The Best Summer Colognes for Hot Days, According to a Fragrance Snob

The Scent of Peace Natural’s elevated twist on citrus makes it an easy pick for any man looking for a tangy, unique cologne this summer. Lemon and black currant notes are carried by an Ambroxan and cedar base for a scent that is light, polished, and refreshing.

During hot, sweaty days a fresh and sunny cologne can go a long way in presenting your best self. Musky Sandalwood is just that, with a scent profile that is subtle and clean. The floral notes of lily of the valley, neroli, and jasmine add brightness without making the fragrance feel overly floral, making it a great unisex pick for daytime wear.

Woody colognes work especially well for nighttime events because they feel refined without becoming overpowering in warm weather. Cypress & Grapevine is an unorthodox approach to the category with notes of Mediterranean foliage, making it a great pick for summer dinners, rooftop drinks, and nights out.

On the edgier side of summer colognes, Hawthorne’s Studded Smoke features classically masculine leather and wood notes that are balanced by the surprising inclusion of blackberry. The cologne is formulated at parfum concentration despite its low price tag, meaning it sticks around for a long time. For men who don’t want to give up their smokey leather fragrances in the summer, it’s hard to beat.

As the name suggests, eucalyptus is the star note of this cologne, accented gently by other woody notes like cypress, dry leaves, and wet wood. It’s a fresh-from-the-spa kind of fragrance that pairs perfectly with summer heat for a calm, laidback feel. Want other fresh cologne options? Check out my list of the best colognes for spring.

Sometimes the best scents aren’t ones that project far or announce themselves loudly. Rinse Cycle mimics the freshness of clean laundry in a way that’s nuanced and appealing, perfect for picnics and daytime outings.