Well, here we are. Just two guys hanging out on a webpage solely dedicated to finding you a Ridge wallet alternative. Specific. That’s pretty specific.
Now, there are several reasons why you may have found yourself here.
1. You’re fully aware that Ridge makes some of the best carbon fiber and metal wallets in existence, (because you’ve read my Ridge Wallet Review) but you have no interest in paying up to $250 for one.
2. …
Fine, one reason. But it’s a pretty damned good one if you ask me, especially considering how many Ridge-like species are out there right now—several of which are half the price. So with a focus on minimalist function, sleek style, and advanced security features, let’s take a spin through 7 of those alternatives now.
Key Takeaways
Ridge wallets are tough to beat in their category, but that doesn’t mean they’re the only game in town. Far from it. The Aviator Slim Slide, for example—my top alternative to the Ridge wallet—is an outstanding minimalist wallet with useful features and top-notch durability. On the budget side of things, you can’t go wrong with the inexpensive utility and sleek good looks that the Radix One offers.
Our Top Picks
Aviator’s Slide has everything you could ask for in a minimalist wallet. It’s RFID-protected to keep would-be thieves from accessing your card information, can be adjusted to hold multiple cards, and features a slide-out coin holder. The German-made design is sleek, unassuming, and lightweight.
But what really makes this the Ridge wallet alternative to beat is its pull strap, which gives you easy access to up to 20 cards and allows you to fan them out. Though it’s not the cheapest wallet on this list, it still comes in less than the Ridge and offers a solid value for the features you’re getting. It’s one of the best wallets you’ll find in its category and, importantly, one of the best you’ll find for its price.
Material: Aluminium | Colors: 10 | Size: 4.25 x 3.25 x .25 | Special Feature: Pull Strap For Easy Card Access
The Ridge wallet is quite specific. It’s hard. It’s unobtrusive. Its intention is not to be seen, heard, or even felt. So why am I talking about look-at-me leather as a Ridge wallet alternative? Because not everyone who’s in the market for a minimalist wallet is looking for the back-pocket version of a Ram 1500 TRX.
There’s something to be said for a basic cardholder wallet that not only does its job but looks damn good while doing it.
Material: Leather | Colors: 2 | Size: 3 x 3 x 0 | Special Feature: External Cardholder Pockets
If all you’re in the market for is a slim, lightweight, durable card carrier, you can’t do much better than the Radix One Slim Wallet. And, it’s incredibly cheap. It holds 4 to 10 cards—a perfect size if you’re trying to cut down on clutter and don’t like carrying more than you need.
Cash is secured by a silicon band, which can also be used to hold more cards if needed. Its polycarbonate construction has decent lasting power, but needless to say, you won’t be handing this wallet down to your grandchildren. The upside to that: at this price point, you can replace it as many times as necessary without feeling like you’re throwing cash down the drain.
Material: Polycarbonate | Colors: 6 | Size: 3.5 x 2 x .5 | Special Feature: Weighs Less Than An Ounce
Roco takes minimalism to the next level with this RFID-blocking aluminum wallet. All you’re working with are two plates held together by a band. There are two different band sizes—the smaller is capable of holding up to 6 cards and the larger holds up to 20.
The band can also be used as a money clip, and this Ridge wallet alternative comes in at an incredibly approachable price point. So, yeah, that’s about it. Look at us, keeping this whole “minimalist” theme rolling.
Material: Aluminum | Colors: 1 | Size: 5 x 5 x .7 | Special Feature: No Screws For A Simple, Low-maintenance Product
Ekster’s Senate is a handsome little pocket pal with a feature that sets it apart from the other wallets on this list. When you click the button on the bottom of this Ridge wallet alternative, your cards will pop up like one of those old-school Jack-in-the-Box toys. Except it’s not scary. And there’s no crank arm or music or clowns. Ugh, clowns.
Aluminum sheathed in leather keeps things classy on the outside, while Ekster’s one-year warranty speaks to its durable craftsmanship. This is the wallet for those who appreciate the functionality of Ridge wallets but prefer smoother edges and a friendlier price tag. But if luxury wallets are more your thing, Ekster also teamed up with soccer legend Lionel Messi to create a mini-masterpiece of similar design. The trick is catching it while it’s in stock.
Material: Leather, Aluminum | Colors: 6 | Size: 4.6 x 2.8 x 1 | Special Feature: Card Ejection System
The Hayvenhurst has a lot going for it, including a handsome design, the option of choosing a super durable carbon fiber case, and a unique pull tab for easy access to up to 12 cards. That last part’s pretty cool. Push down on the cards and watch in awe as your cards all become easily and quickly accessable. (That was only dramatic if you make it dramatic.)
But sealing the Hayvenhurst’s fate as a Ridge wallet alternative is its impressive suite of customization options. The minimlist design allows you to find other features to add on. Add a coin holder if you must. Throw in a money clip (while it already comes with one) and choose from four colors. AirTag Holder? That too. Mix and match features to create the perfect wallet for you.
Material: Carbon Fiber | Colors: 4 | Size: 4.45 x 4.25 x 0.75 inches | Special Feature: RFID Blocking
Next in line is the WXM Wood x Carbon Fiber Slim Wallet Slide. You’re not only saving cash by going this route, but you’re still getting a superior-looking product.
This one’s RFID-protected holds up to 15 cards and includes the pull tab so you can easily fan your cards out. What sets this one apart, however, are its materials—carbon fiber and real wood that’s been through a lamination process to create an elevated and unique look. When it comes to indestructible slim wallets that rise above the rest, this one’s tough to beat.
Material: Carbon Fibre and Walnut Wood | Colors: 8 | Size: 3.7 x 2.13 x 0.31 inches | Special Feature: Slim Design and money clip
What To Look For In A Ridge Wallet Alternative
Size
Some Ridge wallet alternatives only hold a handful of cards. Others, like Aviator’s Slim Slide, hold up to 20. Think about what your everyday carries include, from your driver’s license to insurance cards—if you only have a few and are a fan of minimalist wallets, don’t go bigger than you need to. Alternatively, you won’t have a problem finding a slim wallet with substantial breathing room for your cards.
Design
Do you want your cards to be sandwiched between two plates or ejectable via a button on the side of your wallet? Is it meant to be seen like the leather-cloaked Ekster Senate, or is it the strong and silent type like the Radix One? With such a niche aesthetic, design should play an integral role when you’re deciding on the best Ridge wallet alternative for you.
Color
I don’t normally think of color as a deciding factor when it comes to wallet choice, but consider this an exception. Ridge wallets and their alternatives tend to err on the industrial side. A warm earth tone or a splash of vibrant color can help smooth out the edges of these otherwise all-business wallets. Consider your lifestyle and whether or not you care who sees your Ridge wallet alternative before making your choice.
Final Verdict
There’s a dizzying array of minimalist wallets on the market right now. My top overall pick is Aviator’s Slim Slide, not only for its nearly indestructible German construction but also for its attention to detail and innovative pull tab for easy access to up to 20 cards. Regardless of your budget or wallet must-haves, there’s a Ridge wallet alternative out there for you.
FAQ
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The price of a wallet is relative to your financial situation and what you place value on as a consumer. If you’re looking for something you can pass down through generations, the indestructible Ridge has you covered. If all you’re looking for is a solid bifold wallet, you’ll likely perceive the Ridge as overpriced.
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At the time of publishing, no credible link has been made between RFID-blocking wallets and damaged credit cards.
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Ridge makes outstanding wallets that will be functional and stand the test of time. But if they’re too expensive for your liking or you’d simply prefer a similar product with different features, there’s no shortage of options out there for you.
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