Research shows that the solid cologne market is growing. It’s not hard to see why this trending product is such a hot commodity. The best solid colognes are aerosol and propellant-free, making them eco-friendly.
Moreover, solid colognes offer a milder scent than their liquid counterparts, so are much kinder to delicate noses. Also, as solid cologne is wax-based and doesn’t contain alcohol, it won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Spritzing yourself multiple times throughout the day will leave you smelling like your nearest department store cologne counter. Not to mention it’s not subtle to whip out a large spray bottle in the middle of the office or bar, choking those in your vicinity.
A modern-day alternative to traditional aftershave, the best solid colognes are a game-changer when you’re on the move. They won’t weigh down or leak into your gym bag, backpack, or briefcase.
If you’re an adventure addict, make solid cologne your new travel buddy. Their size and weight make them a solid choice for staying fresh when you’re limited on space. Most airlines don’t allow full-size bottles of liquid in carry-on. But pop-in-the-pocket, solid colognes are TSA-approved for travel.
Feeling extra? Layer your fragrances by blending two of the best solid colognes to create a one-of-a-kind scent. Laurice Rahme, founder of fragrance house Bond No.9, explains, “custom scents capture the personality of an individual.” She says to, “think of it as a mood ring for your nose.” There are no set rules when it comes to getting creative, but pairing scents that share similar notes is a great place to start.
So, what are you waiting for? Scroll down to level up your grooming game with the 8 best solid colognes for men.
Key Takeaways
Are you looking for a hassle-free, environmentally-friendly way to refresh your scent throughout the day? Then incorporate one of the best solid colognes into your grooming regime. From premium picks to best-loved brands and everything in-between, I’ve researched and reviewed the 8 best solid colognes for men. Now, all that’s left is for you to choose, click, and checkout.
The best solid colognes offer a kick-ass scent, respectable staying power, and a kind-to-skin formula. Right on the nose and scooping, the top prize is Occo Bobbo Cologne Balm.
I started digging deep into the world of solid cologne at a time when my skin was extra sensitive. The alcohol content of traditional fragrances aggravated the irritated areas around my neck. But, as a cologne junkie, I refused to surrender and give up rocking scents altogether.
Occo Bobbo Cologne balm handed me the solution. The cruelty-free, all-natural formula combines coconut oil, almond oil, beeswax, and phthalate-free fragrance. The formula is nourishing, and the No Boundaries scent is a worthy rival to some of the all-time best men’s fragrances.
Bergamot, pink lime, tangerine, cinnamon, vetiver, and sage are a combination that never fails. Sexy, sophisticated, and fresh; this solid cologne is a worthy washbag staple.
Top Notes: Bergamot, pink lime, tangerine | Middle Notes: Limewood, sage, cinnamon bark | Base notes: Vetiver and orange flower | Size: 2 oz | Season: Spring, summer, fall
Mr Gladstone Solid Cologne busts the myth that you must sacrifice longevity when switching to solid cologne for men.
Inspired by opulent 1932 Shangai, Cathay is a captivating scent for confident guys. Woody, fresh, and intriguing, with notes of mandarin, honey, vanilla, amber, musk and sandalwood. This old-world scent is just as relevant now. The perfect wingman for date nights and prowling the cocktail bar.
The 0.5oz tin is ideal for discreetly slipping into your jacket pocket. Although smaller than most solid colognes, the firm texture means you won’t rip through the product.
Boasting 8 hours of wear, Cathay joins the ranks of some of the best long-lasting colognes for men. Slide open, swipe, and dab. To help the product apply smoothly, warm the cologne under your fingertip for a few seconds.
Top Notes: Mandarin| Middle Notes: Honey, musk | Base notes: Sandalwood, vanilla, amber Size: 0.5oz | Season:, Fall, winter
Woodsy scents are undeniably masculine, earthy, and rich. They’re also the best fragrances to reach for in the fall.
Duke Cannon Solid Cologne in Birchwood is a nature-inspired blend of citrus, wood, amber, and musk notes. Imagine hiking through a forest on a day when the sun is shining, and you’re not far off.
Duke Cannon nailed their formula. The organic, concentrated balm melts instantly on the fingertips. Not only does that make for a fuss-free application, but it also means the scent starts projecting from the get-go.
I find Birchwood lasts around 3-4 hours on my skin which is a sound performance from a solid cologne. Birchwood is a casual companion for laidback days at the lake, beers with your buddies, and outdoor dates.
Top Notes: Lemon, bergamot | Middle Notes: N/A | Base notes: Aged wood, amber, white musk | Size: 1.5oz | Season: Spring, fall
Let’s face it, gents, in the 21st century; it’s not acceptable to ignore our grooming routine’s impact on the environment. It’s time to put our big boy pants on and start making smarter choices about the products we use.
Outlaw Solid Cologne has entered the chat. Their solid cologne for men ticks all the boxes for the conscious consumer. Kind to animals with natural ingredients and recyclable packaging, this solid cologne is a winner.
The scent lineup offers rugged, sexy scents for modern men. But The Gambler really brings home the bacon and is one of my all-time favorite winter scents.
So, if you’re on the prowl for a killer scent to get down and dirty with, this combination of boozy bourbon, smoky tobacco, and earthy leather will have you hitting the high notes.
Top Notes: Bourbon | Middle Notes: Tobacco | Base notes: Leather | Size: 1oz | Season: Fall, winter
When choosing your next warm-weather wonder, opt for one of the best solid colognes. Woodies Solid Cologne in The Beach is the ultimate summer scent and a budget-friendly fragrance for guys who prefer to save than splurge.
When the days stretch longer, I find myself reaching for lighter scents that don’t overpower. The sliding tin opens to reveal an aquatic-inspired balm with cool marine notes, island spices, and beachy woods. A swipe on the wrist of this solid cologne for men leaves a subtle dose of scent that lasts 4-6 hours.
The Beach is my go-to solid cologne when I head off on summer vacation. As loyal as I am to my liquid fragrances, I don’t love weighing down my travel bag with fragile glass bottles. That’s where solid colognes come in clutch. Plus, the formula is firm, so it won’t melt as easily in high temperatures.
Top Notes: Marine notes | Middle Notes: Spices | Base notes: Woody notes | Size: 1.13oz | Season: Summer
When my partner gifted me my first solid cologne, I spent the following week liberally smearing it on my mouth.
Impressed with the musky scent but confused about why my chops weren’t extra smooth, I finally checked the label. That’s when I realized my “lip balm” was a solid cologne. Aromi Solid Cologne in the scent Urban Gent to be precise.
Once I figured out how to apply the balmy product, I couldn’t understand why I’d never used a solid cologne for men before. The ultra-light packaging could be thrown into my gym bag, fitted in my trouser pocket, and didn’t come with an eyewatering price tag.
Urban gent is a clean blend of musk, vetiver, amber, white pepper, citrus, and wood. Arguably one of my favorite musk colognes, it’s ideal for times when you want to smell put-together and shower-fresh.
Top Notes: Citrus, white pepper | Middle Notes: Vetiver, spice | Base notes: Amber, woods, cedar, musk | Size: 1oz | Season: Spring, fall
How we smell has a stellar impact on the first and lasting impression we have on everyone we meet. And one thing’s for sure, the best solid colognes for young guys shouldn’t be dated or aging. You don’t want to smell like you swiped your dad’s Old Spice.
Bush Klawz Cologne Balm in Pacific Prince is a vibrant blend of zesty citrus and invigorating peppermint. Pacific Prince is a great cologne for spring. I’m not saying it’s an alternative, but I’d put this in the same fragrance family as Versace Eros. Think Eros for the club and Pacific Prince for a coffee date.
If you’re new to the world of solid cologne for men, then you want one that’s tried and tested by your peers. Bush Klawz is a favorite amongst Amazon customers scoring 4.5 stars with over 1,000 reviews.
Top Notes: Grapefruit, peppermint | Middle Notes: Ginger, jasmine | Base notes: Bergamot | Size: 1oz | Season: Spring, summer
Bring class to your solid cologne lineup with Jo Malone’s Solid Perfume Duo. British brand Jo Malone is infamous for its sophisticated, unisex scent range.
The Energetic Solid Perfume Pair combines two much-loved fragrances: Blackberry & Bay and Lime Basil & Mandarin. The silky-smooth formula applies like a boss, spreading evenly, leaving no sticky residue.
Plus, the premium packaging is as luxe as the scents within. The compact square container swivels open to reveal two pans of solid cologne. Better yet, the pans are refillable, and you can swap them out with other fragrances depending on the occasion.
The container is weightier than typical aluminum solid cologne packaging. So, storing it in a washbag rather than in a pocket when you’re on the move is best.
(Blackberry & Bay) Top Notes: Blackberry & Bay | Middle Notes: Bay leaves | Base notes: Cedarwood
(Lime Basil & Mandarin) Top Notes: Mandarin, lime| Middle Notes: Basil | Base notes: Amberwood | Size: 2 x 2.5g | Season: Spring, summer, fall
What to Look for in the Best Solid Colognes
Consistency
Solid colognes are typically wax-based. Yet, not all solid colognes are created equal. Take Duke Cannon’s Solid Cologne in Birchwood. Its creamy, light texture means you don’t need to warm the product before applying. Great news in cooler months. Meanwhile, others, like The Beach by Woodies, are firmer and less likely to melt in high summer temperatures.
Regardless of whether you’re opting for a hard or creamy solid cologne, one thing’s for sure. The consistency of the best solid colognes makes them more stable than their liquid relatives.
As cologne aficionado Dave Johnson of the Fragrance Bros points out, “the great benefit that solid colognes have over liquid colognes is they’re not susceptible to the perfume killers of light, heat, and oxygen… It’s not gonna ruin any of the notes inside it because it’s housed in wax.”
Packaging
Most plastic or metal containers hold 0.5-2.5 oz of product, making them discreet to use. Plus, their handy size makes them ideal for putting in your pocket or bag without fear of breakages. The type of container you choose depends on how you plan to use your fragrance.
If you’re taking your solid cologne travelling, opt for a lightweight aluminum tin that holds around 1oz of product. Like Bush Klawz Cologne Balm in Pacific Prince. Special occasion or a hot date? I love the premium packaging of the Jo Malone Solid Perfume Duo. The heavyweight, all-black, swivel container is boujee enough that you’ll actually want to people to catch you applying it.
Scent
If you thought solid cologne for men was only available in generic, uninspiring scents, think again. Just like with classic liquid fragrances, you can choose a solid cologne that showcases your favorite notes. If vibrant, sexy citrus is your go-to, check out Occo Bobbo Cologne Balm in No Boundaries. When you need a clean, grownup scent to wear to work, try my go-to, Aromi Solid Cologne in Urban Gent.
For rich, rugged, and downright dirty vibes, reach for Outlaw Solid Cologne in The Gambler with notes of tobacco and leather. Solid cologne is a great way to play around with these intense notes in a formula that’s not overpowering. Whatever your unique scent style, the best solid colognes have you covered.
Final Verdict
There are dozens of reasons to welcome one of our best solid colognes into your fragrance family. From their portable size and propellant-free packaging to their mild formula and nose-friendly scents, solid colognes for men are a win for your skin and the environment.
No solid cologne is better proof of this than Occo Bobbo Cologne Balm in No Boundaries. Boasting a mouthwatering citrus scent and moisture-rich formula, this cruelty-free solid cologne is the crème de la crème.
FAQ
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For solid cologne, think balm or a bar of soap. To apply, swipe clean fingers over the surface a few times. If the texture is very firm, gently rub a small amount between your fingertips to warm it. Next, dab onto your pulse points like the inside of the wrists, behind the ears, and neck. As it warms on the skin, its scent will unfold. The great thing about solid cologne is that it’s easy to reapply throughout the day.
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There are no winners and losers here. For me, it depends on why, when, and where I will use it. There are a few benefits to choosing a solid over a spray. Most spray colognes contain alcohol and other chemical ingredients. In contrast, solid colognes contain natural and most often organic ingredients. Unlike sprays, solid colognes are portable, discreet to apply, and kinder on the wallet.
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Rather than a liquid, solid cologne is a highly concentrated perfume in solid form. It’s this level of concentration that gives the fragrance its depth. They are usually made from shea butter, beeswax, or other moisturizing ingredients. Rather than spraying, dab solid cologne on your pulse points.
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