How many wallets you need will be determined by what you like to do.
A smart wallet might be great for a formal occasion, but it gets ruined on your next camping trip.
A card holder is great for a minimalist approach, but not good when you're going through an airport.
Below are the 4 wallets I own, and why I like them, which hopefully helps you make your own decision:
Professional Day-to-Day Settings: The Leather Bifold
The leather bifold is great for regular office and daily needs.
It is practical, functional, and holds everything you need it to.
A space for cards, cash, and coins - great for keeping organized while on the move.
I own this one, and love the quality of the leather.
Weddings and Formal Events: The Slim Card Holder
A slim wallet won’t disrupt the lines of a good suit and will keep a few essential items on you while at formal events.
You won’t likely need much, but a few business cards and a little cash to pass on to the happy couple are perhaps things you want handy.
The image above is of this card holder.
Casual Outdoors: The Durable Canvas Wallet
In situations where your wallet might get wet, dirty, or take a beating, a rugged canvas wallet is a great choice.
It will keep your things protected and it doesn’t matter as much if the wallet shows the scars.
They are also less expensive in most cases.
Traveling Abroad: The Passport Wallet
Image: Travel Wallet (link)
When you need something big enough to hold a passport and foreign cash, which is often larger than American bills, a passport wallet does the trick.
Your cash, cards, and travel documents can be safe and close to hand.
RFID blocking technology is a common add-on for this kind of wallet too.
It just takes one less step out of the traveling process, which is a great stress relief when dashing to an airport check-in que.
Managing Your Wallet Collection
If you can develop a collection of four kinds of wallet, you will have a luxurious set of options perfect for any situation.
- The leather bifold—great for everyday personal and professional use.
- The slim card holder—perfect for more formal events, or suit days.
- The canvas wallet—best for more rugged outdoor adventures, or wetter conditions.
- The passport wallet—great for international travel.
The right wallet for the right situation will elevate your experience in the best possible way. You’ll be ready for any situation, and your preparation will come across as effortless.
How do I care for and maintain these different types of wallets?
Leather Wallets: Condition the wallet, with a quality leather conditioner, two or three times a year. It just takes a minute, and will keep your wallet looking great. Don’t overfill your wallet, as this can stretch the leather permanently out of shape. Avoid excessive moisture, and extremes of heat or cold.
Canvas Wallets: Soap and water – sometimes even the washing machine – can take care of a cavass wallet. Scrubbing with an old toothbrush will help get out any tough stains. Allow the wallet to dry out completely before use after cleaning.
Passport Wallets: If the wallet is leather, treat it the same as explained above. For other materials, wiping with a damp cloth and allowing it to dry should be sufficient.
Are there any alternatives to these types of wallets for those who prefer a minimalist approach?
For the best in minimalism, look at a slim cardholder.
Money clips are small and light too – great for just those essentials.
If you really don't want to carry anything, then folded up cash in your back pocket is as minimalist as it can get!
What is the best material for a wallet?
For most wallets, we recommend choosing full-grain leather (see why here).
Although canvas is best if you think the wallet will get scratchd (eg when using in outdoor pursuits).
Author: Igor Monte
Igor Monte is the co-founder of Von Baer. He's an expert in all things premium leather, from being an end-user right up to the design and manufacturing process. His inside knowledge will help you choose the best leather product for you.
