The Best Scarves for Men, Tested and Reviewed

Earlier this fall, we named Merz B. Schwanen’s Waffle Beanie as our favorite of the season. It’s rugged, refined, handsome, and easy to wear. All the same holds true for the German brand’s classic, ribbed merino scarves. The real style move to be made, here, is with color. I was immediately drawn to the Swan Blue, a hue that will jazz up a black or charcoal overcoat, harmonize with olive, and provide a cobalt pop to any typically drab outerwear. Runners-up are the Honey and Clay colors, which also caught my eye. A word to the wise: It’s tempting to double down on a matching set of a Merz scarf and beanie, but resist the impulse. One would never match a tie and pocket square. Don’t start with a hat and scarf. By all means, go full Merz with the woolen accessories, just be sure to vary the palette. 

Warmth: Is there anything merino wool can’t do? An utter workhorse in style and warmth — and at half the price of good cashmere — this should be a baseline wool. The Merz merino is soft, warm, and comfortable. It’s not too bulky when looped twice around the neck but still feels cozy. It also drapes nicely when just thrown over the shoulders, imparting a bit more versatility than the always-on thermal experience of the Buck Mason x Eddie Bauer scarf. 

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​     Aaron Britt • Spy Magazine