Your Ultimate Guide to Men’s Wallets

The most important aspect of your everyday carry

Written by Salvatore Marashi

Every man needs a wallet. Wallets are not only are an extension of one’s fashion sense, but also a necessary everyday carry item for toting around the things you need to get through the day.  That being said, wallets are often overlooked when it comes to cultivating a wardrobe.  Here’s everything you need to know about maintaining the one you have or finding a new wallet that will update your look.

Common Mistakes

Before we get into wallet types and materials, let’s first talk wallet care.  One of the first and biggest mistakes you can make that will really shorten your wallet’s lifespan is stuffing it to the brim.  Hey, good for you if you’ve got paper like Al Pacino from Scarface, but even he could benefit from trimming things down.  Cash is great to have in your wallet, but just be sure to keep it light.  Only carry with you what you actually need.  You can always run to the bank and get more cash.  Additionally, leave coins at home, (but keep quarters in your car for parking) as they will add unnecessary weight to your wallet.  Another thing you should leave out are condoms.   They break down after extended periods in your wallet, and can cause a ring indentation to form.  Not good. 

So what should be in your wallet?  We say, keep it simple.  A debit card, credit card, I.D and maybe one or two more cards of importance are all you should have.  Everything else can be kept at home or in the bank.  Not only does this keep your wallet from becoming an unsightly bulge in your pocket, but it’s also a safe practice in case it ever gets misplaced or stolen.

Types of Wallets

if you’re in the market for a new wallet, there are a few more things to consider.  Choosing the type of wallet is as important for style as it is for function.  Here are the different types and some considerations to take.

Billfolds

Billfolds come in two basic types: bi-fold and tri-fold.  These are the classic wallets you’d associate with a professional.  Often made of leather, they’re as attractive as they are functional.  This is a timeless choice and certainly a top pick for any gentleman.

Save: Cali Passecase, Perry Ellis $18 | Spend: Coach Slim Billfold, Coach $125

Super Slim Wallets

Only made to hold a few cards, super slim wallets are a great way to keep the size of your wallet minimized.  They also have the added benefit of making almost no impression in your pocket, so they won’t ruin the look of your tailored pants. Typically made with leather, they still maintain their mature look, while cutting down on bulk.  These wallets also tend to keep their shape better, making them a good alternative to the classic billfolds.

Save: MINI POLYCARBONATE, HUMN $19.95 | Spend: Hampshire Slim Sleeve, Rag and Bone $125

Sport Wallets

Sport wallets are good for exactly what you think they’d be good for.  They are a bit sturdier and keep contents secured while on a run or working out at the gym.  Often times, they are water resistant and made of synthetic materials so they won’t crack from heat or use.  While sports wallets are necessary for what they’re made for, get one in addition to–not in replacement of–your everyday wallet.

Save: Base Camp Wallet, North Face $25 | Spend:  Y-S Sports Wallet, VRNTS $155

Money Clips

Money clips are simplicity incarnate.  They are an easy and effective way to carry a few cards or bills, and they fit nicely in a suit jacket’s breast pocket.  Also, money clips can be made from many types of materials, from classic leather to steel.  They can also come in cool designs, giving you another way to up your flair. 

Save:  Ingram Money Clip, Fossil $25 | Spend:  Money Clip, Tumi $75

Travel Wallets

When traveling abroad, naturally you’re going to being carrying more stuff.  Instead of filling your wallet to the gills, opt for a travel wallet.  Made to hold passports and other forms of identification, travel wallets are crucial for long stays abroad.  They can be made with any material to fit your needs.  Leather looks work great for business trips while waterproof materials keep everything safe when you’re out adventuring.  This being said, they’re not for daily use and should never be relegated as such.

Save: Leather RFID Passport Case, Fossil $55 | Spend: Burnished Leather Narrow Wallet, Polo Ralph Lauren $95

Phone Case Wallets

For the minimalists out there, phone case wallets are ideal.  With the need to have more and more stuff in your pockets, phone case wallets reduce the clutter.  While not as professional as a billfold wallet, they do get the job done.

Save:  Solo, Azalea $40 | Splurge:  Plus Wallet, J.W Hulme $145

Wallets, like watches, are an underrated wardrobe and style staple.  There are tons of different versions out there.  Shop around, and when you find that perfect wallet, take the time to take care of it so it’ll last you for the long haul.

Salvatore Marashi

SOURCE: THE GENTLEMANUAL