Are you looking for ridge wallet alternatives? Keep reading. If you are not, looking for the best ridge wallet alternatives may sound a bit strange. What other kind of wallet could be better than the ridge wallet, right?
Actually, wrong. Ridge wallets are awesome – do not get me wrong. However, it is likely that the only other ridge wallet alternatives you have considered are everyday cut-and-sewn leather wallets. Also, perhaps you think the ridge wallet is so superior because of the factors you are judging by.
As you read further, you will learn more about ridge wallets, why they are such a big deal, what factors to consider when choosing a ridge wallet, and the best ridge wallet alternatives you can find. Also, you will learn how to identify cheap ridge wallet alternatives that can still meet your needs.
What Is Ridge Wallet?
Simply put, the ridge wallet is a metal alternative to traditional wallets. It is used to hold multiple essential cards and prevent card fraud.
The ridge wallet can also be used to hold money. There are two kinds: the cash strap and the money clip. The cash strap is an elastic band that winds around the wallet. This type of strap usually comes with an aluminium wallet. On the other hand, the money clip holds the money unto the body of the wallet, just like a hair clip.
Benefits of the Ridge Wallet
Generally, the five most outstanding features of the ridge wallet are that it is:
- Ultra-thin
- Holds up to 10 cards
- Is light
- Lasts longer than a conventional wallet
- Blocks Radio-Frequency Identification.
Firstly, ridge wallets are made of metal and are usually super, super, thin. Some of the thinnest ridge wallets are only as thick as a letter-size envelope when they are empty.
Secondly, since it is made of metal, the ridge wallet does not become bulky when stuffed. When you compare that to the tendency of leather wallets to fatten up, you can easily see why ridge wallets are such a big deal.
Thirdly, ridge wallets are lightweight. Thus, they are a handier option to carry around, especially on longer journeys.
Fourthly, they last really long. Their metal hardly wears out. Some of the best ridge wallets can last 10 years and upwards.
Lastly and most importantly, they contain Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) repelling properties. In order to better understand the importance of this, let us look at one rather shocking fact.
Now, did you ever think it was possible to steal from someone, through their bank card, located right in their back pockets, without contact with the card? Well, it is. Forbes demonstrated this in 2012. Not to mention that these kinds of fraud happen to people all the time.
Most credit and debit cards contain microchips that communicate through electromagnetic frequencies. What this means is that any radio-frequency reading device can pick information from a card, without direct contact with it. Scammers and thieves have used this to rob lots of people.
With a ridge wallet that blocks RFID reading devices, your cards are protected from such incidents.
Disadvantages of a Ridge Wallet
- Rigidity
- Uneasy to use
Since they are made of metal, a user may find that the ridge wallet feels uncomfortably stiff against the body.
Also, getting cards out of them is quite tasking. Bear in mind, however, that this depends on the exact type you get. Cash strap wallets are easier to save money with.
Why Are Ridge Wallets So Expensive?
Basically, the reasons can be classified into two parts: production-based reasons and branding-based reasons.
Let us talk about the production-based reasons.
As has already been noted, the ridge wallet is made of metal. Aluminium, steel and titanium are some common metals used for their production. Seeing as these metals are more expensive than leather, naturally, ridge wallets are costlier.
Another important point is the RFID-blocking feature. Recall that the metals used to produce them contain carbon fibre that bounces off electromagnetic waves, making it impossible to read information from the cards in the wallet. Usually, the anti-radiation features are turned on when the wallets are coated with outer plates after they are made.
Even though we cannot say the ridge wallet is overhyped, we cannot also deny that good branding contributes immensely to how much reception it has received.
For instance, when they first became popular some years ago, they were marketed as a hold-all for all things card. Some sellers went further to describe them as some sort of safety vault – technically so since your cards are the link to your money. Since money is a huge motivation for most things, people came for ridge wallets in a rush.
Like every product that eventually sells, good marketing and branding did a good job for the popularity of ridge wallets (there is a lesson there for you if you sell anything).
Are Ridge Wallets Worth It?
As earlier considered, there are many reasons they are in demand. Foremost among them is security.
Then again, it depends on what your “standards” for measuring security are. If you are measuring based on RFID prevention, then maybe they are worth it.
And that is a big MAYBE.
This is because, as ‘non-enthusiasts’ believe, there are alternative and more efficient ways to handle the security risks ridge wallets are meant to prevent.
For example, the world is gradually moving from card to mobile transactions. If you can easily perform transactions on your phone, why do you need to carry a card around? If you do not need to carry a card around, what use is the ridge wallet?
In addition to this, do not forget that technology is advancing – and so are malware and phishing methods. Technically, it is easier to steal from someone from the comfort of your home than to try to do it physically, with a higher risk of getting caught. If hackers have taken the easier route, then why the fuss about ridge wallets?
Nevertheless, cards are not yet completely extinct. If you use cards and have to travel with them a lot, by all means, get a ridge wallet.
Also, if size is your primary motivation – and you are fine with the stiffness of the ridge wallet, then go for it.
How to Choose a Ridge Wallet
First, look out for one with a price that fits your budget.
Next, find out how much RFID resistance your choice of wallet has.
Finally, if you want to carry cash in it, look for one that has an easy and secure way to store cash.
Best Ridge Wallet Alternative 2022
If you are looking for the best ridge wallet alternatives, you should consider one of these:
- DJIN
- Aviator slide
- Rossm Carbon-Fibre Wallet.
Like the ridge wallet, DJIN wallets are made of metal. They are also super thin, comfortable and easy to carry. You can access all the contents of the wallet with one swipe. The wallets come with a separate RFID resistance card that you can just slide into the wallet at your choice.
Aviator slides are better than ridge wallets when it comes to easy access. They have a thin plate located in between each pocket to separate the cards. Then, there is a pull string that pulls out all your cards at once, so you can choose. They equally come with a slide tray for holding coins. Out of all ridge wallet alternatives, our bet is on this one.
The outer plates are made with 100% carbon fibre. This means it is RFID resistant. It is the size of a standard credit card, very light and very thin. If style means a lot to you, go for the Rossm wallet.
Cheap Ridge Wallet Alternative
While ridge wallets are great, they are quite expensive. An average-quality wallet can cost between $80 to $200, depending on the brand and material you choose.
Here are five cheap ridge wallet alternatives to consider.
Amazingly thin for its strength, it comes with three extra cash bands, just in case. The insides are polished, to prevent your card from scratching. To access your cards, press the bottom of the plates together. Your cards will fall out like a royal hand fan.
When talking minimalist, Radix is king. Basically, it is two thin plates of metal held together by an elastic band, which also serves as a cash band. It is very lightweight and can hold up to 10 cards. You slide the cards out from the middle, instead of using a notch, as in the ridge.
It is like a ridge wallet, only with sharper edges, extra screws and a multi-card holder. It is accessed in the same way a ridge is accessed and holds the same 12 cards. Also, it is usually $5 to $10 cheaper than a ridge wallet. Since price is the biggest motivation here, it may still be one of the best ridge wallet alternatives.
This one comes with a money clip, can hold up to 12 cards and is coated with aluminium. It is also anti-scratch, to protect your cards from coin and key scratches.
The Ekster wallet is unique in the sense that it opens with a pop, instead of the common slide method. It has a button that when pushed, causes the cards to pop out into a semi-circle. Its inner metal plate is covered with eco-friendly leather, adding a sleek look to its efficiency.
Ridge Wallet vs Ekster
The Eskter wallet is a great option if you do not want a ridge. However, there are some differences between both types you must take note of.
- Ekster Senate can only hold 6 cards. Ridge wallets hold double that number.
- Eksters are not designed to hold paper cards. This means that your typical student ID, membership card or even hospital card cannot fit in it. Ridge wallets on the other hand hold all types of cards.
- Eksters are covered in leather, which means they are the more aesthetic option.
Conclusion
In summary, if you have to consider ridge wallet alternatives, check to see that they suit you perfectly. Otherwise, there is no harm in sticking to the ridge wallet.
FAQs
Why are Ridge wallets so popular?
Efficiency and marketing. They provide a more efficient alternative to leather wallets. Even so, we cannot take away the place of thorough marketing in their popularity.
Will Ridge wallet scratch my phone?
That will depend on what material yours is made of. Those made of polycarbonate hardly do so. However, the money clip might, since it is made of metal.
Is the Ridge wallet RFID-blocking?
Yes, the ridge wallet blocks RFID.
References
https://www.territorysupply.com – Ridge Wallet Review: Is The Ridge Wallet Worth It?
https://www.howtogeek.com – Are RFID-blocking wallets worth it?
https://www.moderncastle.com – Ridge Wallet Review: 500+ Day Test
https://www.walletsurfer.com/ – 7 Inexpensive Ridge Wallet Alternatives
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