What Is Your Wallet? A Buyer’s Guide by Lanny Hintz

From the specialized to the sublime, the market offers a wide array of wallets. Wallets can make a great gift, since it is the kind of thing that everyone needs, but may not take the time or money to purchase for themselves. If you are looking for the perfect gift wallet, or have finally decided to replace your own worn out old one, read on for some options you may not have considered.

Novel materials. Forget the old standby, leather. How about a duct tape wallet? Duct tape is really durable; think about the kinds of things you usually use it for. Duct tape wallets are available in simple styles, like one pocket pouches, and the more complex, like ones that will hold your checkbook or business cards. If you’re shopping for someone who’s trying to tread more lightly on the earth, how about trying a wallet made out of recycled tire tread? Manufactured from truck tires, these wallets will hold up to all kinds of abuse, and actually look better the older they are because they get shiny as they are worn down by use. Lots of styles are available here too, from wallets with rings to hang on your key chain to ones with snapping coin compartments.

While funky can be fun, you should always keep in mind when buying a wallet that at the end of the day, it’s all about functionality. A wallet that doesn’t fit the lifestyle of the person you’re buying for doesn’t get used. Some wallets are designed for people in special jobs, like law enforcement officers. Shield wallets keep their identification close at hand and safely covered. Know someone who gets jostled around a lot in their job? Think about a wallet with a chain to attach to their belt. If your wallet receiver is a frequent traveler, there are all kinds of styles available to suit them. Wallets with several billfold divisions are good for people who travel internationally and may carry different types of currency. If they are doing a lot of sightseeing, especially in crowded cities, they may want a wallet that hangs around their neck or wraps around the body to prevent pickpocketing. Wallets with compartments to carry airline and train tickets, as well as passports, are a good all in one solution to juggling documents at the airport.

No matter what the need, you can find a wallet that is a perfect fit.