Men's Aran sweaters and cardigans are traditional Irish knitwear handcrafted in Ireland from 100% pure merino wool, featuring distinctive cable, honeycomb, diamond, and trellis stitch patterns — each carrying symbolic meaning rooted in centuries of Irish coastal heritage.

At The Irish Store, our men's collection spans classic crew neck pullovers, shawl collar cardigans, zip-front styles, and elegant button-through cardigans. Every piece is made by skilled artisans in the west of Ireland, certified authentic, and ships worldwide from Dublin with free returns. Also explore our dedicated men's fisherman sweaters collection for the original coastal style.

Aran cardigans are among the most versatile pieces in Irish knitwear. The Heritage Aran Shawl Collar Button Cardigan — with its wide rolled collar and deep rib hem — is an enduring Irish classic that pairs equally well with a shirt and chinos or worn casually over a t-shirt. The  Aran Zip Cardigan offers a more contemporary silhouette while preserving every traditional stitch detail.

All Aran cardigans in this collection are made from 100% merino wool  — making them a popular choice as Irish gifts for him. For women's styles, browse our women's Aran sweaters and cardigans.

All pieces are certified authentic Irish knitwear, made by skilled artisans in the west of Ireland. See our delivery information page for full shipping details.

What is the difference between an Aran sweater and an Aran cardigan?

An Aran sweater is a pullover worn over the head with no front opening, while an Aran cardigan opens at the front with buttons or a zip. Both feature traditional Aran stitch patterns and are crafted from 100% merino wool. Cardigans are often more versatile for layering.

What occasions are Aran cardigans suitable for?

Men's Aran sweaters and cardigans suit a wide range of occasions. A shawl collar cardigan works well for smart-casual settings when paired with a shirt and chinos; lighter crew neck styles are ideal for everyday wear; and heavier wool versions are well suited to outdoor activities in cold or damp conditions. They also make thoughtful and popular Irish gifts for him.

How should men's Aran knitwear be sized?

Aran knitwear is traditionally worn with a relaxed fit — choosing one size up gives a classic look, while your usual size offers a more fitted style. Detailed chest measurements are available on each product page. You can also explore our hand knitted Aran cardigans & sweaters for more traditional pieces.

How do I care for a merino wool Aran sweater?

Merino wool Aran sweaters should be hand washed in cool water with a wool-safe detergent, or dry cleaned. Always lay flat to dry — never tumble dry or wring, as heat and agitation can cause shrinkage and distort the stitch patterns. With proper care, a quality Aran sweater will last for many years.

Need help choosing the right sweater? Check out our guide to our Men's Top 5 Irish Sweaters right here