Types of Wallets for Men (and How to Choose)

Today we’ll be breaking down the many different wallet styles for men.

Wallets are a must-have accessory for men. Having one is the safest and most convenient way to carry documentation, cash, and cards.

They can also be a subtle yet striking fashion statement.

While not quite as prominent as what you wear or what you have on your wrist, the wallet can show off your status and style well. 

It is important to choose the right fashion accessory suitable for a particular lifestyle, dressing style, and workplace. 

If you are looking for a good model, you will find all the information you need to make a good choice in this buying guide.

Wallets for Men

A men’s wallet is a small item designed to place bills, cards, identity documents, or even coins, and transfer them discreetly in a jacket or trouser pocket.

They are traditionally flat and rectangular. 

The most popular men’s wallet types are usually made from high-quality leather, but you can also find them in faux leather, fabric, and synthetic materials. 

There are a wide variety of types, sizes, reliefs, colors, textures, and compartments.

Types of Men Wallets

Men’s wallets come in all shapes and sizes, so you have absolutely no excuse not to find the perfect option for your lifestyle.

There are wallets for the minimalist, the hoarder, and the cash-holder. Wallets to wrap around your waist and tie onto your shoe. Wallets for travel and wallets for protecting against identity theft. 

There are even wallets that will carry your phone, as well as any cards and cash you need.

What follows is an extensive list of what we believe are some of the most common – and most useful – types of wallets for every situation.

Classic Wallet

This is the most widely used type of wallet. 

The classic wallet has small dimensions so that it can be stored in the pocket of the jacket or pants. 

Sometimes it has a compartment for coins like men’s wallets with purses. 

You can find this common type of wallet in leather, synthetic leather, and fabric, and in all kinds of designs in the market.

Bifold Wallet

The bifold wallet is considered by many to be the classic wallet design.

As you can guess from the name, this type of wallet is one that folds in two leaving you with a space on each side for cards and change.

With a bifold wallet, you will have plenty of space for everything you need to carry with you, from credit cards to cash, and change too. Though there’s plenty of design options with the bifold wallet, with some accommodating for more cards while others have a zippered pouch designed to hold loose change. Typically though each bifold wallet will have a long opening up the top which is intended for holding bills.

The main benefit of the bifold wallet is that it offers the classic combination of substance and style. Not only will you have room for cash, cards, and coins, but you’ll also have a stylish accessory that you can match with your outfit.

A crisp leather bifold wallet is hard to resist, especially if it’s embroidered with a designer logo or has that satisfying coarse real leather texture.

Leather is the most common material used for this type of wallet, but you can buy affordable faux leather options too and synthetic designs if appearances aren’t everything for you.

Slim Wallet

In an increasingly minimalist world, less is most certainly more.

As a result, something like a slim wallet could be just what you need to prove that you’re moving with the times.

A slim wallet isn’t just a fashion or lifestyle statement, though, it’s also incredibly convenient.

Gone are the days when all men had a bulky bifold wallet bulging out of their pocket. Now, you can walk around comfortably without giving away any indications that you even have a wallet in your pocket.

The slim wallet can come in a couple of designs, either as a bifold option or a card holder.

They are intended for those who carry no more than eight cards at any time (which should apply to most men) and just need a small handful of cash.

In reality, the slim wallet isn’t radically different from most bifold wallets, the main difference of course being that of width. Slim wallets are so very thin, which makes them exceptionally easy to store away in your pocket without creating an unsightly bulge or digging into your side.

Trifold Wallet 

The trifold wallet raises the stakes from the classic bifold wallet design, incorporating an extra compartment for those who need it.

While this does mean that they can be fairly chunky wallets (especially when compared to slim wallets) they do have their advantages. The main reason you’d want to invest in a trifold wallet is for extra storage – storage that you can’t get with your standard bifold or slim wallet.

So that means if you love to hoard receipts and carry large wads of cash around you can rejoice, as there’s a wallet out there for you.

Not everyone buys into minimalist fashion, and that’s perfectly fine – each to their own. With a trifold wallet, you can carry everything you need and more in your pocket.

Money Clip Wallet 

The money clip wallet is an interesting option if you just want to carry cash around with you, and don’t care about cards and coins.

It’s the simplest way to carry money around with you, so if you tend to walk around with an abundance of paper bills, it’s your best bet.

This type of wallet doesn’t have to be rudimentary though. While many of them are very basic and affordable, you can also get stylish options which have features such as RFID-blocking and card storage – just in case you need it.

RFID Wallet 

RFID is short for radio-frequency identification, and if you don’t know what it is, now’s a good time to find out.

With RFID, thieves can access digital information and steal your identity. It’s not common, but it happens. As a result, many wallet manufacturers take steps to prevent this from happening, namely by installing RFID-blocking technology in their wallets.

An RFID-blocking wallet is one which will protect your card information from this type of theft, even while you’re out and about.

So when you’re next shopping for a wallet, be sure to keep an eye out for ‘RFID-blocking’ because it could be an extra feature that makes the investment worthwhile.

RFID-blocking as a feature isn’t reserved for certain types of wallets, so you can have the technology with whatever type of wallet you prefer. Of course, this is a feature that doesn’t apply to those who only carry coins and cash around.

Taxi Wallet 

The taxi wallet is a type of wallet that’s been around for more than 30 years now, and it’s a compact one-stop shop for all of your cards, cash, and coins.

It’s a travel-friendly wallet that has two currency pockets, a secure interior pocket for ID, and a gusseted snap pouch designed to carry your change. There’s also an outside pocket which can be used for cards like train passes and hotel keys.

Travel Wallet

The travel wallet is a wallet that has been designed specifically for travel.

In it, you will usually be able to carry all the documentation you need for flights and accommodation, as well as cards and currency.

This type of wallet is much larger than your average wallet, and unlike most other wallets isn’t designed to be stored in your pocket. But while it isn’t as convenient as most other wallets, the travel wallet allows you to bring travel essentials such as a passport and other key documents in one place.

This can be incredibly helpful for getting through the airport with minimal fuss as it can save you from rummaging through your suitcase to find loose papers.

Belt Wallet

Belt wallet is a general term for any wallet which fits around the waist.

There are several types of belt wallet you might come across. There are belts which contain zippers on them, that serve the basic functionality of holding a few coins or bills. Then there are compartments that can be attached to your belt that serve as easy-to-access wallets, and finally there are sleek wallet-sized containers that attach to the waist or belt.

Of course, the number one reason to invest in a belt wallet is convenience. Mostly, though, they are intended for travel. What makes them so convenient is the fact that you have quick access to your money without reaching into your pocket and fumbling to get your wallet open. This is ideal for when you’re dragging suitcases or heavy bags around and don’t want the extra hassle of having to get your wallet out of your pocket.

Pocket Wallet 

A pocket wallet is a type of wallet that’s designed to slot into your front pocket.

This is a wallet that has just one compartment, and it’s designed to be easy and convenient to use. All you have to do is reach into your pocket and slip out the wallet, where you’ll have access to some cash and cards in an instant.

This is, like the slim wallet, a movement towards a more minimalist lifestyle and it mitigates the issue of bulging pockets.

Case Wallet

A case wallet is a wallet that is designed to work with your smart phone for the ultimate convenience.

You’ve probably seen it before – it’s the wallet which is disguised as a bulky phone case.

Usually, this type of wallet will only have space for a few cards, but it’s an incredibly handy option if you’re against the idea of having both a phone and wallet in your pockets.

With this wallet you can consolidate all of your personal belongings into one convenient place, making your life easy.

Shoe Wallet

A shoe wallet is just what it sounds like: a wallet that fits to your shoe.

What an innovative idea!

While you might have trouble wrapping your head around the fact that you’re carrying your money around on the top of your shoe at first, it makes a lot of sense for some men.

If you’re a frequent runner or you hit up the gym several times a week, you’ll know that between changing clothes and having nowhere to put your bag, knowing where to store your wallet securely can be a nightmare.

If you don’t have access to a locker or a safe space to put your bag, then it’s definitely worth considering investing in a shoe wallet.

It will definitely take some getting used to in the beginning, but after a while we’re sure you’d learn to love it, since it will make your life easier in the long run (pun intended!).

This type of wallet is usually quite affordable, too, so you won’t need to worry about breaking the bank.

The main thing to bear in mind with this type of wallet though is that you’ll have to be mindful that it’s on your foot at all times, especially if you plan on running through puddles or muddy terrain.

Cardholder

Cardholders are slightly larger wallets that, as their name indicates, are specially designed to place multiple cards and documents. 

They are long and have a design similar to women’s wallets, so bills can be stored without folding. 

They have various pockets and compartments. 

They are widely used by secretaries and businessmen who carry all their belongings in a briefcase.

Chain Model

Men’s chain wallets are also called biker models. 

They are anchored with a long chain that can be attached to the pants or belt loop and protrudes out of the pocket. 

They are safe, sturdy, and stylish. They usually have relief designs with different figures.

Sporty Model

Sporty wallets are those which can be worn fixed with a strap on the arm or ankle. 

These are typically small men’s zippered wallets that are made from breathable fabrics and lightweight materials that are easily washable. 

They are ideal for taking with you in those moments when you exercise or jog outdoors. 

In the market, you can find Nike men’s wallets or Adidas men’s wallets with sporty models of very good quality.

Why Buy a Men’s Wallet?

Men’s wallet is the ideal accessory to keep money and cards organized. 

In addition, they are the perfect size to carry in your pants or jacket pocket comfortably and discreetly. By having a wallet for men, you can ensure that you will not lose your money or your identification documents.

In today’s market, you can find branded men’s wallets that, in addition to being elegant, maintain a very good value for money. 

There are different sizes, different materials, and designs for all possible tastes. 

You can also find wallets for young men with very striking colors and prints, such as some models of men’s wallets from the Quiksilver or Vans brand, for example.

How to Choose a Men’s Wallet?

If you want to buy a men’s wallet, you should know that you will find many options. Choosing the right one for you may take some time. 

However, if you know in advance what to look for, it will be much easier to choose a model. Next, we will tell you which are those characteristics that you should pay more attention to.

Material

One of the most important characteristics that you should consider when buying a wallet is the material with which it is made. Wallets are usually made of leather or fur, synthetic materials like polyester, or simply made of fabric and some plastic components.

Leather wallets for men are more resistant and durable, have an elegant and casual design, and a quality superior to wallets made of polyester. 

On the other hand, youth men’s wallets are usually cloth wallets with velcro closures and colorful, flexible designs. We recommend that you opt for quality when you invest in a wallet, even if it means shelling out more. 

Wallets made from synthetic materials are certainly practical, but they’re never going to look the part the way a leather one does.

Pockets

Another factor worth looking at when deciding on one wallet model or another is the number of pockets and compartments it has. 

A good wallet should have at least two pockets so that you can place essential cards or documents such as your ID or driver’s license. Ideally, there should be a removable window you can flash your ID when necessary.

Modern men’s wallets can be equipped with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) blocking system. It is a technology that prevents electromagnetic waves of any kind from causing interference with the chip of your credit or debit cards and from altering their circuits and damaging them.

RFID locks are basically screens are superimposed on the cards while they are inside the wallet. This system prevents any modern thief from using electronic devices that can steal your information remotely and carry out transactions that do not require the use of your PIN code. 

RFID-blocking wallets tend to be more expensive, so this technology can sometimes be dispensed with. However, we recommend purchasing them for greater security, if you can afford them.

Size

It is a characteristic that you should pay close attention to if you want to choose a wallet with the ideal proportions so that it is comfortable for you according to the occasion and use you are going to give it.

In the market, you can get wallets of different sizes and formats, from large men’s wallets or handbags in which the dollar bills fit without having to be folded, to wallets of a standard size with multiple compartments for cards, coins, bills, and even photos.

There are very discreet and small models that take up little space and are perfect to carry in the inside pocket of the jacket. An example could be a leather Pepe Jeans men’s wallet with dimensions of 11 cm x 8.5 cm x 1 cm, which has enough compartments for cards and identity documents.

Design

Men’s wallets can be found with a wide variety of designs and different styles. There are models of very elegant wallets made with leather such as the Gucci men’s wallets or the Montblanc men’s wallets.

There are also models with a classic style that fold into two or even three sections as well as casual models and wallets with different types of prints and reliefs that attract attention at first glance. 

Men’s wallets can also have multiple compartments for different uses, whether it is to place cards, bills, keep keys, store coins, or even compartments to place identification cards and photos.

The choice between one or the other will largely depend on your particular tastes, specific needs, and the occasions you will use your wallet. 

The important thing is that you opt for a model with a suitable size, in a color that you like, and that is made with high-quality materials.

Our Picks for Best Wallets

Want our top picks for some of the best types of wallets? Check out these articles:

• Best Metal Wallets
• Best Luxury Wallets
  Best Minimalist Wallets

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Wallets

How much is a men’s wallet worth?

The cost of a men’s wallet can vary according to its materials, size, brand, and type. The cheapest men’s wallets are the youthful fabric models that can be obtained starting from 10 bucks. 

On the other hand, an original men’s wallet with several compartments and leather materials can have cost between 30 and 60 dollars.

The most recognized men’s wallet brands such as Hugo Boss men’s leather wallets with very elegant and at the same time simple designs can have costs that exceed 90 bucks for their quality and prestige. 

You can also find Guess brand men’s wallets or Calvin Klein men’s wallets at costs of approximately 50 bucks.

If you want to know where to buy men’s wallets at a good price, you can search Amazon. There you will find wallets of all brands and models in a price range that is convenient for you.

Where to buy a men’s wallet?

This type of men’s accessory can be found in some stores or department stores. On the other hand, as a very good alternative that we recommend, there are online stores, such as Amazon. Here you will find many models to choose from and affordable prices.

How to use a men’s wallet?

Using a men’s wallet is not a very complex task. Just look at each of its compartments to identify the place where the bills, identification documents, and cards will be placed. There are models in which you can even put coins or store keys.

In general, wallets can be closed with a click clasp and in some cases with clasps. Youth models usually have velcro closures to keep the wallet tightly closed. 

Most wallets are perfectly sized to fit in the back pockets of the pants or even the inside pockets of the jacket to carry them with you at all times.

How to clean a men’s wallet?

To properly clean a men’s wallet you should pay attention to the material with which it is made to avoid using products that may deteriorate its surface.

If you have a faux leather wallet, you can use warm water, a cloth, and a mild detergent. Just rub all the surfaces of the bag with the cloth to remove dirt, add a little water to remove the detergent, and dry well with a dry cloth.

Leather wallets need to be cleaned more carefully. There are some ideal products to clean and lubricate the different types of leather, which are placed on the surface of the wallet and left to act for a few seconds. 

You can also use soft brushes or brushes to remove dust and dirt from your wallet. 

The important thing is that before using any cleaning product or method you make sure to use it in a convenient way so as not to damage the material in your wallet.

A Final Word From The Trending Man 

It may seem insignificant, but knowing the importance of carrying a wallet according to your style can set a precedent in your knowledge about fashion. 

Now you know all the important tips when choosing between the best types of wallets.

Be clear about what you need and what you like, and you will surely make the right decision. Choose from the best men’s wallets the one that best describes your way of being. 

You will feel more secure and definitely much more confident in certain situations!