A leather wallet makes an ideal gift for men or women of any age. It is one of the few accessories in US culture that transcends gender, age or social background. There are more sizes and styles of leather wallet available today than ever, and this can make choosing the right one into a complicated task. Here, we will explore the main considerations to help you make the most appropriate choice when buying a leather wallet as a gift.
Flip wallets convey traditional style
First, consider the style of wallet that will best meet the needs of the recipient. Some styles transcend time and changing fashions. Flip wallets that fold open to reveal either bifold or trifold panels are a case in point.
This classic design is compact and easy to slip into any pocket without making unsightly bulges. If in doubt, you really can’t go wrong with this type of wallet. However, there is another sort that is worthy of serious consideration, and that is the long wallet.
A long wallet is ideal in the smartphone age
90 percent of US adults own a smartphone. For most, that means carrying both a phone and a wallet, but an alternative is to choose a long wallet, which is suitable for men or women. Long wallets are ideal for people who use both a phone for mobile payments and more traditional methods like cash and cards. They also have plenty of space, so meet the needs of those who carry their entire world in their wallet.
The obvious downside to a long wallet is its size. But it is still more compact than carrying both a wallet and a cellphone in a separate case or cover. Long wallets often come with a buckle so they can be clipped to a belt buckle for extra security.
Check the quality of the leather
Leather is renowned for being durable and for ageing gracefully, gaining character with the patina that is brought by the passage of years. The better the leather, the longer it will last and the better it will age, so it is important to check the quality.
Full grain leather is the highest quality. It comes from the top layer of the hide, and contains all the natural flaws and imperfections that give leather its unique charm. But it is also harder to work with, so full grain leather products are more expensive. Top grain leather is a good alternative – it is also of high quality, but has the outer level removed. This results in a more uniform and neat appearance. It is also easier to manipulate during manufacture, so full grain leather products are more affordable.
Pay attention to the finish of the wallet
Handmade leather wallets showcase one of the oldest types of craftsmanship. But of course, that means quality can be variable depending on the skill of the manufacturer. There are some simple checks you can make to verify that the wallet has been made to a high standard, even when you are shopping online.
Look closely at the edges of the wallet and the stitches that hold it together. When buying via an ecommerce site, examine the photos and zoom on these areas if possible. Look for straight, symmetrical edges and neat, uniform stitches. These two areas speak volumes for the overall quality levels used by the manufacturer.
Consider the closing mechanism
The final point to consider is the type of closing mechanism for the wallet. A snap button is the most common for flip wallets, and is both secure and convenient. Some wallets have a zipper closure, which is less elegant but provides added security. Long wallets typically have a magnetic closure, using a concealed magnet in the closing flap that ensures the wallet stays closed. It is sleek and lends a more modern look.
Other mechanisms include buckles or tuck-in flaps. These are arguably less practical than the more common mechanisms, but might appeal to those who favor a more retro or vintage look.