Types of Men’s Wallets: A Comprehensive Guide

Phone, wallet, keys: it’s the trifecta no one can leave the house without. Even in the age of Apple Pay, a physical wallet is crucial to tote your ID and other essentials.

It might even save you from overspending, as 47% of Americans say they automatically spend more money when paying with their phones.

Not only is your wallet of choice an expression of personal style, it also needs to hold everything you carry on a daily basis, and might include additional features as well—like identity theft protection technology. Unsure which to choose from among the different types of mens wallets? Read on for our comprehensive guide to types of men’s wallets and how to determine which is right for you.

Introduction to Men’s Wallets

Wallets have been around since practically the dawn of humanity—since we’ve had currency, we’ve needed to carry it. The earliest known coin purse was found alongside Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,000-year-old mummy accidentally discovered in the Alps. 

By 1690, paper currency hit the U.S. And about 250 years later, the modern American credit card was born in 1949 when a New Yorker forgot to bring cash to dinner. With these advancements came the modern wallet to suit them.

While those original coin purses have evolved to become associated with women’s fashions, the wallet remains a unisex staple, often used to carry everything a man might need when leaving the house. Endless variations exist, from the classic bifold and carry-all trifold to more minimalist clips and cardholders.

Importance of Choosing the Right Wallet

Your wallet is your companion for virtually every adventure, whether that’s a trip to the corner store or halfway across the world. Think of finding the perfect wallet like choosing a life partner: care is essential in finding exactly what you need. 

Your friend’s dream wallet might look different from yours in terms of style, function, or both. Still, there are plenty of fish in the sea, and with the right criteria in mind, you’ll surely find your perfect match.

Bifold Wallets

The bifold is likely the image that pops into your head when you think “wallet.” Folded in half just once, these wallets typically offer space for cards on both sides as well as a cash pocket spanning their entire width.

 

Features and Benefits

This classic choice offers ample space without sacrificing its compact design. It will likely fit in the front pocket of your pants, ideal for avoiding pickpockets. Bifold wallets also give your cash room to spread out without wrinkling, folding it cleanly at the center.

 

Ideal Uses for Bifold Wallets

Bifold wallets are ideal for those who carry cash and a few cards but don’t need every card on hand. They’re a perfect fit for international travel, as you can travel light but still have room for a few extra cards or even another currency.

 

Trifold Wallets

Trifold wallets are the largest classic wallet option. With a design resembling the trifold poster board you likely presented at your childhood science fair, they open out both ways, allowing for maximum space and meticulous organization.

 

Features and Benefits

Trifold wallets are the ultimate choice in terms of space---there’s room for all your cards, gift cards, and forms of ID. But they’re generally the thickest wallet, so it’s better to have large or loose pockets.

 

Ideal Uses for Trifold Wallets

Trifold wallets might be too thick for a pants pocket, but are ideal for throwing in a work bag or taking on a shopping trip. If you want to ensure you have everything on hand, including room for change or receipts, the trifold is for you.

 

Slim Wallets

The slim wallet is just what it sounds like: turn it sideways, and some might hide behind a straw. Particularly thin and compact bifold wallets fall in this category, but it also includes simple cardholders.

 

Features and Benefits

Lightweight and discreet, the slim wallet can fit comfortably in even the tightest of pockets. It often has room for your ID, a few essential cards, and a couple of bills (which might be all you’ll need in the age of Apple Pay).

 

Ideal Uses for Slim Wallets

Slim wallets are ideal on-the-go companions. Take them along on a date, on an outing with friends, or just to the grocery store.

 

Money Clip Wallets

A money clip usually consists of a literal clip, often made of leather or metal and designed to corral cash. Sometimes, their minimalist designs also include a cardholder or an extra storage pocket.

 

Features and Benefits

Money clips are often statement pieces with an intricate design or even an engraved monogram. They’re simple, lightweight, and will fit in any pocket or bag.

 

Ideal Uses for Money Clip Wallets

Perfect for an outing where you know you’ll pay in cash, money clips are a compact option that matches nearly any outfit. A money clip/cardholder combo is the perfect compromise between a slim wallet and a bifold—it lets you carry ample cash neatly without sacrificing sleek design.

 

Groove Life Money Clip Wallets Collection

Every Groove Wallet is also a money clip—each comes with a sleek, detachable metal clip to hold extra cash in addition to the wallet’s six-card capacity. Pop it easily on and off depending on your day’s needs, or leave it in place if you prefer. The design is so sleek you’ll barely notice it.

 

RFID Blocking Wallets

RFID-blocking wallets are outfitted with technology that can help protect your sensitive information from Radio Frequency Identification. Also often made with metal or leather, these high-security wallets are slim and low-profile in design.

 

Features and Benefits

Typically sleek and secure, RFID-blocking wallets are not only a first line of defense against physical pickpocketing, but they also help prevent data and identity theft. They’re ideal for anyone carrying cards containing sensitive information (whether it’s a credit card number or your hotel room number).

 

Importance of RFID Protection

RFID technology is used to store personal information in electronic tags, likely found in nearly every object in your wallet. This might include your passport card, your credit cards, your office badge, or even a hotel room key.

 

Would-be identity thieves might carry the RFID readers used to scan this information, and can obtain it without your knowledge simply by brushing against you in public. RFID-blocking wallets ensure your safety (and your data’s) by disabling these readers.

 

Groove Life RFID Blocking Wallets Collection

Groove Life’s RFID-blocking minimalist wallets come in gun metal, carbon fiber, leather, and more, with a plethora of colors and patterns to choose from. The RFID-blocking Groove Smart Wallet Trace features a detachable money clip, plus Apple Find My technology for an added layer of security. 

 

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Wallet

Deeming a wallet “the one” is a major decision—your wallet likely won’t leave your side for years to come while meeting the responsibility of protecting your funds and identification. As you narrow it down, keep these considerations in mind.

 

Material and Durability

Invest in a wallet that will withstand wear and tear, but also fits with your lifestyle and personal aesthetic.

 

Size and Capacity

Consider what you’ll need to carry on a daily basis. Will a simple cardholder suffice, or do you require a bit more room for cash or gift cards?

 

Additional Functionalities

Key features can often make or break your final decision—whether they provide security via RFID-blocking, the functionality of a zipper pocket, or the versatility of sticking it to your phone case.

 

How to Maintain and Care for Your Wallet

Taking proper care of your wallet is key to its longevity. Be sure to regularly wipe it down with a disinfectant cloth or wipe and remove any stains. For leather wallets, you can make your own leather cleaner and/or conditioner using water, baby soap, and vinegar.

Declutter the contents of your wallet regularly, and avoid stretching by way of overstuffing it. Store it in a safe place and keep it away from stain or liquid hazards when possible (even water might stain leather or harm wallets with RFID-blocking technology).

 

How to Choose the Right Wallet for Your Needs

Ultimately, the wallet you’ll love the most will be one that caters to your particular lifestyle and preferences. Take stock of your daily habits: 

• Do you tend to carry a lot of cash or just a few cards? 

• Do you stash your wallet in your pocket or in a larger bag? 

• How many of your cards contain sensitive information? Do you often carry multiple credit cards, an office badge, or room keys while traveling?

• Do you gravitate towards style, functionality, or a combination of both?

With these criteria in mind, you’ll find a match in no time.

Stash Your Cash With Groove Life

Finding your wallet soulmate requires time and effort, but the happily ever after is well worth the search. If you’re on the hunt for a functional, stylish sidekick (with some bonus features to boot), Groove Life has your back.

Our sleek, compact wallets fit up to six cards plus cash, and include the added security of RFID-blocking technology. Available in metal, leather, and more, Groove Wallets are built to last (and you can’t beat a 94-year warranty). Select styles are even trackable with Apple Find My technology, and we offer personalized engraving with your initials.

Let Groove Life set you up with your perfect match, and you’ll be set for life.

Sources: 

Forbes. Digital Wallet Consumer Preferences: Trends and Statistics 2023. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/digital-wallets-payment-apps/

Penn Museum. Ötzi the Iceman: Examining New Evidence from the Famous Copper Age Mummy. https://www.penn.museum/sites/expedition/otzi-the-iceman/

U.S. Currency Education Program. The History of U.S. Currency. https://www.uscurrency.gov/history

Square. A History of America’s Credit Cards. https://squareup.com/us/en/the-bottom-line/managing-your-finances/a-history-of-americas-credit-cards

HGTV. How to Clean, Condition, and Protect Leather. https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/how-to-clean-and-protect-leather