Types of men's wallets: which model suits you?
You don't choose a good men's wallet on color alone. The difference is in the model: a classic billfold that folds open, a slim compact model for your trouser pocket, or a sleek card holder for anyone who only carries cards. In this article we explain the types of men's wallets — including what RFID protection does, which leather suits which use, and how to pick the right model. Every model below is made of genuine cowhide leather with RFID anti-skim protection.
At a glance — our four favorites
A cross-section of the collection: a classic billfold, a compact model, a card holder and a complete gift set.
1. The billfold — the classic fold-over wallet
The billfold is the model most men picture when they hear the word "wallet": a rectangular leather case that folds open like a little book. Inside are card slots side by side, a roomy full-width compartment for banknotes, and on most models a separate coin pocket. It is versatile, roomy and instantly recognizable. Our billfold in black cowhide leather and the vintage brown billfold are both made of sturdy cowhide leather and laid out horizontally, so your cards lie flat next to each other.
Billfold models
Classic fold-over, generously laid out, with RFID protection — in black, brown and soft nappa leather.
Who is a billfold for?
Choose a billfold if you regularly carry banknotes and coins as well as cards, or if you simply like the familiar, classic model. It is the men's model most often given as a gift, precisely because it works for almost everyone. If you prefer a softer feel, look at the nappa leather; if you want a rugged vintage look that develops a beautiful patina, the sturdy cowhide leather is the better fit.
2. The compact wallet — slim and flat in your pocket
Anyone who carries a wallet in a front or inside pocket soon notices that a full billfold bulges. The compact wallet solves that: the same layout, but cut thinner and smaller so it stays flat. You keep room for your most important cards and some cash, without the bulge. Our compact Hunter wallet and the Uppsala compact model are cut specifically for this, while the Oslo series is a lighter, everyday version.
Compact models
Slim and flat, ideal for your trouser pocket — with the essential compartments and RFID protection.
Compact or billfold after all?
Rule of thumb: count what you really use every day. If four to six cards plus some cash is enough, a compact model is nicer — it sits more comfortably and your wallet stays trim. If you keep a lot of loyalty cards, receipts and coins, you will run out of room less quickly with a billfold.
3. The card holder — minimalist for card payers
More and more men pay almost exclusively by card or phone. A full wallet is then overkill and a card holder is enough: a slim leather case for your most important cards, often with a handy pop-up mechanism that fans your cards forward. Our Örebro card holder has an aluminum pop-up compartment with RFID protection and sits so flat you barely feel it. If you would still like a coin pocket on hand, the compact RFID wallet sits somewhere between a card holder and a billfold.
Card holders & slim models
For anyone who only carries cards — minimalist, flat and secure.
4. The gift set — a complete set of leather accessories
Looking for a wallet as a gift? A set is often more complete than a single piece. The Örebro gift set combines the leather card holder with RFID protection and a matching leather key holder in one gift box — in black or brown. It is a rounded-off present for a birthday or for Father's Day, with no need to think about wrapping.
Gift sets for men
Card holder plus leather key holder in one gift box — a complete present.
What does RFID protection do in a wallet?
You will see "RFID anti-skim" on virtually all of our men's wallets. Your bank card and ID card contain a chip that can be read contactlessly at short range. RFID protection is a thin shielding layer in the leather that blocks that signal, so unauthorized readers cannot pick up your card details wirelessly while your wallet is in your pocket. It is no longer an optional extra but a standard, which is why we have built it into almost the entire collection. Worth knowing: RFID stops your cards from being read, and you can still pay contactlessly yourself as soon as you take the card out.
Which type of leather do you choose?
The look and feel of a wallet are mostly determined by the type of leather. A few common terms you will come across with us:
Nappa leather is soft and supple with a smooth, even appearance. It feels good straight away and looks neat — nice if you like a polished, sleek look.
Vintage cowhide leather is sturdier and a little rougher in texture. It has character from day one and develops a beautiful patina through daily use: the leather grows darker and glossier in the places you touch.
Hunter leather sits between the two: a high-quality, full-bodied cowhide leather with a warm, natural tone that works well in both a compact and a billfold model.
A wallet as a gift for him
Not sure which model? A classic billfold or a complete gift set works for almost everyone — and makes a personal present for a birthday or for Father's Day.
Shop all men's wallets →Which color wallet for men?
Black is the safest and most businesslike; it goes with a smart suit and with almost any trousers. Brown and cognac are warmer and more informal, and look good with a casual or vintage style. Dark brown is a good middle ground: less formal than black, but still understated. Giving a wallet as a gift and not sure of the preference? Then black is the most neutral choice. Most of our models, such as the Oslo series, come in both a dark and a warm brown tone.
Shipping
Order before 15:00 CET on a working day and we ship your wallet the same day — the earlier you order, the sooner it arrives. Bags and leather goods ship within the EU only. Jewelry ships worldwide. Delivery within the EU takes 3 to 7 working days, and shipping is free from EUR 100. Every leather wallet is packed neatly; the Örebro gift sets come in a matching gift box, so you can hand it straight over.
Frequently asked questions about men's wallets
What is the difference between a billfold and a compact wallet?
A billfold is the classic fold-over wallet, with room for cards, a full-width compartment for banknotes and usually a coin pocket. A compact wallet has the same basic layout but is cut thinner and smaller, so it sits flatter in your trouser or inside pocket. Choose a billfold for maximum room, compact for comfort.
What does RFID protection do in a wallet?
RFID protection is a shielding layer in the leather that blocks the contactless signal from your bank card and ID card. That stops unauthorized readers picking up your card details wirelessly while your wallet is in your pocket. You can still pay contactlessly yourself as soon as you take the card out.
Which wallet is best if you only pay by card?
If you pay almost exclusively by card or phone, a card holder is the smartest choice: a slim leather case for your most important cards, often with a pop-up mechanism. The Lundholm Örebro card holder has an aluminum pop-up compartment with RFID protection and stays very flat.
Which type of leather is the most hard-wearing?
Vintage cowhide leather is sturdier and more wear-resistant and develops a beautiful patina through use. Nappa leather is softer and smoother with a polished appearance. Hunter leather sits in between: a full-bodied, high-quality cowhide leather with a warm tone. All three are made to be worn every day.
Which color wallet should I choose as a gift?
Black is the most neutral and safest choice: it suits both business and casual clothing. If you are unsure about the recipient's taste, black is almost always right. Brown and cognac are warmer and more informal and suit a casual or vintage style.
Is a wallet a good Father's Day gift?
Yes. A leather wallet or gift set is a practical and personal Father's Day gift that gets used every day. Father's Day falls on a different date from country to country, so check the date where you are and order in good time. Leather goods ship within the EU only, with delivery in 3 to 7 working days.
How many cards fit in a men's wallet?
That depends on the model. A billfold typically holds six to ten cards plus banknotes and coins. A compact model is meant for your four to six most important cards, and a card holder for a select number of cards in a pop-up compartment. Choose based on what you really carry every day.
Love, the Lundholm team
