As an avid boater and beachgoer, I’m always on the lookout for comfortable, stylish shirts that can handle being out on the water. After years of testing different brands, I’ve found that Izod Saltwater shirts really are the best option.

In this comprehensive buying guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about Izod’s famous saltwater shirt collection – from materials and fit to care instructions and style advice. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just looking for a sharp casual shirt, read on to find your perfect Izod saltwater shirt!

What Exactly Are Izod Saltwater Shirts?

The Izod saltwater shirt collection features lightweight, breathable shirts designed specifically for wear in sunny, water-oriented settings. The fabric is a lightweight cotton blend that’s smooth, soft, and comfortable.

Unlike a stiff corporate dress shirt, Izod saltwater shirts move with you and won’t restrict your range of motion. They’re a perfect choice for days out boating, fishing, beachcombing, or anytime you need durable shirts that can handle water and sun exposure.

While called “saltwater” shirts, these versatile Izod shirts work just as well outdoors as they do untucked with jeans for casual Friday at the office.

The Best Places to Buy Izod Saltwater Shirts

Given their popularity, Izod saltwater shirts are widely available from several major retailers:

• Amazon – The largest selection online, often at discounted prices
• Macy’s – Frequent sales & mail coupons available
• Sierra – Specializes in discounted name-brand outdoor apparel
• Zappos – Free shipping & returns on all orders
• Dedicated Izod.com – Occasional online specials & new releases

For the best selection, I recommend buying online from Amazon or a full-line retailer like Macy’s. Check manufacturer’s websites like Izod.com for latest styles.

Reviews Agree – Quality & Comfort Are Excellent

Across hundreds of buyer reviews, the consensus is clear – Izod saltwater shirts deliver outstanding quality and comfort. Fans rave about the softness of the fabric, the versatility of the designs, and how well the shirts hold up over years of use.

As one reviewer on Amazon shares: “These Izod shirts are my absolute favorite summer shirts. I wear them boating, to outdoor events, or just running weekend errands. The material is light and breathable, but more substantial than a cheap poly blend. They fit my athletic build better than most casual shirts as well.”

Reviewers do note that some light ironing may be needed right out of the package, but the shirts maintain their polished look even after repeat wear and washes. For a classic shirt that performs on the water and beyond, Izod saltwater shirts have truly earned a sterling reputation.

Sizing Runs True – But Leave Room for Comfort

Across the board, Izod saltwater shirts tend to run true to size based on your usual Izod or Van Heusen shirt size. However, many wearers recommend ordering one size up for a roomier, breezier fit – especially if you plan to wear them untucked.

The shirts are available in traditional numeric sizes from Small through XX-Large Regular (and up to XXXL Tall online). It’s worth measuring your best fitting current shirt and then referencing Izod’s published size chart to dial in your ideal Izod saltwater shirt size.

Leaving a bit of extra room allows air to circulate, critical for staying cool in the sweltering heat. Keep in mind the shirts will shrink ever so slightly after the first wash.

A Spectrum of Colors & Prints for Every Taste

Beyond a variety of solids and stripes, Izod saltwater shirts really shine with the breadth of their unique, nautical-inspired prints and color combinations.

Popular choices include navy and white stripes, bright colors like coastal blue or seafoam green, and subtler stone/tan stripes. Keep an eye out for limited edition patterns with sailboats, retro ocean themes, or tropical motifs as well.

Izod releases several new saltwater shirt collections each year – giving you plenty of stylish designs to mix and match for seasons of sailing or beach trips.

Design & Material Innovations Keep Improving

From quick-dry fabric to UV protection, Izod consistently updates their saltwater shirts with design and material innovations that enhance comfort and durability.

Recent additions include Izod Saltwater Cool Cotton shirts woven with breathable mesh for ultra-light cooling comfort. They’ve also integrated super-smooth SunSoft cotton that maintains its softness wash after wash.

Other innovations to look for are DryIQ moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you dry, UV Defender shirts with 50+ UPF sun protection, and Odor Shield tech to prevent bacterial odors even after long hot days outdoors.

By continually improving their shirts, Izod ensures their saltwater collection stays at the leading edge of performance and comfort.

Caring for Your Izod Saltwater Shirts

To keep your Izod saltwater shirts looking polished and maintain the quality:

• Machine wash cold, gentle cycle. Avoid overcrowding.
• Tumble dry low heat or hang dry to prevent shrinkage. Remove promptly.
• Avoid bleach – it can degrade fabric integrity over time.
• Lightly iron if needed to remove wrinkles and crisp collars.
• Inspect buttons and reinforce loose ones if needed.

With proper laundering, your Izod saltwater shirts can deliver years of great performance outdoors and remain stylish favorites for all occasions.

Built To Last Years Even With Heavy Use

From my experience, Izod saltwater shirts really do stand the test of time. The fabric holds up to countless days in the sun and resists damage from saltwater exposure.

Even wearing them multiple times per week both on and off my boat, the shirts look and feel like new after dozens of launderings. Plus, the colors maintain their vibrancy – no fading after repeat washings.

Between the durable construction and easy-care fabric, don’t be surprised if your Izod saltwater shirts look great season after season. It’s a testament to their outstanding quality.

A Brilliant Value for Premium Performance

Given their quality and versatility, Izod saltwater shirts deliver outstanding value for money. The standard retail price for most styles ranges from $50 to $70, very reasonable for such well-made, comfortable shirts.

The Izod name has always meant premium quality in menswear. So whether you catch them on sale or at full price, rest assured you’re getting an excellent combination of quality materials, thoughtful design, and robust construction.

For shirts you can rely on day in and day out, the price is surely right with Izod’s saltwater collection.

Style Tips & Tricks to Look Your Best

Here are my top style tips for getting the most use out of your Izod saltwater shirts:

• For a polished yet relaxed look, pair them with flat front shorts or dark wash jeans
• Leave them untucked when wearing casually, tucked for a dressed up look
• Roll up sleeves and unbutton the collar for a super breezy, vacation vibe
• Mix solids with patterns – a striped shirt with floral shorts makes a lively combo
• Layer over a bright tee for an eye-catching contrast popping out from the collar
• Add a raffia hat and sunglasses when heading out for a day in the sun

Use these easy styling tricks to build great looks all season long with your Izod saltwater shirts!

How Izod Saltwater Shirts Stack Up to the Competition

When comparing with similar shirts from other outdoor brands like Columbia, Dockers, and Tommy Bahama – the Izod saltwater shirts consistently come out on top for their smart design and quality.

Here’s how Izod outshines the competition:

• Better fit – more athletic than boxy “dad” shirts
• Softer feel – Izod’s fabrics have a smoother handfeel
• More durable – stands up to years of wear better than competitors
• Brighter colors – unique prints don’t fade over time
• More comfortable – lighter and breezier on hot sunny days

While the other shirts work fine, the Izod collection really provides a cut above in terms of premium materials, athletic cut, and unique style you won’t find elsewhere.

Track Down Hard-to-Find Styles on eBay

For those style-conscious buyers always seeking the latest unique patterns and color combinations, I recommend also checking eBay regularly for Izod saltwater shirts.

Here you can often track down long out-of-stock colorways and limited edition prints that are no longer available from mainstream retailers.

Vintage Izod saltwater shirts from the 70s, 80s, and 90s also pop up on eBay all the time. So for savvy collectors or lovers of retro menswear, you can score some amazing finds on eBay.

Just be sure to carefully inspect seller photos and read item descriptions – then you can land amazing deals on rare Izod shirts eBay often turns up!

Ideal for Any Outdoor Occasion Under the Sun

Whether you’re a sailor, golfer, fisherman, beach lover, or just a guy who enjoys comfortable shirts – Izod saltwater shirts are a versatile year-round choice.

Here are just a few great scenarios where an Izod saltwater shirt can really come in handy:

• A day out on the boat fishing, sailing, or cruising near the coast
• Beach vacations, especially tropical destinations where it’s hot and humid
• Outdoor summer weddings, graduations, or family gatherings
• Backyard BBQs, picnics, or evening bonfires in the warmth of summer
• Golfing at scenic courses with abundant sun exposure
• Running weekend errands where you’ll be in and out of the car
• Casual day or night dates where you want a shirt that’s comfortable yet polished
• As a sharp replacement for stuffy corporate dress shirts at the office

So whether you’re Active by the water or enjoying landlocked summer fun, an Izod saltwater shirt adds style and comfort to any sunny occasion.

Dress It Up or Down For Work and Play

Another prime benefit of the Izod saltwater shirts is their versatility – fitting right in both at work occasions or relaxed weekends.

For workdays, just tuck a crisp solid or striped Izod saltwater shirt into tailored chinos or dress trousers. Pop a leather belt into the loops, and slide on some loafers or canvas sneakers for an office-appropriate ensemble.

Then for weekends off, untuck that same shirt over flat front shorts. Switch the shoes to boat shoes or sandals and now you’ve got a comfortable casual outfit, without even changing shirts!

The Izod saltwater shirt truly transitions seamlessly from professional looks for the office to laidback style at play.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Body Type

To find that just right fit from the Izod saltwater shirt line-up, keep these tips in mind for your body type:

• Slim Athletic Build – their tailored fit or extra slim fits will complement your frame
• Stocky or Muscular – try their classic or relaxed fits, size up for mobility
• Tall and Lanky – their fitted shirts in tall sizes were made for you
• Big & Tall – Izod saltwater shirts up to XXXL Tall accommodate larger frames
• Petite – size down for a trimmer look or shop Izod petites shirts

With various cuts available from Fitted to Relaxed, you’re sure to discover the perfect match for your proportions. Focus on fit through the chest and shoulders, and don’t hesitate to size up if needed.

Got Long Arms? Izod Saltwater Shirts Come in Tall Sizes

Finding shirts with sleeves long enough can be a challenge for tall guys. Izod provides a great solution with their saltwater shirts sized up to XXXLT to fit men over 6’3″.

As one pleased reviewer named Matt shares:

“Being 6’4″, I struggle to find shirts with long enough sleeves. But the XLT Izod saltwater shirts are excellent – the sleeves are long enough I can move comfortably without pulling at the cuffs. The fabric is light and the athletic cut flatters without being overly tight. After years of frustration I’m thrilled to have found these shirts!“

So fellow tall gentlemen, if standard sizes leave you tugging at too-short sleeves, be sure to seek out Izod’s extended sizing for saltwater shirts that truly fit.

Check Izod.com for Hard-to-Find Big & Tall Sizes

While you’ll find a range of regular sizes from Small to XX-Large at most retailers, for hard-to-find extended sizes like XXXL Tall or Big & Tall, shop directly at Izod.com.

In their online exclusive Signature Saltwater Shirt Big & Tall collection, they offer sizes up to 6XL and neck/sleeve measurements to fit gentlemen of all shapes and sizes.

Finding well-made, attractive shirts for big & tall men isn’t always easy. So Izod’s direct-to-consumer extended sizes ensure even guys with challenging proportions can enjoy the same classic style and water-ready performance. Kudos to Izod for being inclusive!

Comparison Shopping Can Save You up to 50%

While already reasonably priced for their quality, you can often save substantially on Izod saltwater shirts by shopping sales and comparing prices.

For example, Izod’s MSRP is typically $50 to $70 per shirt. But during sales events at Amazon, Macy’s, or Sierra Trading Post, you can snap them up for $25 to $35 – up to 50% off!

Even without sales, checking a few retailers can save you $5 to $10 per shirt. So it pays to have an eagle eye out for promotions and special deals on new Izod saltwater shirts. A little comparison shopping goes a long way.

##Returns Are Hassle-Free with Receipt & Tags

Most major retailers allow easy returns and exchanges on unworn Izod saltwater shirts within 30 to 90 days of purchase. To return or exchange an Izod shirt, be sure you have:

• Original receipt – Most stores can look up the purchase if you used a loyalty card
• Clothing tags – Must be attached with original price tags
• Unwashed & unworn – Can’t be worn, washed, or damaged

As long as your shirt meets those criteria, simply bring it back to the store along with your receipt and you should have no problem exchanging it for a different size or returning for a full refund.

It’s a good practice to try on new clothes at home to confirm fit – then you can easily swap if needed thanks to liberal return policies.

Follow the Washing Instructions to Avoid Shrinkage

To keep your saltwater shirts fitting great wash after wash, be sure to follow the care instructions on the tag or product listing:

• Machine wash cold with like colors
• Only non-chlorine bleach when needed
• Tumble dry low heat or line dry
• Avoid high heat from dryer or iron

The key is washing cold and avoiding high heat, which can result in excessive shrinkage. As long as you care for them properly, an Izod saltwater shirt should maintain its shape and size over many seasons of wear.

Take Precise Measurements Before Ordering Online

Since you can’t try on clothes when ordering online, it’s critical to take precise body measurements so you can match them against the shirt’s size chart.

Be sure to:

• Measure your best-fitting similar shirt
• Follow Izod’s instructions for measuring chest, waist, sleeve length
• Account for preferred ease/tightness of fit
• Confirm any desired tall or big & tall sizing

Matching your numbers against the size chart increases the chance of a great fit right off the bat. Just be sure to re-check returns policy in case an exchange is needed. With the right sizing, ordering online can be a breeze.

Timeless Style Never Goes Out of Fashion

While many clothing trends come and go, Izod saltwater shirts remain a timeless classic. Their versatile combination of comfort, quality, and preppy maritime style transcends fashion fads.

As one Izod enthusiast review shares:

“Izod saltwater shirts have been a summer staple of mine for the past 25 years or more. They always look sharp yet understated, and the designs are low-key enough to be worn year after year, long after other shirts would feel dated.“

So while other pieces in your wardrobe rotate in and out, quality Izod saltwater shirts should hold their stylish place for decades to come.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an avid mariner or just love their timeless style, Izod saltwater shirts deliver outstanding performance, comfort, and design. I hope this in-depth buying guide gives you all the information needed to choose your ideal shirts from Izod’s legendary saltwater collection.

With their smart tailoring, breezy fabric, and water-ready brawn, an Izod or two can anchor your warm weather wardrobe this season and for years beyond. So set sail with quality and happy shopping for your Izod saltwater shirts!