If you want to simplify your everyday carry, it’s time to get rid of those clunky bifold wallets and go for the modern designs of minimalist wallets and card carriers. These designs aim to make a significant positive impact on how you navigate your daily life while minimizing your environmental footprint.
With so many slim wallets out there today, The Ridge and Ekster are two of the most well-known and respected brands in the market. They started the trend, and many others followed. These wallets aim to make the most significant impact by facilitating a lifestyle change that allows you to move efficiently through the world with a focus on sustainability.
In this review, we’ll compare The Ridge and Ekster wallets head to head. When you’re ready to upgrade your wallet and simplify how you carry your cards and cash, read on to find out which one is for you.
The Ridge
The Ridge Wallet, known for its metal design, launched a very successful Kickstarter campaign in 2013. Since then, it has sold over 2 million wallets worldwide and is one of the top brands in the minimalist wallet market. This kind of growth speaks to its focus on quality and functionality and the demand for simple everyday carry solutions.
The Ridge wallet is made from durable materials like aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber, so it’s tough and light. The design is modern and looks great, but it also allows for easy access and organization with RFID blocking to protect your information from digital theft. You can choose from various colors and finishes to match your style while keeping the wallet’s core functionality.
In addition to wallets, The Ridge has added a range of other everyday carry items to their product lineup in recent years. Their key organizers reduce bulk and silence jingling, their backpacks are practical without being ugly, and they’ve even ventured into phone cases and pens. They’ve expanded into other product categories to give their customers a one-stop shop for all the gear they need to live their best lives.
Ekster
Founded in 2015 through a successful crowdfunding campaign, Ekster wants to create innovative products that change the wallet game. By focusing on ease of use and accessibility, their flip-out wallets and card carriers have gained a following of over 500,000 fans worldwide.
Ekster’s design philosophy is about functionality so that you can access your cards with a simple button press. Their wallets have RFID blocking, so your information is safe, and they have a slim, minimalist profile. They offer various styles and colors so you can match your taste without compromising on functionality.
Ekster plans to continue its commitment to sustainability with future intentions and strategies that reinforce its brand values and mission.
In addition to its original wallet products, Ekster has added everyday carry essentials like laptop sleeves and phone cases to its lineup, all with the same user-friendly approach. One of their standout products is their anti-theft tracking card, which can be inserted into wallets and helps you find your belongings through a smartphone app.
Ekster is also committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production processes that will appeal to the environmentally conscious. Reducing its carbon footprint and stylish and functional designs make Ekster a great choice for those who want to upgrade their everyday carry while being kind to the planet. Whether you’re heading to the office or going on an adventure, Ekster has the perfect solution for a modern wallet with the smallest impact on the environment.
The Wallets We Tested
Since both brands have released multiple wallet options, we decided to test their original models. Here are:
Ekster Slim Aluminum Cardholder
The Ridge Aluminum Wallet
Both brands also offer multiple color options for these wallets – more on that later.
Specifications
Ridge Wallet
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 2 oz
Dimensions: 0.24 x 3.39 x 2.1 inches
Capacity: 1-12 cards
Price: $95
Ekster Wallet
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 3.94 oz
Dimensions: 0.29 x 4.1 x 2.3 inches
Capacity: 1-15 cards
Price: $79
Ease of Use
The Ridge and Ekster wallets have two different ways of getting to your cards and nearly identical ways of carrying cash – with one exception. When it comes to ease of use, I prefer the Ekster wallet. For starters, being able to flick your cards out casually is fun – like clicking a pen but less annoying to those around you. This adds a bit of fun to using the wallet and makes it more practical. When you use a minimalist wallet like Ekster, the flip-out design allows quicker and easier access to your cards, so it’s perfect for situations where you need to grab a card on the go – like at a coffee shop or when checking out at a store.
In contrast, the Ridge wallet can make it hard to get to a specific card, especially when you’re near the max capacity of around 12 cards. The elastic band squishes the cards together, which can be frustrating when you need to dig through them to find the right one. This can be incredibly annoying in busy situations where time is of the essence, as fumbling with the wallet can slow you down.
As for cash storage, Ekster uses a secure and flexible elastic band. This allows easy access when you need to pay with cash and keeps your money organized. Ekster’s elastic band is great for those who prefer to carry cash in an elastic band. The Ridge offers the option of an elastic band or a money clip. The money clip is an excellent feature for those who like to carry cash in a money clip – it’s quick and sleek. But ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference – if you like money clips, The Ridge is the better option. Otherwise, it’s a toss-up.
Security
Of course, a wallet is only as good as its ability to keep your cards and cash organized and safe. Security is key when choosing a wallet, especially in today’s world, where identity theft and card skimming are big concerns.
RFID Protection
Both the Ridge and Ekster wallets have RFID-blocking technology built in. This feature protects your radio transmitting cards and ID badges from being scanned by unauthorized scanners, which can lead to identity theft. Some may say RFID skimming isn’t a big deal for most people, but having this layer of protection is good peace of mind, especially for those who travel frequently or use public transportation.
Cash Carrying Capacity
Both wallets hold onto cards and cash well and are similar in cash-carrying capacity. Both have secure banded options, and The Ridge has a money clip option for those who like to carry cash in a money clip. This gives users the option to choose what’s best for their lifestyle.
Card Carrying Security
However, card-carrying security is where the big tradeoff between the two wallets becomes apparent. The Ekster wallet is great for quick and easy access to your cards, which is a significant advantage in fast-paced situations. But depending on the cards you’re carrying, there’s a risk they can come loose and fall out. Don’t carry the Ekster wallet in your back pocket, as this will increase the chances of a card spilling out accidentally, which can be frustrating and result in a lost card.
In contrast, the Ridge wallet may make it slightly harder to access your cards compared to the Ekster, but this design choice also means it holds onto your cards more securely in your pocket. The elastic band gives a snug fit, so your cards won’t fall out.
Overall Security Winner
For card security, The Ridge is the clear winner.
Additional Feature: Tracker Card
However, note that Ekster does offer a tracker card that can help you locate your wallet in case of theft or loss. Ensuring that your browser is configured correctly, particularly with regard to accepting cookies, is crucial for the optimal functionality of the tracker card. This tracker card is an extra cost but is cheaper than replacing your wallet and all the IDs and cards inside. This feature can save you a lot of frustration and time, so it’s worth considering if you tend to lose things.
Smart Features and Technology
Our products are designed with the latest technology to ensure that you stay connected and organized on the go. Our smart wallets feature a credit card-sized global tracker that allows you to locate your wallet on a map, receive notifications when it’s moved, and even track your spending habits. Our gear is also designed to be minimalist and compact, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. With our products, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your belongings are safe and secure.
Durability
When it comes to durability, both the Ekster and Ridge wallets present an interesting scenario: their cases are super tough, but the cash-carrying options will eventually wear out.
Tough Cases
Both brands have baseline models with aluminum cases that can take a beating. These tough cases are designed for daily use, and unless you’re intentionally trying to smash them with a hammer, they will last a lifetime. This is a big selling point for both wallets, as users can trust their investment will hold up over time.
Cash Carrying Options
But there’s a caveat with the cash-carrying options. Both wallets use elastic bands to hold cash, and there’s no way around the fact that these bands will wear out with use. The Ridge has replacement elastics, which is a nice touch for those who want to keep their wallet functional over the long term. Ekster doesn’t seem to have replacement bands yet, which could be a con for those who carry cash frequently.
Material Options: Recycled Aluminum
For even more durability, lightness, or a different look, The Ridge offers its wallet in more materials. Carbon fiber stands out as the strongest and lightest option. This material makes the wallet more durable and gives it a sleek, modern look for those who want both function and style.
Card Deployment Mechanism
Also, note that the Ekster wallet has a plastic card deployment mechanism. While this may raise questions about long-term durability, it doesn’t immediately disqualify the wallet from being durable. The mechanism seems well-designed for repeated use, and so far, it’s working fine without any issues. I’ll monitor it over time and update you if any problems arise.
Style
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and while personal taste varies, when you’re spending $100 on a new wallet, you want it to put a smile on your face every time you reach for it. Let’s look at the style differences between the Ekster and Ridge wallets.
Slim and Front Pocket-Friendly Minimalist Wallet
Both wallets are slim and have the same dimensions, so they fit in the front pocket. This is a big plus for those who like a minimalist approach to their everyday carry. In this regard, there’s not much difference between the two, so it’s a tie for those who value a slim profile.
Color and Material Options
The Ridge has more color and material options. From classic aluminum to modern carbon fiber, users can choose a selection that fits their style. However, all these options are based on the same wallet design, so they’re not that unique.
Ekster offers more wallet styles to cater to different tastes and needs. Their colors and materials are more subdued, which can be a plus for those who want a more understated and elegant look. The simplicity of Ekster’s designs is a strength, especially for those who want a wallet that matches a professional or formal look. Customers often express satisfaction with their purchase due to the variety of options available.
Tactical vs. Professional Feel
Overall, I’d say The Ridge Wallet has a more tactical feel. Its design and material options give it a rugged utilitarian look that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or those who like an industrial look. This look is great for those who want their wallet to reflect their active lifestyle.
The Ekster wallet has a more professional feel. Its lines and materials are sleek and refined, making it great for business and formal occasions. Those who want a polished look may prefer the Ekster wallet.
Price and Value
We believe that better gear shouldn’t have to break the bank. That’s why we offer competitive pricing and regular sales and promotions to help you get the gear you need at a price you can afford. During Cyber Week, for example, you can enjoy a sale price of €129 on select products, representing a 50% discount on the regular price. We also offer a lifetime warranty on all our products, so you can trust that your gear will last for years to come.
Brand Reputation and Customer Support
At Ekster, we’re committed to creating a positive impact on the world, not just through our products but also through our business practices. We’re proud to be a certified B Corp, which means that we meet rigorous standards for social and environmental responsibility. Our customers rave about our products, and our customer support team is always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have. We’re dedicated to creating a community of like-minded individuals who share our passion for better gear and a better world. Join us today and experience the Ekster difference for yourself!
Conclusion
The Ridge Wallet
The Ridge wallet has many color and style options to fit your personal taste. Its robust design ensures that your cards will be secure while you’re on the move, which is a big plus for those who value safety and durability in their everyday carry.
But this security comes at a cost. The Ridge wallet can make accessing your cards a bit more complicated, especially when you need to grab a card quickly. The snug fit requires a bit of fumbling, which can be a disadvantage for those who value speed and efficiency.
The Ekster Wallet
The Ekster wallet excels at lightning-fast card access. It’s so much fun and satisfying to use. The flip-out mechanism allows for quick card retrieval, which is a big plus in busy environments. This is especially useful for those who find themselves in situations where they need to present their cards quickly, like at checkout lines or when paying for services.
However, note that the Ekster wallet requires careful handling. To avoid cards spilling out, you need to keep your wallet upright. This may be a concern for those who are more active or who carry their wallet in less secure places like back pockets.
Recommendations
With all that in mind, I would recommend the Ridge wallet to my outdoor friends who want a rugged and secure option that can withstand the elements. Its durability and many styles make it perfect for those who live an active lifestyle.
I recommend the Ekster wallet to my 9-to-5 friends who want quick access and a polished look. Its usability is perfect for busy workers. Additionally, the Ekster wallet is ideal for giving as a gift to loved ones, making it a thoughtful present for occasions like Christmas.