Perry Ellis 360 Red Men’s Cologne Review

It is important to note that not all worthwhile fragrances are super expensive or even moderately priced. Sure, the cheaper scents tend to use more synthetic ingredients and are generally less complex and more linear but that doesn’t preclude some from smelling quite good. Today, I want to review one such cologne, 360 Red by Perry Ellis. In this post, I want to give my impressions of it and see just what makes it a potential buy. Also see: 360 Red vs Nautica Voyage

What does 360 Red by Perry Ellis Smell Like?

Notes include: bergamot, cinnamon, lime, orange, lavender, spices

Click here to try: 360° Red by Perry Ellis for Men, 6.8 Ounce

My Full Review

360 Red gets a lot of attention for being in the opinion of some, an Acqua Di Gio clone.  I definitely notice the similarities between these two scents but I think 360 Red’s citrus notes are stronger and more defined than they are in Acqua Di Gio. It’s only right that they smell similar judging by the overlapping of some of each cologne’s notes.

However, I don’t want to get bogged down in comparison with an Armani fragrance when 360 Red presents an interesting fragrance at a fraction of the cost.

The opening is a pretty intense burst of mostly lemon and lime notes which exudes freshness right from the start. Now, it can be kind of overpowering at first but 360 Red settles down nicely and develops much more character as it wears on.

This one actually has a whole host of citrus based notes, from lime to orange, and bergamot. It’s going to be very citrus heavy throughout, with a spicy edge to it.

With the citrus in the opening, are an accord of spice, led by cinnamon. Cinnamon and some clove, are mainly what you’re going to pick up, on the skin. There is supposedly nutmeg in there too, but I can’t pick it out, if that’s the case. It is indeed quite close to AdG, but without the oceanic influences.

As it settles down, the spicier notes begin to flourish more. Again, this isn’t an overwhelming spice, rather, something that is smooth (sort of peppery) and envelops a definite warmth. This is definitely an attractive fragrance and one with just a hint of cinnamon to give a unique distinction.

Much later in the wear, I get touches of lavender, and a woodsy base. It’s fresh and pretty dry later on, though, it doesn’t dominate the composition. 360 Red is still all about the citrus and spice notes. However, it is a nice change of pace, to develop things further.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Longevity wise, this one is a performer. Seriously, for the price, it’s pretty much an all day scent in most circumstances. Projection is moderate to very good. It’s not a heavy or overwhelming scent but you’ll notice it on you for sure.

Could you overspray this? Sure, but normal application isn’t going to choke out a room. I would expect anywhere from 6-9 hours of wear, depending on the climate, and circumstances of when you’re wearing it.

Versatility wise, this is going to lean more towards younger men. It’s not a complete teenage scent, but most older guys can opt for something better. 360 Red operates best in the warmer months, definitely a good daily wear candidate for late spring and summer.

It has a certain level of attractiveness. It smells good, but not necessarily sexy. A younger man, could wear this on an evening out no problem, though.

Casual, school, office, and potentially evening for the right occasion. So, you do get a wide berth of uses, with Red. That’s great news for something, at this price point, where colognes are usually extremely limited in use and performance.

Overall Impression of 360 Red

Do I think 360 Red is worth a purchase? Yes, it is a great value pick and if you like Acqua Di Gio or similar scents, you might as well save some money and get this and a bottle of something else for the same price.

Honestly, the original AdG probably isn’t even worth buying nowadays, since we have so many other options. This or Just Me for Men, can replace the Armani scent. Also, Acqua di Gio Profumo, is a better fragrance overall.

With 360 Red, I really dig the citrus strength of the opening, and the cinnamon note. It’s a bit sweet, spicy, and you have enough woody notes to keep it interesting. 360 Red has freshness and a drier base, than does Acqua di Gio, in lieu of sea notes.

All in all, this Perry Ellis cologne is a great pick up, for guys who want something cheap with a mass appeal.

Best Men's Colognes

Best Men’s Colognes started back in 2013, as a way to share my learning experiences with different fragrances, as I dove head first into the hobby. Since then, I have written hundreds of reviews and other pages about perfumes and colognes.