Should Men Still Carry Wallets?

Quick answer: Yes, even in this age when cash is losing its popularity and cards and wallet apps are taking over, a good wallet is a must for the sophisticated – and practical – man’s accessories list.

It carries your ID, cash, and any other important cards you might need.

It’s a good idea to get one that gives you RFID protection as well.

Read the finer details below:

Choosing The Right Type of Wallet is Everything

In the old days, a bulky bifold or trifold was the only way to go, but today you can get a sleek, minimalist design that is comfortable, looks great, and carries only what you need it to carry.

Size and Portability

Avoid bulk and weight with a thin, minimalist wallet that holds only what you need it to hold. A card holder like the one below is a great example (link):

Or, if you need to carry a lot of cards and cash, then choose a trifold wallet with a coin purse included (or even a travel wallet to carry your passport too).

Here's a good example of a large wallet (link):

Material and Durability

A classic real leather look complements your style, and lasts for many years.

We recommend full-grain leather, as it's the most durable and stylish (all Von Baer wallets are made from full-grain leather).

We have more details on why we love full-grain leather for wallets here.

Accessibility and Efficiency

Whatever style you choose, ensure that you have quick access to the things you need, and that everything is secure when you don’t need them.

This could include money clips for quick access to cash, or a passport holder if you're a frequent flyer.

Here's a great example of a money clip wallet (link):

Security Features

RFID blocking technology will protect you from cyber-thieves, and a low profile wallet will protect you from traditional pickpockets.

All Von Baer wallets come with RFID blocking features (shop them here).

Pros and Cons of a Wallet

Digital Shift vs. Traditional Elegance

The need for a traditional, larger-sized wallet is diminishing as we rely more on digital means of paying for things.

Smartphones and watches can do a lot of what wallets used to do, keeping ID, payment information, loyalty cards, and transit cards safe for use when needed.

However, we do need cash sometimes and physical ID sometimes, and we can always use a touch of style and sophistication, so the traditional wallet still has a place in the successful man’s wardrobe.

Everyday Necessities and Digital Limitations

Consider the possible times when a digital solution won’t work. What if a terminal is down, a battery dies, or a phone is lost or stolen.

The issue doesn’t have to be something under your control; a store may have a technical problem that has nothing to do with you, but if you don’t have a little emergency cash on hand, you might be out of luck.

Likewise, if you need ID to pass into a secure area or prove who you are to authorities – a wallet comes in very handy then.

Durability vs. Cost

A high-quality wallet will cost more than many other options on the market, but this is for good reason. The superior quality not only gives a better user experience, it also lasts a lot longer, which stretches your money out over a longer period of time, giving you more value in the long run.

Not only do they last longer, they look great for the whole time too, whereas lesser wallets will get ratty and worn looking.

We discuss the best materials for a wallet here.

Security Features vs. Risk of Loss

Use RFID blocking technology to protect yourself from data and identity theft. This kind of theft can occur without a thief even touching you, and you might not know about it until well after the fact.

Using digital currency, like a wallet app on your smartphone, can reduce your risk as well.

Emotional Value vs. Practicality

The emotional benefits of a good wallet, however, are also worth considering. Each time you handle it, you’ll get a little boost of luxury and joy in your day.

It might not be as practical in some situations, but then, lots of the best things are not the most practical. That emotional value is worth more than we give it credit for.

Investment Potential vs. Changing Trends

Some high-end wallets become collectible items, actually increasing in value as time goes on, but that’s not guaranteed.

Trends move and change and are not very predictable, so consider first the other benefits of owning a wallet and only then consider potential investment value.

We discuss how much a man should pay for his wallet here.

Unexpected Situations vs. Everyday Convenience

There are times when it is very much to your benefit to pull out a business card and hand it to a potential client or partner.

Digital data may not get lost, but it can also remain hidden and forgotten – a beautiful card, kept pristine in a wallet, provides the presentation and the physical reminder that you may want your potential client to have.

And of course, if there is an interruption in the digital commerce world, a little cash solves the issue.

Should you always carry cash? Read our thoughts.

Summary

The choice to purchase a wallet is a practical one, and an emotional one.

You’ll need to factor in your own values and style, and decide if one is right for you.

At Von Baer, we might be biased, but we love a good leather wallet, and won't be giving them up for e-wallets any time soon.