The quarter-zip has quietly become the hardest-working jumper in a man’s wardrobe. It wears like a crew neck, opens like a collared shirt, and sits comfortably under a coat. Here is an honest look at the options worth considering in the UK this year.
What is a quarter-zip jumper?
A quarter-zip jumper is a knitted pullover with a short zip running from the neckline to the upper chest. Worn zipped up, it reads as a refined high neck. Worn open, it frames a shirt or tee underneath. It is the rare garment that works for the office, the weekend, and everything between.
The shortlist
| Jumper | Price (approx.) | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ralph Lauren cable-knit quarter-zip | ~£235 | The heritage pick |
| M&S lambswool quarter-zip | ~£45–60 | High-street reliability |
| COS textured quarter-zip | ~£75–90 | Minimalist wardrobe |
| Burton / Raging Bull styles | ~£40 | Budget-friendly |
| Threadbare knit quarter-zip | ~£26–28 | Lowest price |
| WARDLEY Nordic quarter-zip | See product page | Considered knit, fair-isle detailing |
Prices are approximate and were correct at the time of writing.
What to look for
Knit quality. Cable knits and textured weaves hold their shape better than flat jersey. Look for tight, even stitching at the cuffs and hem.
The zip. A good quarter-zip uses a smooth, sturdy zip that sits flat. It is the most-handled part of the garment — cheap zips fail first.
Fit. The modern cut is neither boxy nor skin-tight: room through the chest, a clean line through the body. When in doubt, take your usual size.
Price vs. wear. A jumper under £50 worn twice a week from October to March costs less per wear than most coffees. Longevity matters more than the ticket price.
Our take
We make the WARDLEY Nordic quarter-zip — cable-knit with a fair-isle band, free tracked UK delivery. We think it is the best value on this list. But the right jumper is the one you will actually wear, whichever badge is on it.
Frequently asked
How should a quarter-zip fit? Comfortably through the shoulders and chest with a clean drape through the body. The zip should lie flat when closed.
Can you wear a quarter-zip to the office? Yes — in a dark or neutral colour, under a blazer or over a collared shirt, it reads as smart-casual in most workplaces.
How do you wash a knitted quarter-zip? Cold, gentle cycle or hand wash, dry flat. Never tumble dry knitwear.
How long does delivery take? Dispatched in 1–2 working days, with delivery 6–10 working days from order and free tracked UK delivery.
Shop all men's quarter-zip jumpers and men's jumpers and knitwear, or read our quarter-zip buying guide, 7 quarter-zip outfits and quarter-zip vs crew neck vs V-neck.
