The Ridge Wallet in 2024 [Ultimate Guide + 4 Bonus Products!]

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The Ridge Wallet Review! In this guide we will cover tips to get the most out of your wallet and a few Ridge products beyond those iconic metal wallets too!)

Admit it: there was a time when you thought having a bulging, ripped-at-the-seams bulky wallet filled with cash and credit cards was a symbol of status. Not terribly practical, huh?

Nowadays, the design, durability, and materials that go into producing your wallet are far more important than how many bills or business cards it can hold.

That’s the thought process behind the products offered by The Ridge Wallet, and in this review, we’ll dive into the best wallet and other accessories provided by this company. 

Article: Ridge Wallet Review Image: Ridge wallet on wood table

The Ridge Wallet Review

There are three (3) main types of wallets offered, categorized by the material with which they’re made: there’s the Aluminum, the Titanium, and Carbon Fiber. 

The Ridge Wallet For Men, Slim Wallet For Men - Thin as a Rail, Minimalist Aesthetics, Holds up to 12 Cards, RFID Safe, Blocks Chip Readers, Titanium Wallet With Cash Strap (Burnt Titanium)
The Ridge Wallet For Men, Slim Wallet For Men - Thin as a Rail, Minimalist Aesthetics, Holds up to 12 Cards, RFID Safe, Blocks Chip Readers, Titanium Wallet With Money Clip (Burnt Titanium)
The Ridge Wallet For Men, Slim Wallet For Men - Thin as a Rail, Minimalist Aesthetics, Holds up to 12 Cards, RFID Safe, Blocks Chip Readers, Carbon Fiber Wallet With Money Clip (Carbon Fiber)
Widest Range of Color Choices
The Toughest Option
The Lightest Option
The Ridge Wallet For Men, Slim Wallet For Men - Thin as a Rail, Minimalist Aesthetics, Holds up to 12 Cards, RFID Safe, Blocks Chip Readers, Titanium Wallet With Cash Strap (Burnt Titanium)
Widest Range of Color Choices
The Ridge Wallet For Men, Slim Wallet For Men - Thin as a Rail, Minimalist Aesthetics, Holds up to 12 Cards, RFID Safe, Blocks Chip Readers, Titanium Wallet With Money Clip (Burnt Titanium)
The Toughest Option

Dimensions and Weight

All three of the wallets in their line feature the same dimensions: 3.4 x 2.13 x 0.24 inches (86 x 54 x 6 mm) , the ideal size to carry in your pocket or a backpack, or keep in the center console of your car. What varies, however, is the weight, material, and color selection of each. 

Aluminum: Overall weight of each Aluminum wallet is 2 oz., and the weight of each does not change based on whether you order a wallet with the cash strap or the money clip (more about these features below). 

Titanium: Overall weight of each Titanium wallet is 2 oz, and like the Aluminum, the weight of each does not change based on your desired feature of a cash strap or a money clip.

Carbon Fiber: The lightest item of the line, the Carbon Fiber wallets weigh an overall 1.6 oz.  

Color Selection

The Aluminum wallet has the most varied array of color choices, with two of them (Tiki and Tropical) more patterns than colors. The Titanium and Carbon Fiber wallets are more of the no-frills items in the line, but are nevertheless as attractive as they are sleek. 

These colors are correct at the time of writing, but Ridge are adding new color options and combinations all the time.

Aluminum: Black / Gunmetal / Matte Olive / Navy / Raw / Matte White / Tiki / Tropical / Rose Gold / Gold / Desert Tan / Celeste

Titanium: Burnt / Gunmetal / Matte Black / Matte Cobalt

Carbon Fiber: Carbon Fiber 3K / Forged Carbon (Note: both of these wallets read as black; Forged Carbon refers to the manufacturing process that blends the carbon fiber with resin)

Durability

The relentless durability of all three kinds of wallets is what keeps people coming back to the brand. All three wallets come with a lifetime guarantee, and if you feel your needs are not being met, Ridge Wallet will allow you to return your purchase within 45 days. 

The Ridge Minimalist Slim Wallet For Men - RFID Blocking Front Pocket Credit Card Holder (Burnt Titanium)

On either side of all the wallets, you’ll find an elastic strap that is as tough as it is expandable. This strap keeps all of your cards in place and keeps them from falling out. It’s this design that allows you to keep one or 10 cards in there at the same time without fear that you’ll lose any. 

See Also:  Ridge Wallet vs Dango vs Trayvax [The Ridge vs The Rest!]

Aluminum: The Aluminum wallets are made from anodized aluminum, which is three times as durable as regular or standard aluminum. The anodizing process increases the thickness of the material, but also makes it impervious to rusting, flaking, chipping, and other forms of wear and tear. 

Titanium: All of the wallets in this collection are fashioned from Grade 5 Titanium, which is an alloy (meaning two or more metals are used to create the material), making it harder and much more durable than regular, standard titanium. (source)

Carbon Fiber: Of all three in their wallet line, the Carbon Fiber wallets are by far the strongest, even if they are the lightest (Carbon Fiber has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than Titanium or Aluminum).

The Carbon Fiber 3K is designed from woven fiber, which makes this wallet resistant to heat and thermal expansion. It also makes it incredibly durable, and gives it a cool looking design. Forged carbon is made from pressing carbon fiber filaments together for an even more durable product because of its fiber strength. 

Overall Functionality

The Ridge Wallets cater to those who, simply put, are tired of bulk, of not being able to fit their wallets in their pockets, or who have lost money because of a faulty or a loose money clip.

Your preference in buying these wallets is going to come down to design and color, as there is not much difference between them when it comes to their reliability and durability.

The most obvious difference will be in the weight (barely an ounce, however) as well as the features: the cash strap versus the money clip. 

Ridge Wallet: Money Clip vs Strap?

There are some who prefer to go the traditional route and choose a wallet with the money clip. Many have been turned off of this feature from previous wallets, as the clips over time have a tendency to become weaker and your money can fall out.

Not so with the money clips on the Ridge Wallets:

Titanium Forged Ember with Money Clip
  • Unlike some money clip wallets we've tested, the money clip on the Ridge is extremely secure
  • The Ridge is a little thicker with the money clip, sacrificing some of the slim profile for convenience

I have the money clip myself and I’ve seen the same thing that other people have commented – sometimes the presence of the money clip makes it a tad difficult to move the wallet in and out of your pocket, as the clip can catch on your pants.

It’s not a huge deal, but some people have replaced the money clip with the cash strap for exactly this reason. 

In both cases though, your dollar bills aren’t going anywhere: 

Titanium Forged Ember with Cash Strap
  • The cash strap practically hugs your money, and this is the feature people tend to go with if they're carrying more than just a few bills around
  • The elastic is firm, but expandable, allowing you to carry more bills more comfortably than the money clip
  • The profile is a little slimmer than the money clip

**TIP – you can outfit any of these wallets with the cash strap or the money clip… or BOTH (one on either side).

Why lock yourself in? You can purchase each separately and add either or both to the wallet of your choice.

RFID

Another feature that customers – especially those who travel often – will enjoy is the RFID blocking technology. Each wallet is manufactured to keep your ID and your credit card information safe. 

Card Access

On all of the wallets, you will notice a half-moon shaped cut out. This cut-out is important in that it allows you to push up your cards over the top of the wallet. The cards will appear at the same height, which is easy if you need the first or the last card in the “deck”, so to speak.

**TIP: If, however, you need to access a card that is in the middle, all you have to do is press the cards out at an angle by pushing more towards the back of the cards than at the front. This will create a sort of fan shape (below), and then you can extract just the card you need. 

Ridge Wallet with cards fanned out
Fanning out the cards

Repeat this step when you go to replace that card into the wallet in its original position.

See Also:  The 45 Best Minimalist Wallets for 2024

Buyer’s Guide – The Bottom Line

If you’re drawn to sleek, minimalist wallets, want the best materials, and care about the safety and security of your cards, IDs, and money, then this is the wallet for you. 

Which Ridge Wallet is Right For You?

Since the wallets are all the same dimensions, and even the lighter-weight carbon fiber isn’t that much lighter than the others, which wallet is right for you comes down to aesthetics.

Your choices will come down largely to:

  • Looks. There are a wide range of styles and colors. Want a sleek, subtle look? Try the Navy Aluminum. Want something bold to grab attention? Try the Titanium Forged Ember.
  • Cash-strap or money clip. Choose the cash strap if a slim form factor is one of your must-haves. Choose the money clip for a more traditional look that will hold your cash crazy tight (see more in this cash strap or money clip article)

The Ridge Minimalist Slim Wallet
  • Ridge wallets are a stylish, yet no-frills solution to the bulky wallet that you've been walking around with
  • While they tend to be more expensive than your traditional wallet, keep in mind that you're paying for the high quality materials as well as the peace of mind that your cards and cash will be secure


Ridge Wallet – The Background

Daniel Kane and his father, Paul, started Ridge Wallet with the help of the website Kickstarter back in 2013. The idea to start the company was born from Daniel’s frustration at having to use rubber bands to keep his wallet closed. He was able to harness that frustration and turn it into a hugely-successful business.

The entire concept is based around carrying only what you need with you on a daily basis, in a sleek carrier that will last you nearly a lifetime. And voilà: the Ridge Wallet collection. 

Not only is their product line sold via their website; they also sell their wallets and accessories in stores and malls all across the United States.

VISIT RIDGE

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does The Ridge Wallet Come with a Screwdriver?

Each wallet you purchase will come with a small screwdriver for two main reasons : (i) this will help you to tighten the screws used to manufacture your wallet should they become loose for whatever reason, but also (ii) the screwdriver also allows you to take apart your wallet if you want to change out, for instance, your money clip for a cash strap. 

What Type of Screws Does The Ridge Wallet Use?

The Ridge Wallet uses Torx Star Screws

The Ridge Wallet uses Torx “star” screws. A Torx screwdriver is provided with purchase.

Does The Ridge Wallet Scratch Easily?

Easily, no. It can of course be scratched like any flat piece of metal (or leather for that matter) but I’ve dropped mine plenty and its never been an issue.

Is The Ridge Wallet Uncomfortable To Sit On?

Absolutely. But we strongly recommend not carrying your wallet in your back pocket anyway as there are all sorts of issues with that.

How Much Cash Can The Ridge Wallet Hold?

Like all minimalist wallets, the idea is to carry less cash! Nevertheless, either the money clip or cash strap versions should comfortably be able to hold 15-20 bills

Does The Ridge Wallet Have a Tracker?

There is no built-in GPS tracker, and Ridge does not sell one directly. There are credit card sized trackers that would fit inside the wallet, but we think the metal plates would interfere with the GPS reception. Instead, try Ridge’s own AirTag attachment that sits outside the Ridge wallet


But Wait, There’s More!

Despite starting on Kickstarter as Ridge Wallets, they have expanded and now sell more than just wallets. We’re very excited about this – read on for more!

Phone Cases

The series of phone cases offered by the company are solely for iPhone users (sorry, Samsung).

See Also:  Ridge Wallet Cash Strap Or Money Clip - Which Is Right For You?

In total, there are six different phone cases offered on their website: four are iPhone card cases which only differ in color and size, depending on the iPhone model you have.

The other two are shockproof card cases, which also only differ depending on phone model. All six options weigh 0.5 oz and come with a one year warranty. It should be noted that none of the phone cases offered feature RFID-blocking pockets.

phone cases by ridge
Ridge Wallet Phone Case

Standard vs. Shockproof

The standard, non-shockproof phone cases can hold up to two cards snugly at the back of your phone. They are also fashioned with oil waxed full grain leather, and come in two colors: brown and black. The brown one in particular has a cool, rugged feel to it.

In terms of sizing, the cases are true to form depending on the phone you have, and when you slip it into the case, you won’t find that the buttons on the side are blocked, as can happen with some cases. 

The shockproof phone case comes in three colors: OD Green, Black, and White. Like the other case, it also can house up to two cards in the back pockets for the true minimalist in you.

The bumpers that surround the phone are made from TPU, or Thermoplastic Polyurethane, which is a rubber-like substance that protects the phone should it fall or drop from a relatively high surface. TPU is the more preferable material when fashioning shockproof phones, even more so than silicone. 

These Cases Are Perfect For …?

So who is using these phone cases with only a two-card capacity?

People who are on the go or are in no need of a wallet to carry cash or multiple cards at once will like these cases. You might be someone who only really uses their ID and one main credit card, or you might be someone who doesn’t mind switching your cards out depending on where you’re going or what you need in a given day.

Just make sure that one of the cards in your phone is your ID. This is also ideal for someone who prefers electronic forms of pay (think Samsung or Apple Pay) in lieu of carrying around cash and multiple credit cards. 

The Bags

Whether you consider yourself a frequent traveller, an avid hiker, or just someone who needs a bag for a weekend-getaway, Ridge has you covered.

They feature eight different products in their bag line, pertaining to four categories: two commuter backpacks, two classic backpacks, two weekenders (which look like duffel bags), and two travel kits. In each category, they offer one that is weatherproof and one that is ripstop.

Commuter vs. Classic Backpacks

The weatherproof commuter backpack comes in black and is manufactured using waterproof 600D nylon, making it as durable as it is impervious to water damage. The ripstop version of the backpack is made using a strong fiber that will not continue to rip if the material should tear. It is offered in navy or olive. 

This commuter backpack names its target audience in its title. It’s perfect for people who are on the go and do not want the fuss of a big bag, especially those who commute by public transportation.

If you’re someone who likes to take their gym clothes and water bottle to work, even better. It has a pretty impressive capacity and still affords you a little wiggle room for things like a water bottle, an extra pair of shoes, and your lunch. 

Ridge The Commuter Backpack- Ripstop | Lightweight and Durable | Antitheft Backpack | Travel Carrier with Laptop Compartment | Navy

You can choose to get either backpack with the additional power bank featuring an external USB port if you need it. Both come with a hidden RFID-blocking pocket, a shock-resistant laptop holder, a luggage strap, and a water bottle holder. The dimensions of the two backpacks are 18 x 12 x 6 inches and have a 15L capacity.

The main difference between the commuter and the classic backpacks seems to be the amount of pockets and the dimensions. While the commuter backpack has more pockets and thus more organizational ability to keep your items separate, the classic backpack has a 22L capacity and measures 17 x 12 x 5.5 inches. Like the commuter, the classic backpacks are offered in black for the weatherproof and in navy and olive for the ripstop. 

Even More!

It doesn’t stop there! Ridge also sells multi-tools, mobile power sources, and some cool miscellaneous gadgets such as a bottle opener, a wallet-sized multi-tool, and some wearable swag.  

Then there’s this pen:

The Ridge Bolt Action Ballpoint Pen | Metal Retractable Compact Writing Instrument | Textured Grip & Internal Pressurized Refill | Aluminum

And this key chain:

Ridge Leather Key Chain | Leather Key Ring |Full Grain Leather | Quick Release Clip Key Chain | Gunmetal Clip | Real Leather | Black

They also feature some advice on slimming down your wallet and some tips when it comes to minimalist travel. We can relate to that!

We’re big fans of Ridge Wallets and it’s great to see them be successful and expanding beyond their roots.

VISIT RIDGE

If you’re interested in comparison-shopping though, we wrote an article comparing the Ridge, the Dango and the Trayvax that you might like to browse too.

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Last update on 2024-03-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API