10 Best Hugo Boss Colognes for Men
Updated January 2023
How We Found the Best Hugo Boss Colognes
5 Experts Interviewed
13 Fragrances Tested
Top 10 Picks
Menu
Liam Carson
Hugo Boss was a European fashion pioneer and a man of pride, naming the brand after himself in 1924. A leading fashion brand often abbreviated to BOSS, the brand launched their fragrance line in the mid-’80s. Since then, the classic Hugo Boss fragrance has become world-renowned and highly coveted by men across the globe.
Hugo Boss has released a multitude of colognes, so there’s something for everyone. With so many high-end colognes to choose from, it’s hard to determine which is the best. But, we’ve put in the work for you and created a guide to the top 10 Hugo Boss colognes in 2021.
Summary List
Hugo Boss Fragrances Ranked by Cologne Critic
Why we chose it
A modern 2015 rework of the original Boss Bottled from 1998, its woody, spicy tones exude uber masculinity and alpha-male energy. Less sweet than the original, this one will certainly turn heads. The alluring fruity top notes of apple, bergamot and orange blossom are balanced out by the primal, earthy undertones of sandalwood, cedar and vetiver. A hint of vanilla adds a romantic, emotive touch.
This scent is on the strong side, long-lasting with a moderate to heavy projection. It’s ideal for dates, parties and special occasions when you want to make a certain kind of impression…It’s probably as close to a love perfume as you’ll get and might be the best smelling Hugo Boss cologne for that reason. Be warned!
Main Accords
- Woody
- Aromatic
- Warm Spicy
Our Take
The absolute classic Hugo Boss fragrance, Boss Number One was released in 1985, the first fragrance Hugo Boss ever launched. But, is it the best smelling Hugo Boss cologne? That’s a good question, and it’s really up to you to decide. Perfumist Pierre Wargnye created this one, and it packs a serious punch. It’s the heaviest, longest-lasting perfume on this list. Maybe that’s a product of its very long ingredients list… and the fact that strong colognes were very trendy in the ‘80s. If you’re looking for an ‘80s throwback scent to fill the room, Boss NO. 1 is for you. But, save it for nights out, will you!
Top notes include artemisia, green apple, juniper, lemon and grapefruit which blend to create a potent, shop-stopping mix. The deep smokey aroma of tobacco, cedar, sandalwood and amber underline the citrus top notes.
If you’re looking for a stand-out signature fragrance, one that will truly get heads turning, Boss NO.1 is an incredible fragrance to add to your collection.
Main Accords
- Woody
- Aromatic
- Fresh Spicy
Our Take
Also launched in 2015, The Scent is a statement cologne that’s seductive at its core. It evokes sensuality and passion with enigmatic, tangy ginger on top of the calming middle note of lavender. Maninka fruit, a natural aphrodisiac, makes this tempting combination irresistible.
Leather accord is a prominent and provocative base note, combined with woody notes that elicit undeniable attraction and magnetism. Think Marlon Brando and James Dean. 1950’s bad boy vibes. You won’t need the leather jacket though! With moderate projection and longevity, The Scent is an everyday cologne best for work and, perhaps, an after-work date. Your office crush is sure to be intrigued.
Main Accords
- Leather
- Aromatic
- Warm Spicy
Our Take
Created in 2006, Boss Selection echoes pride, confidence and elegance. It captures attention with bright, energetic top notes of grapefruit, mandarin and bergamot. Pink peppercorn adds a sprinkle of daring nature and intrigue, while woody and carnal middle notes of star anise, cedar and geranium bring it back down to earth.
You’ll need to top it up a few times throughout the day, but when you do, you might catch some eyes. Base notes of musk, vetiver and patchouli further evoke a moderate musky scent that’s best for work. This classic Hugo Boss fragrance is ideal for the confident yet down to earth kind of man.
Main Accords
- Citrus
- Musky
- Soft Spicy
Our Take
Unleash your inner daredevil with this provocative fragrance that launched in 2010. Encased in a black and midnight blue bottle the colour of the night, Bottled Night stays true to its name. With woody, musky base tones, you’ll exude masculinity and positive energy. Charming yet comforting top notes of lavender and birch tree will enhance your appeal, while a violet middle note sets the scene for romance.
Don’t be fooled by its name though, this Hugo Boss cologne isn’t limited to the night. Moderate in longevity and projection, it can take you from the office to the nightclub. You’ll need to wear it though, don’t let it wear you. You must exude the confidence it projects.
Main Accords
- Floral
- Woody
- Powdery
Our Take
Calling all athletes and gym-goers, Boss In Motion is for you. Domitille Michalon designed this scent with the athletic man in mind. It reflects action and strength, with vibrant and fresh top notes of orange, basil, violet and bergamot. Have you got a competitive streak? Boss In Motion is for the man that likes to show off a little. You can almost taste the bittersweet middle notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, awakening the senses and evoking images of vitality.
This refreshing fragrance will get you in the right mood to work out. Appropriate for the gym and work, Boss In Motion is an everyday scent that isn’t too strong with moderate projection.
Apply to your pulse points to keep you smelling fresh in the most intense of situations.
Main Accords
- Citrus
- Woody
- Warm Spicy
Our Take
Just Different is a 21st-century 2011 take on a classic Hugo Boss fragrance from the mid-90s. Something of a cologne cocktail, its top notes of green apple and fresh mint give it an intriguing scent. Opening up into aromatic, herbal tones of coriander, basil and freesia, it’ll take you on a fragrant journey. It really is different in the best possible way.
A base of Cashmeran and musk gives way to a luxurious, soft yet manly scent. It’s moderate in strength, so it’s a safe choice for all occasions. Its fruity, earthy tones put it in the spring/summer spectrum.
Main Accords
- Green
- Aromatic
- Warm Spicy
Our Take
The newest kid on the block, Hugo Boss Urban Journey came out in 2018. It’s inspired by images of the city and urban landscapes, ideal for the modern businessman or city-hopper. A spritz of Urban Journey before work is sure to put you in the right headspace for a day in the office. The pick-me-up combo of awakening green tea and Himalayan Whorlflower is an exotic, harmonising combination.
The bitter tea scent gives you a dose of energy while the floral musk is alluring to those around you. On the cusp of weak and moderate projection and longevity, this is good for those of you who want to be more subtle with your scent.
Main Accords
- Floral
- Green
- Woody
Our Take
Ode to the original Hugo Boss Bottled from the late ‘90s, another oldie that has earned a place in the top 10 Hugo Boss colognes in 2021. You can’t beat a classic! Sweet and citrusy top notes are the first scents that come across. When that aroma fades, refreshing, spicy middle notes of mahogany, carnation and cinnamon take center stage.
This vintage fragrance is attention-grabbing and provocative, with the woody, masculine base notes of sandalwood, cedar and vetiver pulling it all together. You could get away with Hugo Boss Bottled at work but be prepared for people to notice you. It is moderate in longevity and projection, but it’s on the stronger side.
Main Accords
- Fruity
- Woody
- Vanilla
Our Take
Launched in 2005, Hugo Boss Energise is an aromatic, soft blend. At the top is a strong citrus fragrance, balanced out by a hint of fresh mint and sharp pink peppercorn. Not just your usual lemon and orange, Energise’s tangy aroma comes from the addition of pineapple and kumquat. This lively combination is smoothed out by fresh and sweet jasmine, freesia and clary sage middle notes.
Hugo Boss Energise is great for the shy guy. You want to smell good, but you don’t want to go overboard. It’s still unique though, so you won’t completely blend into the crowd. Base notes of vanilla, leather and teak wood still give off an air of confidence and masculinity. It’s a versatile everyday scent for work, the gym, dates and nights out.
Main Accords
- Citrus
- Aromatic
- Soft Spicy
Expert Tips
Now that you’ve read through our best Hugo Boss cologne review and sussed out which Hugo Boss perfume is the best for you let’s learn some Hugo Boss history.
Hugo Boss launched in 1924, going strong for over 100 years now. Best known for their clothing line, sometimes their incredible fragrances get forgotten about. In the early days, Boss established a factory for Hugo Boss clothing in Metzinger, Germany. The brand ended up going bankrupt, but that didn’t stop them.
In 1931, brand ownership was transferred over to Boss’ son-in-law, Eugene Holy. In the ‘60s, the brand started crafting ready-made suits under Holy’s direction. Fast forward to 1985 when Hugo Boss entered the fragrance market and released the nostalgic 80’s favourite, Boss NO. 1.
And if your mind is not quite yet made up, take a look at our other reviews to find the perfect fragrance for you.
CologneCritic.com is a participant in the Amazon Services, LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
Researched by a team of fragrance experts.