Our take
What does Polo Sport smell like?
Sixteen years after Polo, Ralph Lauren launched Polo Sport in 1994. Sources credit the formula to Harry Fremont of Firmenich. Context matters here. This was the era of Cool Water and L'Eau d'Issey Pour Homme, when freshness became the male default. The opening lines up aldehydes, mint and lavender. Citrus follows with bergamot, mandarin and lemon. It is brisk and soapy, slightly metallic. The heart brings in seagrass that smells of sea spray, along with ginger and geranium. Jasmine, cyclamen and rose stay in the background. The base is plain: musk, sandalwood, cedar and guaiac wood. A little amber rounds it off. Compared with Cool Water, Polo Sport is less sweet and more aromatic. It keeps a clean locker room feel, which is both its charm and what dates it. Current longevity is weak, around three hours.
When to wear it
A summer scent for the gym, the beach or the weekend. Spray generously, since it fades fast.
It belongs to the Aquatic, Aromatic family. Polo Sport is one of 10 creations by Ralph Lauren in our encyclopedia.
