How Much Should I Spend on a Wallet?

If you want a cheap canvas wallet, you can get away with spending less than $40.

But if you want a high quality leather wallet that's going to last, you should invest $150 - $250 in it.

Make sure the leather grade is full-grain, and that it's vegetable-tanned - both of these will ensure it's durable and develops a beautiful patina with age (note: this is what all Von Baer wallets are made from - shop them here).

We go into further details below:

How To Determine What's Important For Your Wallet

Key factors you need to think about when buying a wallet include material, craftsmanship, brand reputation, and quality.

We also have an article on whether luxury wallets are worth it here, and how to choose a quality wallet here.

Quality and material

The durability of a wallet depends on the materials used to make it as well as its craftsmanship.

Real leather ages beautifully and is highly regarded for its longevity. Resilient full-grain gives you excellent resilience as well as a patina that will look even netter with time. It should also be vegetable-tanned, as this will age better and is better for the environment.

Although synthetic materials are cheaper, they aren’t as resilient, which means you may need to replace them more often.

Brand and craftsmanship

The most renowned brands can charge more for their wallets.

This isn’t just because of the prestige of their names but also because they can offer a high standard of design and craftsmanship.

When you buy from a reputable brand, you can expect your wallet to maintain its style and value for years to come.

However, if you find an independent, lesser-known brand that still offers the same high-quality materials, it can be a great way to get designer quality for less money (this was the founding principle of Von Baer).

Functionality meets style

Your wallet is an accessory that will be seen and used on a daily basis.

It needs to align with your day-to-day needs.

Make sure the design you opt for reflects your visual and practical preferences strongly.

The emotional side of buying a wallet

Although wallets serve big practical purposes, they can also be viewed as symbols of your personal achievements and milestones.

Owning a high-quality wallet that reminds you of your personal accomplishments can be highly fulfilling.

Cost and value

• Under $50: You may be able to source a good quality wallet made from mainly synthetic or lower-grade leather in this price range. These wallets are better suited to people prioritizing functionality over brand and material quality.
• $50 to $150: In this price range, you’ll find some well-made leather wallets from leading brands that can give you a good blend of quality, design, and value. However they tend not to use the highest grade of leather.
• Above $150: Spend $150 or more and you'll get the highest quality full-grain leather available, as well as reputable brands and better craftsmanship. This is what all Von Baer wallets are made from (link).

How much you invest in a wallet should be proportional to how important the item is to you.

Your wallet should reflect your personal style, how much value you place on quality, and the statement you want to make.

We define what a wallet is here, as well as the history behind them. Also see our article on wallet types - link.