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The best card holder wallets are basically the flip-flops of the cash-carrying world; they’re as useful as they are minimalist. They’re as pared down as a wallet can get while still being useful, and people love them for it. If you’re tired of lugging around a wallet, or even a slim wallet, a cardholder might be for you.
They also make awesome gifts. If there’s a guy on your gifting list (perhaps a dad who swears by his enormous, cramped wallet?), this can be the perfect buy. The only issue is the sheer number of cardholders on the market.
It can definitely be a hassle wading through the countless options online, and that’s where I come in. The research legwork is already done, so you don’t have to. Chill out, read the guide, then choose the best cardholder wallet for you.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 4 x 3.3 Inches | Colors Available: Black, Brown, Navy | Capacity: 10+ Cards
Luca Faloni’s exceptional Italian leather bifold wonder won the best cardholder wallet for men overall. It’s one of the most wallet-like card holders in this guide, and that’s why it’s so appealing. If you’re not sure if card holders are right for you, or you need a little more room than the other best card holder wallets for men provide, this is a perfect option.
The other big reason to grab this card keeper ASAP is the fact that Luca Faloni is one of the hottest designers around. You will definitely impress other men of culture. If you have any of their amazing selection of leather goods, this is a great addition.
It also comes in three distinct colors, so you can have a smooth look that goes with any outfit on any occasion. I see this card holder wallet as an investment considering the way it will age (patina) and shape to your needs, hard to get more personalized than that.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 3.75 x 3 Inch | Colors Available: Black, Blue | Capacity: 10 Cards
They may not be as big a name as Gucci or Balenciaga, but if you’ve never heard of English designer Oliver Cabell then it’s time to take note. OC has been making some of the best leather cardholder wallets and high-quality Italian leather footwear and accessories since 2018.
They haven’t quite blown up in the states yet, but I’d love to help change that. This card holder from OC is made with the same sweet leather as their shoes and has the Oliver Cabell branding proudly embossed on the front.
It doesn’t hold many cards, but the uber-classy look and feel make up for that. For guys who aren’t lugging around a stack of cards, this might be perfect.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 3.9” x 2.7” Inches | Colors Available: Brown, Dark Brown, Black | Capacity: 4-6 Cards
Slim and practical, I imagine this in the hands of a traveler, but that could just be me. The point is this card holder wallet takes up no space but keeps all the essentials close (let go of the rubber band guys). The best part of this wallet is the discreet bill holder between the two sides – effective is all I can say.
For the man of mystery who wants nothing revealed that he doesn’t want people to know, this wallet will fulfill your needs. As it’s premium Tuscan leather, expect a tight fit for the first few weeks, like a good pair of leather shoes, this will take time to break in to fit you just right.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 2.76 x 3.94 Inches | Colors Available: Black, Navy | Capacity: 6 Cards
Who says small can’t make a big statement? If a regular cardholder isn’t tiny enough for you, you might want to look at Roderer’s Award Mini cardholder. This puppy is about as basic as it gets, but it gets it done with style points to spare. I mean, could that embossed logo look any classier?
If you weren’t aware of Roderer, they make some of the highest quality leather goods in the world.
Not only are you getting a cardholder with this one, but you’re also getting a guaranteed quality accessory. It doesn’t fit a whole lot, but it’s super thin, looks dapper as hell, and has a free tab to easily pop out any cards you need.
Material: Aluminum | Dimensions: 2 oz /86 x 54 x 6 mm| Colors Available: Black, Navy, Burnt Titanium, + | Capacity: 1-12 card
For the adventure man or the man who likes to leave the house and fly free with as little as possible, we have found your ultimate partner. Ultra utilitarian, light, minimalist wallet design – are you still asking for more? Ok, I can give you more.
This design contains military grade materials and a lifetime guarantee, so go ahead and climb that mountain, this wallet won’t be far behind. A partner in crime, I think this wallet is ready to be the thing you grab before you walk out the door. I noticed that the cards can be difficult to remove but I think it’s more of a learning curve (the wallet is worth it) – so be prepared to have a ‘breaking-in period.’
Material: GG Supreme Canvas, Leather | Dimensions: 4 x 2.75 Inches | Colors Available: GG Supreme Canvas | Capacity: 4 Cards
Gucci is one of those names that just oozes luxury. If you’re looking for the best card holder for men that really looks the part, you might want to check this one out.
It’s covered in Gucci’s iconic interlocking G logo in two different flavors: the leather interlocking Gs on the face and the opposing Gs covering the canvas.
It doesn’t hold that many cards, and it isn’t cheap, but names like Gucci never are. If you’re willing to drop those kinds of funds, it will be tough to find a more luxurious card holder. That said, if this isn’t fancy enough to be considered the best card holder for men, just keep scrolling.
Material: Water-resistant LWG gold-rated leather | Colors Available: Black, Blue, Grey, Yellow+ | Capacity: 8 Cards
If the duct tape that’s holding together your current wallet isn’t doing it for you anymore that is a good sign you need to up the versatility of your daily goods. I am really hard on the stuff I carry with me every day – you know wallets, keys, sunglasses, etc. So if I know what’s best for me I need something that is going to hold up.
Luckily I have my eye on this little card holder (emphasis on little). It’s waterproof leather (bonus), with a great texture that would cover up small scuffs (bonus), and a quick pull tab to get your most used cards out quick (guess what? BONUS). Given all that plus the quality standard Bellroy sets – seriously the patina and aging that their wallets stand up to is beyond unique and gorgeous – this is the wallet to get.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 3.75 x 2.75 x 1.5 Inches| Colors Available: Brown | Capacity: 12 Cards
Travelambo has become a crowd favorite thanks to its wallet-friendly prices and excellent build quality. It’s not made with Italian leather or stainless steel, but it will last a long, long time. This card holder is marketed as a front-pocket wallet, but it’s basically just a few slits for cards with a money clip slapped on.
That’s not to say it isn’t awesome. If you’re looking for a minimalist, multi-functional card holder that also looks the part, this is definitely on the list of best card holder wallets. Did I mention it comes in 11 different colors and can survive a house fire? I hope you never get a chance to test that.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 4 x 2.5 Inches | Colors Available: Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire | Capacity: 10 Cards
For some guys, leather just isn’t high-class enough. For these fellows, there is alligator leather. Or at least what looks like croc leather. This US-made case is 100% leather, it’s just embossed cow leather. Embossed or not, it looks badass and doesn’t involve any dead gators (just cows).
This particular card holder is from the Graphic Image Gemstone Collection, so it comes in some sweet colors. My favorite is the ruby, but if red’s not your thing, you might be more into the sapphire or emerald flavors.
Material: Stainless Steel | Dimensions: 3.7″L x 2.3″W x 0.3″H Inches | Colors Available: Black, Grey, Wood, + | Capacity: 10 Cards or up to 20 business cards (thinner)
Never considered a shining silver card holder? Neither had I, but they’re out there if you want one. It’s not going to be as durable as aluminum or heavier metals, but it doesn’t get much more luxurious than something that really shines when you take it out of your pocket. Of course, this isn’t the real deal but it’s shiny and affordable (personally, I’m a big fan).
This particular card holder is better for either fewer cards (think 2-4) or only business cards. Its simple hinge open and brushed silver appearance is set to impress when you’re handing your cards over to potential clients, no messy cards, no messy interactions. Think of this one as the budget investment until you can own the real deal.
Material: Aluminum | Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.9 x 0.5 Inches | Colors Available: Black, Blue, Green, Gray, + | Capacity: 12 Cards
Metal wallets and card holders have made a huge splash in the wallet industry the past few years, and this effort from Ekster proves that point to a T. This wallet is as slim as it gets, coming in at a whopping .2 inches wide (I dare you to find a slimmer waller), but still manages to be heavy duty and reliable (read our review here).
Metal wallets can be a little heavy. That’s why Ekster used aluminum instead of something like titanium. This card holder can hold up to 12 cards; 6 in the main compartment you can fan out with a button touch, and 6 more in the back pocket. If you want a metal wallet, this one will last you a very long time.
Not to mention metal wallets look about as badass as a wallet can get.
Material: Walnut & Beech Wood | Dimensions: 4.2 x 2.68 x 0.4 Inches | Colors Available: Wood | Capacity: 6 Cards
When people think of the best card holder wallets, they don’t usually think of wood. That said, slim wood cash carriers are making a name for themselves as a durable replacement for metal cardholders.
Why not just go metal, you ask? Well, besides leather, what looks classier than wood grain? I’m willing to bet that most people agree. With this wooden cardholder from MaxGear, you’ll be able to hold 6 credit cards or 12-15 business cards. And you’ll look more stylish than 80% of the card carriers out there.
Material: Aluminum, Vegan Leather | Dimensions: 3.7 x 2.4 x 0.4 Inches | Colors Available: Black | Capacity: 6 Cards or 15 Business Cards
For guys who want to look extra classy and important, it might be worth trying a personalized card holder. Yes, this one is marketed as a business card holder, but it can also hold up to 6 credit cards no problem. Plus, it does it in style.
It’s made of vegan leather and stainless steel, but you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference. Your name or initials can be etched proudly on the stainless steel, so everyone who sees you bust out this card holder will know you’re an important fella.
Material: Elastic | Dimensions: 2.25 x 3.5 x 0.25 Inches | Colors Available: Black | Capacity: 1-15 Cards
Elastic card holders aren’t for everyone, but if you’re willing to take a chance, you might find you love them. Sure they won’t survive a bomb blast like metal wallets, but they are a unique way to carry your cards that people will definitely ask about.
This one is absurdly thin (it would have won the “best slim wallet” category if it was a little more versatile). That said, since it’s elastic it can either hold one card or stretch to fit up to 15. Not too shabby, Modern Carry.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 4.54 x 3.24 x 0.59 Inches | Colors Available: Purple, Green, Tan, Orange, + | Capacity: 3 Cards
If you’re looking for an iPhone card holder, why not try something Apple official? While this isn’t a phone case, we don’t want you to go out and buy a whole new one when this little helper exists.
This isn’t just a stick-on case, it’s made of some killer leather, MagSafe compatible, and has ‘Find My’ so if you happen to lose it, you can track it down safely. That is one of my favorite features, I love the idea that I don’t have to carry around a bulky tracking tag (as someone who misplaces everything).
If you aren’t aware of MagSafe, it’s one of the coolest phone accessories you’ll find. It’s basically a magnetic case that lets you slap on all sorts of awesome accessories. Just like this wallet. It’s more expensive than a lot of similar options, but it’s better quality than most. And, well, it’s Apple.
Material: PVC | Dimensions: 4 1/4″W x 3 1/4″H x 1/2″D | Colors Available: Black, White, Silver | Capacity: 2-8 Cards
Maximalism has been making a splash lately. If you want to stay true to the fashionista trends and fit in with the hypebeasts, take a look at Bao Bao’s Geo card case, one of the most prolific designers in Japan.
This flashy card case pattern is composed of triangles in a way that makes it look like a 3D piece of art. Except you can fit this art in your pocket. This visual wonder will definitely make an impression anywhere you take it, so don’t be surprised when folks ask about it.
This one is definitely on the higher end but works especially well with formal wear (hello your favorite suit) or if you’re looking to make a subtle splash every time you take it out.
Material: Elastic | Dimensions: 2.2 x 3 Inches | Colors Available: Black, Navy, Multicolor, Patterns, + | Capacity: 2-8 Cards
If you want a high-quality yet colorful card holder, you need these elastic wallets from Thread Wallets. Even if you don’t think you’d like an elastic wallet, the great design will make you rethink that.
These card holders stand out in the crowd. Colors and patterns range from mountain scenes to floral patterns to rainbows and color gradients. Thread Wallets really have something for everyone here.
Material: Fabric | Dimensions: ? 0.4 x 5.3 x 7.9 Inches | Colors Available: Black | Capacity: 28
A 12-card capacity just isn’t enough for some people. For guys who leave the house with a couple dozen cards, this wallet is for you. I can’t imagine there are too many, but hey. This beauty can keep up to 28 cards. That must be some kind of record, right?
This is the best card holder for men that iN. has to offer, whether it’s for a niche group or not. Even though it’s a max-capacity beast, it’s still no bigger than a greeting card. Will it be tough to fit this big boy in a pocket? Yes, but it’s great for a trendy belt bag. Is it worth it for certain guys? Absolutely.
What To Look For When Buying The Best Card Holder Wallet
Material
Material-wise, metal will be the longest lasting and could survive a tornado in style. Leather and wood won’t hold up as well, but they look damn good. Really, you need to think about what you need the card holder for. If you want to look cool and debonair, leather is probably the way to go. Want unique? Try wood or elastic. Or even just a fun crazy color.
Most card holders don’t function all that differently, so just go by what material you like the look and feel of the most. If you don’t know what your favorite material is, scroll back up and check out the guide.
Capacity
Capacity is important when it comes to the best card holder wallets for men. If you’ve got a slew of cards you need to bring around, you might want one with a larger capacity. If you’re the type who only needs their ID and a debit, why not go as slim as possible
Either way is fine. Just think about what cards you need and what you can leave out and go from there.
Color
Color isn’t quite as important as capacity, but a fun color or pattern will always influence how people see you. If you want to inject a little more personality, get your favorite color of the best card holders for men. Your favorite color is black, you say? Maybe give a leather card holder a shot. Crazy colors on your agenda? Rainbow leatherette is probably for you.
Final Verdict
Luca Faloni’s leather bifold won the best card holder overall because it’s the most versatile option. It’s the most wallet-like design in the guide while staying nearly as slim as possible, so it might appeal to more people than typical card holders. It’s also made by one of the best producers of Italian leather goods in the world, so you really can’t go wrong.
FAQ
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It all depends on what you need from the best card holder wallets. I know you want to hold cards; that’s a given. You might want one made of different materials than others, though. If you want something stiffer, get metal or wood. You could also get leather or other fabric if you want a softer touch.
This might be obvious, but if you only have a few cards, you’ll be fine getting something with only a few spaces for cards. If you’re the type of person who has cards for everything from Target to Mcdonald’s, you’re going to want some serious capacity.
Keep color in mind too. If getting your personality across is important to you, get something with a color or pattern that speaks to who you are.
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Organizing a card holder all depends on what cards are most important to you. The more you use it, the easier it should be to access. There’s nothing wrong with leaving that Footlocker credit card in the depths, but you might want to have your debit card and ID easy to reach.
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Alan Gregory is an in-house writer and creative conduit at Fashionbeans. He has a keen interest in vintage beard styles, thrift store diving, and scouring Philadelphia for delicious dining.
