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It’s rarely seen but often used. It’s one of the most personal things we own, but we bring it out and share its contents when needed.
Of course, we’re talking about wallets! These compact money holders are one of the most important accessories we carry, even as we progress into the digital age. The epitome of small but mighty in the world of fashion and accessories, getting a new wallet is something you’ll need to put a lot of thought into.
Whether you’re upgrading an old style or you just want to diversify your collection, we’re sharing our top tips on how to choose the best wallet below!
How Many Types Of Wallets Are There?
Before you start shopping, it’s good to have an understanding of the different types of wallets for men available. It’ll help you narrow down what you’re looking for, so you can have a smoother shopping experience.
Here are the 5 most popular men’s wallet styles on the market:
- Cardholder wallet. As the name suggests, this type of wallet can only hold cards. It’s perfect for minimalists and people who don’t use cash. Cardholder wallets are very sleek, made up of only card slots and maybe an ID pocket.
- ID wallet. These are similar to cardholders, mainly featuring card slots and ID pockets. Some ID wallets may have a small pocket for cash. They tend to be square shaped, whereas some cardholder wallets have a rectangular shape to accommodate more cards.
- Slim or bifold wallet. Ideal for those who only like a metaphorically fat wallet, slim wallets are exactly what they sound like. They usually have an open fold design with storage solutions for cards and bills, and close to a slim square or rectangle that can easily slide in a pocket without taking up too much space.
- Trifold wallet. If you carry a lot of cards and regularly use cash, you might want the extra space of a trifold wallet. It unfolds to reveal three compartments for cards and ID or small photos of your loved ones. Trifold wallets also have an extra back pocket for bills, and may contain a zippered compartment for coins.
- Long wallet. If you want extra storage space for all your cards and cash but you don’t like wallets that are bulky when folded, you’ll appreciate the rectangular shape of a long wallet. You can expect ample storage space for cards and cash - the elongated design means that coins are easy to reach in their compartment, and bills can lay flat. The downside is this design might not fit in a pocket.
Men’s Wallet Buying Guide: The Top Features To Consider When Buying A Wallet
Now that you know more about the different types of wallets, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of their features and details. They’ll be just as important as the look of the wallet — after all, the way we use wallets is much different than the way we use accessories like scarves or sunglasses. Quality is always important, but everyone has their own preferences when it comes to accessibility and storage.
With that said, here are the 6 most important features and details to consider when shopping for a wallet.
Size
Size absolutely matters when it comes to wallets! There’s no size that’s universally best when it comes to wallets — it’s a very personal choice.
To help you decide what size will suit your needs most, ask yourself the following questions …
- How will you be carrying your wallet? In your pocket, or in a bag? If you’re a pocket kind of person, how sleek or bulky would you want your wallet to be? If you prefer bags, what’s a size that will make your wallet easy to store and find when you need it?
- How many cards do you have? Do you carry cash? You’ll need a wallet that easily accommodates your essentials, so choose the size accordingly.
- Do you have a preference for shape? Rectangular wallets tend to be bigger than square wallets, though square wallets can feel bulkier.
Compartments & Functionality
Next, you’ll want to find a design that marries your ideal size with the perfect amount of storage space. You can stick with a simple card holder or ID wallet if you don’t use cash, otherwise you’ll need to make sure your wallet has separate pockets for coins and bills.
A helpful exercise is counting the amount of cards you have, so you’ll know exactly how many card slots you’ll need in your wallet.
Security & Accessibility
Your wallet hosts some of your most valuable possessions, so you’ll want to make sure that …
- They’re easy for you to access when you need them
- They’re safe from unwanted exposure
Choose your wallet closure wisely. A straight card holder or open fold design is easy to open but slightly less secure, so is best suited for those who like keeping their wallets as close to them as possible. A zipper or button closure adds an extra layer of security, which is better if you plan on keeping your wallet in a bag.
Wallet chains are also a great solution for extra security, since they’ll ensure your wallet is always attached to your body. They also create an edgy biker or rocker aesthetic, which is a bonus for many!
Material & Durability
The material of your wallet massively influences its durability and overall quality. Some might like the casual feel of canvas or the waterproof nature of nylon, but there’s one material you can’t beat when it comes to resilience and longevity: classic leather.
Leather is one of the strongest materials out there; a good quality leather wallet can last decades! It can easily withstand daily wear-and-tear since it’s stain and water-resistant. It’s also naturally breathable and prevents moisture buildup, which means your cards and cash will remain safe and dry. Plus, you can’t beat leather’s timeless appeal and unique patina, which ensures it’ll age beautifully.
Aesthetic & Design
Of course, it’s not all about function. Get yourself a wallet that you also love the look of. This could mean a clean, minimal design or an edgy biker wallet, depending on your personal style. Choose the color, texture, details, and finishes that appeal to you!
Price
Finally, make sure the wallet fits your desired budget — but be sure to think ahead. It’s always smart to consider cost-per-use when you’re shopping for wallets (or anything, really). What this means is thinking of the cost in relation to the number of times you’ll use the wallet. It’s a practice that shows the true value of the item.
Say you’re looking at a $20 polyester wallet and a $150 leather wallet. The leather wallet has a higher price tag, but it’s one that might stay with you for a decade, even with daily use. The polyester wallet might be cheaper initially, but it also might start falling apart after just a few months, forcing you to buy another wallet in a short span of time. Cost-per-use reveals that the $150 wallet is actually more cost-effective in the long run, and therefore the smarter investment.
Remember, your wallet is one of the most personal items you’ll ever own. Take your time when shopping, and keep the above tips in mind to ensure you find the perfect wallet for your lifestyle.
