Buying guide for best front pocket wallets
Is lugging around your bulky old wallet becoming a pain in the backside? Then it might be time to consider trading it in for something more compact. Front pocket wallets are a slimmer, more streamlined alternative to regular wallets. With a minimal form that comfortably slips into any pocket, front pocket wallets hold essentials without creating an unsightly bulge. Whether you’re contemplating doing away with full-size wallets or you simply want a more compact option to add to your collection, you’ll find a wide array of front pocket wallets to choose from.
But even if you already have some idea of what you're looking for, sifting through the various types, sizes, materials, and features can be overwhelming. At BestReviews, we strive to simplify every shopping experience. Read on to find out everything you need to know about choosing a front pocket wallet, and check out our top recommendations.
Key considerations
Benefits
Front pocket wallets are more comfortable to carry. There’s no disputing that regular-size wallets have benefits (especially if you frequently carry around wads of cash, receipts, or lots of loose change), but they aren’t exactly designed for user comfort. Front pocket wallets are compact, lightweight, and sleek, lending a barely there feel that anyone can appreciate.
Front pocket wallets strain your back. That chunky wallet stuffed into your back pocket doesn’t just put strain on your garments, it can take a toll on your back as well. Unless you remove your wallet every time you sit, it can cause unbalanced posture and put unnecessary pressure on major nerves, possibly causing serious back issues like sciatica.
Front pocket wallets are accessible and convenient. Whether you’re standing or seated, front pocket wallets are quick and easy to reach. And thanks to the compact dimensions, you can carry one in your front pocket, shirt pocket, or jacket pocket.
Front pocket wallets protect credit cards from damage. Sitting on your cards day in and day out can drastically reduce their shelf life. With a front pocket wallet, there’s no chance of accidentally damaging or cracking the important contents.
Front pocket wallets won’t detract from your style. By now, you already know that a bulky wallet can wear out your clothing and compromise the health of your back, but that bulge in your back pocket doesn’t do your appearance any favors either. Whether you’re fashion conscious or not, a stretched out, sagging back pocket doesn’t look good on anyone. A front pocket wallet is your ticket to a neater overall appearance and a more streamlined profile.
Front pocket wallets are harder to steal. Easy to spot and easy to grab, a wallet placed in a back pocket is every pickpocket’s dream. Reaching into a front pocket, however, is infinitely more difficult. And because front pocket wallets are less visible, using one can reduce your odds of being targeted in the first place.
Types of front pocket wallets
Front pocket wallets come in just about every imaginable style to suit any preference and need. While the finer details might differ somewhat from manufacturer to manufacturer, we’ve outlined all the need-to-know basics of the most common types to make your search a little easier.
Bifold
If you need something compact but loathe the idea of parting ways with your trusty bifold, take heart – there’s a slimmer front pocket version of your old favorite. Granted, it probably won’t have a change compartment, and it might be a smidge larger than other front pocket wallets, but you’ll still get the feel of a traditional bifold wallet, including credit card slots, bill pocket or money clip, and ID card compartment, all in a much smaller package.
Contoured
What sets these front pocket wallets apart is their unique curved shape, which is specifically designed to better fit the contours of a front pocket. Contoured models typically come with several card slots and either a bill compartment or a money clip.
Minimal
If size is your primary concern and you only need to carry the bare essentials, a front pocket wallet might be right up your alley. Ultra slim, these single-layer wallets typically have a rectangular shape with a few card slots and a bill compartment positioned either at the top or on the side.
Money clip
Money clip wallets are another good option if you’re trying to scale down as much as possible. These usually accommodate a generous number of cards and offer the option of securing bills on the outside of the wallet with a magnetic clip, or, in some instances, a tightly fitting elastic or strap.
Metal
Usually made of aluminum or stainless steel, metal front pocket wallets have a firmer exterior that does a superb job of safeguarding cards. Most also offer a strap or clip for bills, but these are primarily designed for those who rely mostly on cards. If you like the idea of the solid feel and rugged appearance, a metal wallet is a standout option worth considering.
Front pocket wallet features
Because front pocket wallets are made to be sleek, simple, and small, they aren’t typically packed with extras. Even so, there are a handful of features worth keeping an eye out for.
Size
Size is arguably the single most important consideration when shopping for a front pocket wallet. Although all of them are designed to be more compact than their full-size counterparts, dimensions and capacity can vary quite a bit. Take a moment to tally the fewest cards and bills you need your wallet to hold, an essential step to finding a good fit.
Material
Front pocket wallets are made of a variety of materials. Leather is favored for its excellent durability and offers a classic look that never goes out of style. However, if you carry a significant number of cards or simply want something that stands out from the crowd, metal could be a good option. Trying to cut back on both size and weight? Then a lightweight nylon or polyester version should fit the bill perfectly.
Weight
Weight might not seem like a particularly important factor, but it can impact both comfort and appearance. Heavier wallets are more likely to cause pockets to sag, making your wallet visible. Size, thickness, and material all play a role in how much a wallet weighs. For this reason, it's best to refer to manufacturer specifications rather than rely on a single element as a reliable indicator of weight. For instance, it’s a common assumption that metal wallets are heftier than others, but this isn’t always the case. Lightweight aluminum can weigh less than genuine leather.
Card and cash slots
Every front pocket wallet accommodates cards, but keep in mind that the number of slots varies greatly from wallet to wallet. Many also come with a compartment for bills, but it's important to note that some use money clips instead to further reduce bulk. If a dedicated bill compartment is important to you, don’t forget to check for this feature.
Card pull tab
Some front pocket wallets come with a pull tab that allows you to easily access your cards with just a tug. This feature can be especially useful in bifolds because it eliminates the need to open the wallet.
RFID blocking
These wallets are enhanced with a protective layer to block RFID chip signals. This feature can help keep your personal information safe from criminals who use scanners to access and copy ID and bank card details.
ID window
Although not a make-or-break feature, a clear ID card window allows you to display your ID card or driver's license without removing it. Even if it isn’t transparent, we recommend choosing a front pocket wallet with dedicated ID slot so you don’t have to sift through the contents of your wallet to find it.
Did you know?
Some front pocket wallets come with a removable money clip and can easily be customized to meet your day-to-day needs.
STAFF
BestReviews
Front pocket wallet prices
For the most part, front pocket wallets tend to be reasonably priced, so finding a suitable option for any budget is easy enough. On average, you can expect to pay between $10 and $100 or more, depending on the size, features, quality, and brand.
Inexpensive: You’ll find a host of affordable options priced between $10 and $20. These tend to be small and basic, but as long as your expectations regarding durability are reasonable, most will get the job done just as well as others.
Mid-range: If you’re looking for a front pocket wallet for everyday use, mid-range models that cost between $20 and $40 generally deliver a good balance of durability, style, and functionality.
Premium: High-quality materials, superior craftsmanship, and designer brands can set you back anywhere between $40 to $100 and more.
FAQ
Q. What’s the best material for a front pocket wallet?
A. That comes down to your personal preference and unique requirements. However, we recommend genuine leather for superior longevity and its tendency to wear well and even improve with age.
Q. How many cards and bills can I fit in a front pocket wallet?
A. That depends entirely on the wallet’s size, compartments, and slots. Most front pocket wallets offer an average of three card slots, a bill compartment or money clip, and an ID card slot. To find out exactly how much a particular model can accommodate, take a look at the manufacturer specifications before you buy.
Q. Do front pocket wallets have change compartments?
A. Unfortunately, the vast majority of them don’t offer a closed compartment for small change. If this is an important feature to you, you might have to do some searching or settle on keeping loose coins in your pocket.
