitwear will last a lifetime if properly looked after. And in true traditional style, there are a host of British brands that are producing knitwear in British mills, using British wool. For many, Made in Britain is as important and the garment itself. And for those looking for an inexpensive alternative, there are a number of high street brands offering fine choices too.

From thick cable-knit and cashmere, to warming merino and wool, here is the best knitwear to buy this season.

Finisterre Bowers Jumper

The fully-traceable merino wool Bowers Jumper is one piece of knitwear that really impresses. Based on traditional designs worn by Nordic explorers and sailors, it is immediately striking and nostalgic. Founded back in 2003 in Cornwall for hardcore surfers, Finisterre has grown to become one of the greatest sustainably-focussed British sourced and manufactured garment brands on the market today. Couple this with its ability to maintain a reasonable price-point, it takes the top spot on this list.

£125 | Finisterre | Buy It Now

Uniqlo Turtleneck Long Sleeve Jumper

Uniqlo has boomed in recent years due to its high-quality, low-price garments that suit almost every need. This 100 per cent cashmere turtleneck jumper staggeringly comes in at under £100 and is promised to keep you warm this winter.

£79.90 | Uniqlo | Buy It Now

Wolsey Funnel Neck Raglan

A British brand with a heritage that goes all the way back to 1755, Wolsey know a thing or two about garment manufacturing. They even kitted Robert Falcon Scott out on his Antarctic expeditions, so they know how to keep people warm too. So, it’s little wonder it also holds a Royal Warrant. Featuring English yarn milled in Scotland, the entire process of the Funnel Neck Raglan remains British. Lightweight, warm and highly comfortable, it comes highly recommended.

£150 | Wolsey | Buy It Now

Topman Strone Knitted Jumper

For those looking for an inexpensive piece of knitwear this season, the Stone Knitted Jumper from Top Man is your best bet. Stylish, warm and very well priced, it’s a bargain.

£32 | Topman | Buy It Now

See all men's knitwear from Topshop here.

Shackleton Signature Sweater

Made from As the name indicates, Shackleton derives its title from the polar explorer, Ernest Shackleton. Indeed, it is even supporting 21^st century explorers, and its ambassador Captain Lou Rudd is currently attempting a World Record crossing of Antarctica. So, they know how to produce garments that keep you hyper-warm. The ultra-traditional Signature Sweater is not only ruggedly masculine and warm, but British sourced and manufactured too. For the adventurous, this is the one for you.

£155 | Shackleton | Buy It Now

Price compare: £125 at The Natural History Museum.

Next Rust Textured Crew

An inexpensive alternative to the cable knitted jumper, this Rust Textured Crew is a very good choice. Simple yet stylish, it’s key for versatility.

£35 | Next | But It Now

Private White V.C. Submariner Roll Neck

Private White V.C. has a fascinating story. Its origins date back to Manchester post-WWI, where one Jack White, a celebrated war hero, assumed control of a garment factory in Manchester. In 1997, his great grandchildren took control of the factory once again and founded Private White V.C. to commemorate their grandfather.

With a British sourced and manufactured ethos, and an honest pricing manifesto, it is one of the best luxury British brands in existence today. The cashmere submariner roll neck is one such piece of knitwear that impresses. Incredibly soft, warm and inherently British, it’s well worth the price. Oh, and they offer a lifetime repair service too!

£399 | Private White V.C. | Buy It Now

H&M Shawl Collar Jumper

The Shawl Collar Jumper from H&M is a great inexpensive alternative for those looking for something that merges both the crew cut and roll neck knitwear items. In white & grey marl, it is also stylish and versatile that can be pair with a smart coat or motorcycle jacket.

£29.99 | H&M | But It Now

Belstaff Engineered Roll Neck

Belstaff needs no introduction, and it has been producing high-quality garments for over 100 years.

Originally produced for motorcyclists, Belstaff knows how to manufacture garments that keep riders warm in the winter, so they’re great for almost any other need. The Engineered Roll Neck is perfect for merging city style with masculine heritage.

£225 | Belstaff | Buy It Now

River Island Cable Knit Muscle Fit

Another great choice for the city chap is this cable knit muscle fit jumper from River Island. While inexpensive, it looks great, especially for those wanting to stay warm while active this winter.

£25 | River Island | Buy It Now

Verdict:

While all the British brands in this list are incredible, with each offering their own great story, it is Finisterre that takes the top spot. With a highly commendable approach to sustainability and the environment, alongside a reasonable price-point and brilliant designs, what’s not to love.