The traditional bifold wallet has proven to be problematic for many individuals due to its bulkiness, unsightliness, and lack of durability. The constant need to replace a leather wallet that has been damaged by water or the struggle of fitting an overstuffed bifold back in a pocket, has led to the creation of a new solution, the rigid wallet.

A rigid wallet is a hard-sided wallet that is designed to carry only the essential cards and cash, while also being able to withstand drops, moisture, and other impacts. This new type of wallet is a recent development in the world of everyday carry items. To make it easier for individuals to choose the best men's rigid wallet, a buyer's guide has been created to provide features to look for and an explanation of what a rigid wallet is.

What is a Rigid Wallet?

According to the Cambridge dictionary, to earn the adjective rigid, the item must be stiff or fixed, not able to be bent or moved. 

Rigid wallets are a type of wallet that are made from hard, sturdy materials such as aluminum, titanium, steel, copper, brass, or carbon fiber. These materials provide better protection for your cards and cash than traditional wallets made from softer materials like leather. They are designed to be slim and compact, making them easy to carry in your pocket or bag. 

Many rigid wallets also have RFID-blocking technology to protect against identity theft, and are equipped with an interchangeable cash strap or money clip for carrying cash. They may also have a slim design and minimalist approach, allowing for easy access and organization of your cards. Rigid wallets are known for their durability and long-lasting nature, as well as their sleek and modern aesthetic.

What to look for in a Rigid Wallet

No two rigid wallet companies are the same. Just because a company slaps the label on the product doesn’t mean it will compare to another. There are five key factors to consider when looking for a new rigid wallet these include capacity, materials, durability, size/weight, and warranty. In more detail below, we will highlight what each feature means in a rigid wallet.

Capacity 

For a rigid wallet, capacity means: how many cards does it hold? On average rigid wallets hold around 5-10 cards. Cards with raised numbers, like credit cards, can take up more room, while flat cards, like IDs, are the standard measurement. It is important to look at the average number of cards that you carry. Some wallets that have a fixed capacity may not hold fewer cards snug. On the flip side, those same fixed-capacity wallets won't hold more than the allotted number of standard cards.

Materials

When considering a rigid wallet for men, it's important to note that most of them are made from metal. This material is known for its durability and resistance to environmental factors. While there are some wallets made from carbon fiber, they may not offer the same level of protection as metal wallets. Options such as aluminum, titanium, steel, copper, or brass not only provide a high level of impact resistance, but some such as copper also have natural antimicrobial properties.

Durability

To put it plainly, rigid wallets are not the cheaper option for a wallet; because of this, they should last longer than your old bifold. Metal and carbon fiber won't deteriorate as leather would. While the body of the rigid wallets is nearly indestructible, the fittings and clasps of these wallets need to be equally robust. Consider all the attachment points, including screws, elastics, money clips or cash straps, when selecting a rigid wallet.

Size / Weight 

One draw of the rigid wallet is we escape the fat wallet problem. With a reduced capacity, we can't stuff business cards, rewards cards, and receipts into our wallets which keeps our wallets lighter and slimmer. A majority of rigid wallets are designed to be just a tad larger than a credit card which helps with size; there are some designs that feature attachment loops or bottle openers that increase the overall size of the wallet. Wallets made with thicker gauge metal will be slightly heavier and bulkier. We personally like a little heft in our wallets, so they stay firmly planted in the bottom of our pockets.

Warranty

A trustworthy warranty is ideal for a men's wallet or a rigid wallet for anyone looking to put their gear to the test. As mentioned above, there are attachment points that can wear out, certain materials may chip, and in the more technical wallets, screws can work their way loose. With so many variables involved with carrying your ID and forms of payment, it is a comfort to know your investment is backed by a warranty to replace or repair a wallet should it begin to wear.

The Best Rigid Wallet of 2024

When comparing the features of rigid wallets on the market, one wallet stands out as the best wallet of 2024, the Axwell Wallet. So, what makes the Axwell Wallet the best rigid wallet of 2024? Let's highlight some of the reasons.

No Screws Needed

Doubling back to durability in the construction of a rigid wallet, the Axwell has it all. Screws can easily get stripped, loosen over time, or fall out and get lost. If one screw falls out, it loosens the rest of the screws, and eventually, they all fall out, rendering your wallet useless. You won't find a screw on the Axwell Wallet. A total of 24 neodymium magnets hold the outside cover plates to the inside shell plates. The cover plates can be detached in seconds, allowing you to easily change out parts, add new accessories, and clean the inside of your wallet with ease.

Manual Card Access

With manual card access, you'll never need to worry about getting access to your cards. Push button mechanisms like the Ekster Wallet, Secrid Wallet and Groove Wallet can easily break and are unreliable. Unlike the fixed or push button style, manual access allows you to customize the number of cards you want to carry while maintaining a firm grasp on your cards.

Modular Design

The Axwell Wallet offers ultimate customization with its modular design. Choose from a variety of cover plates to match your style, and add on additional features like a cash strap or money clip to suit your carrying needs. And with additional accessories like a coin tray, Chipolo GPS Tracker, and multi-tool card, the possibilities are endless. Keep an eye out for new accessories like the AirTag Money Clip attachment, as we're constantly innovating to bring you the best wallet experience.

Rugged Materials

The Axwell Wallet is designed to withstand the test of time, with its rugged 6061-T6 aluminum body that is both durable and lightweight. Its modular cover plates come in a variety of materials, including aluminum, copper, and carbon fiber, with more options to come. Carbon fiber cover plates offer a stylish and lightweight option, while copper plates provide natural anti-microbial properties, making them perfect for those in the healthcare industry. No matter what your lifestyle or profession, the Axwell Wallet has a cover plate option that will suit your needs.

RFID Protection

Invest in peace of mind with the Axwell wallet, featuring advanced RFID-blocking technology. Protect your sensitive card information from potential skimmers and keep your funds secure at all times. Don't take the risk of going without this essential feature - choose the Axwell wallet for ultimate security and protection.

Lifetime Warranty

Invest in a wallet built to last with the Axwell. Made with durable materials and innovative design, this wallet can withstand everyday wear and tear. But in the unlikely event that something does go wrong, rest easy with our industry-leading lifetime warranty. Learn more about our warranty and see why the Axwell is not only a top-of-the-line wallet, but a long-lasting investment in your everyday carry.

Final Thoughts 

Why settle for a mediocre wallet when you can have the best? The Axwell wallet is the epitome of durability and style, built to last a lifetime with its sturdy construction and industry-leading warranty. Don't waste time and money searching for the perfect wallet - the Axwell wallet has it all.

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