There are certain casual men’s style staples that, if you ask me, tend to get a bad rep of sorts. The quarter-zip sweater very well might be one of ’em, at least the way some brands make it: While ultra-useful for performance on the links and even as a lightweight, moisture-wicking travel sweater (a favorite way of mine to wear one!), there are some quarter-zip sweaters that lean a little too, well, corporate logo-heavy. But a better way is possible, and Buck Mason is on the case, folks.

And while there’s nothing wrong with rocking one at a work conference, what about a better and more casually rugged way to wear the quarter-zip sweater? As with most modern casual style essentials for men, the good folks at Buck Mason have devised the perfect way to get back to the functional roots of the zip sweater, and the Buck Mason Seafarer Cotton Quarter Zip is a prime example of a new way to look at one of the best sweaters for men, period. Let’s take a closer look, shall we?

The Buck Mason Seafarer Cotton Quarter Zip takes its cues from vintage athletic wear, using a thick vertical cardigan rib knit design and fully fashioned construction for a burly, rugged take on the quarter-zip.

With its thick, sturdy collar, the Buck Mason Seafarer Cotton Quarter Zip manages to stand out from the pack, at least in my book — that holds true whether worn atop an Oxford shirt with dark blue jeans at the office, or with merino wool joggers more casually around the house or during a weekend coffee run. If it’s versatile style in a quarter-zip sweater that you seek, then the Buck Mason Seafarer Cotton Quarter Zip is the one to watch for this season.

With its yarn-dyed and garment-rinsed build, the Buck Mason Seafarer Cotton Quarter Zip also should feel plenty supple and comfortable right out of the box, while the ribbed collar and chest pocket add stylish detailing to a fresh take on a classic sweater for men. Available in two colors (the crisp India Ink and the eye-catching Sand Dollar), this new casual style staple should prove as wearable with expertly faded denim as with stretch chinos or corduroy trousers to round out the rest of winter. For an inspired take on a tried-and-true classic, reach for the Buck Mason Seafarer Cotton Quarter Zip, my friends.