The most essential element of an everyday carry is a wallet. You’ll need an ID, some cash, and your essential cards, but you don’t want to carry a lot of bulk. This review will cover the best slim wallets available and help you figure out the type, style, and configuration you’re looking for.
The Best Slim Wallets
Need recommendations for a good slim wallet? Any of these high quality wallets would make an excellent choice for EDC enthusiasts and anyone who prefers to keep their accessories minimal.Â
1. Ridge Wallet
The Ridge Wallet is the hard shell slim wallet for those with discerning taste. It’s a light, elegant, and gorgeously designed wallet that embodies the traits we love most about minimalist design. Even better, it holds a shocking amount of credit cards and debit cards and cash for its size and style.
It’s incredibly simple in design, literally just two plates held together with an elastic band, yet it’s one of the most fundamentally functional wallets we’ve ever reviewed. You can quickly and easily access your cards by fanning open the plates, and store a reasonable amount of cash using the optional money clip or cash strap.
The Ridge is available in your choice of several high-end materials such as titanium, carbon fiber, or aircraft-grade aluminum, plus numerous colors and patterns.
For more information, check out our Ridge wallet review.
- Dimensions: 3.39 in / 86 mm H X 2.13 in / 54 mm W
- Weight: Aluminum 2 oz. / 56.7 g, Carbon Fiber1.6 oz. / 45.6 g, Titanium 2.5 oz. / 70.9 g
- Card Capacity: Up to 12
The slim Ridge wallet holds 1-12 credit cards without stretching out. Ideal for business cards, credit and debit cards, bills, etc. Outside notch allows you to push out the cards easily. Cash strap allows you to secure several bills to the outside of your wallet. Made with RFID-blocking materials. Durable materials that’ll last a lifetime.
2. Airo Collective Stealth Razor Wallet
We’ll level with you: We liked this slim wallet a lot more than we expected to going in. At first glance, the Razor would appear to be just another slim bifold, but once you pick it up, fill it, and carry it around, you start to see how downright awesome it is.
We wouldn’t have believed we were holding it if we couldn’t see it in our hands. It weighs practically nothing at just 0.14 oz. and is so slender you’d be forgiven for thinking you were holding just a card. It’s probably the thinnest wallet we’ve ever seen, which is why we had to include it on our list of the best slim wallets.
Airo Collective made it right here in the U.S.A. out of space-age UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene), a high-tech polymer that we found virtually indestructible yet soft and pliant enough to fit comfortably in our front pockets. The internal organization is minimal yet functional, with space for up to eight cards plus some cash without significantly changing the wallet’s shape.
If you’re looking for the lightest, slimmest, and most low-profile wallet out there, the Airo Collective Stealth Wallet Razor is the way.
- Dimensions: 3.8 in / 96.5 mm H x 3 in / 76.2 mm W
- Weight: 0.14 oz. / 3.97 g
- Card Capacity: Up to 8
The Stealth Razor wallet is about a third of an inch thick when full. It's a slim wallet that actually stays thin, even when completely full and used over time. Each wallet holds 8 cards and 4 bills (safely secured with a ballistic bungee loop), so you can easily slip in your cash and cards and maintain and ultra-thin wallet.
3. Fantom Wallet
The Fantom Wallet is the hard body slim wallet for the EDC enthusiast who wants all the bells and whistles. It’s an overengineered and lovingly constructed wallet that’s as rugged and functional as it is beautiful.
Where something like the Ridge Wallet relies on simplicity of form and function, Fantom went with a more feature-forward approach. Instead of card pockets, you access stored cards using a lever on one side that instantly fans them out from the main compartment. If that sounds like a lot of engineering for your wallet, don’t worry: It still keeps your cards safe.
The Fantom’s integrated money clip is a great alternative to traditional pocket for cash or exterior pockets. It also holds additional cards if you need the extra storage capacity.
That’s just the base model. You can choose from multiple modular configurations of the Fantom that give you the ability to hold coins, keys, IDs, cash, and even a slot for an Apple AirTag.
Even better, the Fantom is built to last. The main body is made from ceramic-coated aluminum with tons of interchangeable side panel materials, color options, and types available.
For more information, check out our Fantom wallet review.
- Dimensions: 4.6 in / 116.8 mm H x 2.8 in / 71.1 mm W
- Weight: 2.75 oz. / (77.9 g)
- Card Capacity: 4 to 13 depending on model
The Fantom Wallet is only 0.54 inch thick - just 0.1 inch thicker than the cards it's holding. Carry cards, cash, and coins. The ergonomic thumb lever is designed for one-handed operation. One flick of your thumb and your cards are fanned, ready for you to select the card of your choice. With the integrated quick card slot, you can withdraw your top card with one swift motion. Three different sizes. RFID blocking tech included.
4. Harber London Super Slim Card Holder
For those looking to minimize the profile of their wallet without giving up that classic natural grain leather vibe, the Harber London Super Slip Card Holder is a slim premium leather wallet that’s a great option for EDC enthusiasts. It’s about the size of a luggage tag yet packs in up to six cards in an easy to access and classically stylish format using a simple slip pocket / cash slot.
Up to five cards slot into the main compartment and can be accessed using a stylish pull tab. The Harber also offers a quick access single card slot for your ID or most in-demand credit card. It doesn’t offer dedicated cash storage, but we found it possible to slip a few folded bills into the quick access card slot.
The commitment to classic style rules helps set the Harber apart from many other minimalist slim wallets. There’s nothing flashy, high-tech, or particularly EDC-focused about it, but that’s also its biggest draw.
- Dimensions: 4 in / 102 mm H x 2.9 in / 76 mm W
- Weight: .49 oz. / 13.89 g
- Card Capacity: Up to 6
Super Slim design. Keeps bulk to a minimum. Quickdraw card back pocket. Convenient Pull tab for easy card access. Handmade by expert craftsmen in Spain. Made with Signature Premium Full Grain Leather. Fits 6+ cards. RFID protection. Designed to be simple, functional, secure and to eliminate bulky pockets.
5. Kisetsu Natsu Wallet
Kisetsu is a Singaporean maker of fine leather goods focusing on producing gorgeously styled wallets with insane attention to detail. The Kisetsu Natsu is their slimmest creation, a sleek design that’s barely more than credit card sized wallet that fits easily in any pocket and offers timeless elegance.
It’s made from a precisely cut and stitched piece of natural grain genuine leather that develops a gorgeous patina through its lifespan. The three compartments allow you to carry four to six cards plus a bit of folded cash and even a key or a few coins.
The Natsu was inspired by classic Japanese design concepts and is one of our top picks for slim leather wallets. If you love the feel of quality leather but want to minimize bulk, the Kisetsu Natsu comes highly recommended.
- Dimensions: 3.7 in / 94 mm H x 2.52 in / 64 mm
- Weight:
- Card Capacity: Up to 6
Made with full grain leather, the Natsu Wallet is the first ever minimalist cardholder wallet at its size to hold not only cards and bills, but coins and keys. Lined with RFID blocking fabric, this wallet helps to keep your personal information safe. Compact, discreet, safe and sleek. Natsu is for the absolute minimalist.
6. Nomatic Wallet
Nomatic is better known for its top-quality travel bags and packs (check out our Nomatic backpack review) than its accessories, but when we saw that they had a wallet, we had to try it out. At first glance, the Nomatic Wallet is a circular bit of colorful webbing with an attached pull tab. Once we watched a how to video and loaded it up, we were seriously impressed with how practical and downright effective it truly is.
It has one compartment subdivided into two ends, with one set of up to seven cards slipped from the top and one set of seven slipped in from the bottom. To access your cards, you pull the tab, and half the cards are pulled clear while also making the other half more accessible.
It’s a simple concept, but Nomatic seems to be the only one who tried it and pulled it off this well. We found it exceptionally easy to access individual cards once stowed, particularly given how many it could hold.
It’s also backed up by Nomatic’s rock-solid lifetime warranty, so you won’t need to worry about the flexible strapping going bad on you. For those looking for something a little bit different in their next wallet and who want to keep it as light as possible, the Nomatic Wallet is a great way to go.
- Dimensions: 3.4 in / 86.4 mm H x 2.2 in / 55.9 mm W
- Weight: .64 oz. / 18.14 g
- Card Capacity: Up to 14
The NOMATIC wallet is an ultra thin, modern wallet that can hold 4-15 cards. Quick access to four cards. The minimalistic design will make you stand out from the crowd. If the wallet ever begins to fail, Nomatic will repair it or send a new one at no cost. Built to last a lifetime.
7. Bellroy Card Holder Wallet
Bellroy has made it their mission to offer exceptionally functional minimalist accessories without sacrificing a shred of panache. The Bellroy Card Holder is an ultra-slim and lightweight bifold wallet with a compact design that holds up to eight cards with style.
The Card Holder was inspired by the Japanese Meishi ritual of exchanging business cards, but don’t let that stop you from using it as your EDC wallet. Its dual pockets can hold up to four debit cards or credit cards or folded bills without adding bulk to your pocket.
It’s made using high-end and environmentally certified leather and includes a magnetic closure to keep everything in place. It opens up quickly when you need to access your cards and snaps closed with a satisfying sensation of solidity.
You can pick up the Bellroy Card Holder in one of several classically stylish colors.
- Dimensions: 4.13 in / 105 mm H x 2.87 in / 73 mm W
- Weight: 1 oz. / 31 g
- Card Capacity: 6-8 cards
The Card Sleeve is the slimmest style in the Bellroy arsenal. It can be used as a business card holder o a full-time wallet. Pull tab for easy storage of cards and money. Outside pockets can be used for quick-access items. Holds 2 - 8 cards and folded bills. Backed by our 3-year warranty.
8. Slimfold Micro Softshell Wallet
The Slimfold Micro Softshell Wallet is an ultralight minimalist wallet designed for maximum function with minimal bulk, so we had to include it on our list of the best slim wallets. It’s made from a technical fabric similar to Gore-Tex that’s super durable, waterproof, and yet that lays flat and feels comfortable against your skin.
It’s a traditional bifold design with a full-size cash compartment yet still offers enough storage capacity for up to 10 cards. Two card slots can hold up to five each, though we found the sweet spot closer to three. It can definitely hold more, but it was noticeably thicker.
What’s cool about the Slimfold is its durability and design aesthetics. It’s one of the slimmest wallets we’ve ever seen. Every layer of material is so skinny and yet practically indestructible. We splashed water on it, raked our keys across it, stomped on it, and even backed a card over it and saw no apparent damage, tearing, or even marking that wouldn’t wash right off.
- Dimensions: 4.05 in / 103 mm H x 2.88 in / 73 mm W
- Weight: 0.5 oz. / 14.17 g
- Card Capacity: Up to 10 ( though 6-8 is the sweet spot)
Fits 8 cards. 2-3 times thinner than most leather wallets. Bonded aluminum super-thin RFID blocking layer, but doesn't add thickness. 5-year warranty. Stain and abrasion resistant. Waterproof softshell material protects cards. Made from eco-friendly materials.
9. Trayvax Armored Summit Wallet
One of the EDC-est of EDC wallets out there, the Trayvax Armored Summit Wallet is a tactically inclined hard shell pocket wallet built to be practically indestructible. It combines a durable steel plate with MIL-SPEC nylon webbing in a ruggedly handsome package.
Everything about the Armored Summit looks tough, from the textured surfaces to the over-the-top webbing. Unlike most other best slim wallets on this list, it also packs in some useful extra features other than just being a wallet. It includes an integrated bottle opener and has an attachment point for things like keys, flashlights, and other useful kit.
If you’re looking to complete your tactical EDC without adding bulk, the Trayvax Armored Summit is the wallet for you.
- Dimensions: 3.8 in / 96.52 mm H x 2.35 / 59.56 mm W
- Weight: 2.56 oz. / 72.57 g
- Card Capacity: Up to 7
This slim wallet combines the Summit minimalist wallet with the RFID-protecting power of the Armor Plate. Heat-resistant steel plate. Fits up to 8 cards. Includes cash clip, 3d stamped frame, ID display, attachment point, and bottle opener.
10. Filson Smokejumper Wallet
Designed at the request of elite wildland firefighters, the Filson Smokejumper is one of the most heavy-duty cloth slim wallets you’ll find. It’s made from Filson’s iconic 14 oz. oil finish tin cloth, a tear-, puncture-, and water-resistant cloth perfect for those heading into the deep outdoors.
The Smokejumper isn’t exactly what we’d call stylish, looking a lot like that first velcro wallet you got as a kid, but it’s got character aplenty. It’s tough, highly functional, and takes a workmanlike style approach that focuses on function over form, great for carrying on a daily basis when you don’t care about aethetics.
The Filson Smokejumper isn’t the wallet for everybody, but it’s a great way to carry around a few cards and bills while working hard or exploring some really wild places.
- Dimensions: 5 in / 127 mm H x 3.88 in / W
- Weight: 3 oz. / 85 g
- Card Capacity: Up to 8
Keep your finances on lock with the Smokejumper Wallet. Four credit card slots with large bill flap. Fold-over flap self-closes into exterior pocket. 100% cotton. Simple wallet stands up to wear. Nylon binding for enhanced durability. Fold-over flat closure is easy to use.
11. Herschel Charlie Card Case Wallet
The Herschel Charlie Card Case is a classic little compact wallet that holds a couple of cards, a few bills, and a ticket to roam. It’s available in a huge variety of color options and patterns that will hit just about anyone’s taste.
It lays flat and has two quick access exterior card slots on the front and back, plus a larger storage sleeve on top. Four cards are about the most we tend to use in a day, making the Charlie wallet’s quick access slots just right. One thing to keep in mind is that there’s a noticeable break-in period. We found it tough to get our cards out of a new one, but they got a lot looser after working them in and out more times than we care to remember while listening to a podcast.
Overall, the Charlie wallet is an affordable option for a slim wallet with a lot of snazzy style options and a ton of value for what you pay.
- Dimensions: 3 in / 76.2 mm H x 4 in / 101.6 mm W
- Weight: 1 oz. / 28.35 g
- Card Capacity: Four (though you could put more in the cash pocket if you want)
The Charlie wallet is a compact card holder made for daily journeys. Multiple card slots and top-access storage sleeve. Signature striped fabric liner.
What to Consider When Buying a Slim Wallet
Here are a few factors to consider when looking for the perfect slim wallet:
Compact size / minimalist size
Obviously your slim wallet should be thin, light, and stripped down to its essential components. Disregard wallets with unnecessary design elements or embellishments. Remember: The whole point is to reduce bulk.
Reasonable price
While it’s possible to spend hundreds of dollars on a wallet, you can definitely find something more affordable. If price is a concern for you, you’ll have no problem finding a slim design that without a hefty price tag.
Storage capacity
Great slim wallets have just enough storage capacity of everyday life, but not so much that you get bogged down by all the weight. The purpose of a wallet isn’t to include everything that’s important to you, just a bit of cash, a few cards, and the things you need everyday. Maximizing storage is NOT the goal.
Variety of styles
Choose a brand of slim wallet that offers a variety of styles, color options, and materials. There are plenty of minimal wallets out there with different options. If you want something traditional, go with real leather or a canvas material in a bifold style. Otherwise you can try something unique like aluminum, carbon fiber, and more.
Additional features
Depending on your needs, you may opt for a skinny wallet with additional features, like elastic materials, a detachable money clip, a coin pouch, a snap enclosure, or even a built-in bottle opener. The lightest wallets won’t have these features, but they’re possible if you’re willing to sacrifice a bit of minimalism.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Slim Wallets
Want to know more about owning a minimalist wallet? These common questions may help before buying a slimmer wallet.
Who should buy one of the best slim wallets in our list?
If you carry a wallet every day, we strongly recommend a slim wallet (either a card holder or a bifold wallet) instead a traditional thick one. Simply put, slim wallets are more comfortable. A thick wallet can put your hips out of alignment when you’re sitting and compress your joints, muscles, and spine. This can cause a genuine health concern.
Furthermore, slim wallets are aesthetically pleasing. They prevent lumps and bumps in your silhouette, whether it’s in your front or back pocket. The major downside here is that slim wallets typically don’t have space for a lot of cash or coins. You’ll need to store them somewhere else.
What about RFID protection?
RFID-blocking technology is important these days. Malicious people will use card readers to capture the information from the magnetic strips on the cards in your wallets and commit identity theft. A slim wallet with RFID protection will nullify this effect so your card info is always safe. Many of the best slim minimalist wallets on this list include RFID-blocking tech.
Why are the best slim wallets better?
Slim wallets are lightweight, thin, and easy to carry to stash and remove from your pocket. They’re comfortable on your person all day long and they don’t cause pain when sitting. Many people like the style and aesthetic of a slim wallet, as well, though you’ll have to make that decision for yourself.
What is the smallest wallet?
The smallest bifold wallet is the SlimFold MICRO Minimalist Wallet. It’s hard to believe, but this wallet is only 0.2 inches thick. It fits eight cards, but it’s still 2-3 times thinner than a traditional wallet or a leather wallet. It’s just a bit wider than a credit card and taller than a US bill.
How thick should a wallet be?
The thickest wallet we recommend is 0.71 inches. Any thicker and you’ll cause yourself discomfort and possibly pain. All you need is a basic slim wallet with storage capacity for four or five cards. Whatever you decide, choose a comfortable wallet that feels secure in your pocket.
What pocket should hold your wallet?
Ideally, you should always hold your wallet in your front pocket. Storing it in your back pocket will cause pressure and possibly pain when you sit down. Carrying your wallet in your front pocket will also make it harder for pick-pockets to steal.
Are expensive wallets worth it?
Naturally, it comes down to a matter of taste, but expensive wallets often offer features you just can’t find in traditional wallets. For instance, some of the pricier wallets include card fanning tech to access your debit cards and credit cards, RFID-blocking technology, sturdy materials, and an array of colors.
