Bellroy Note Sleeve Wallet Review

Bellroy as a company is probably worth mentioning. Bellroy is probably the most successful manufacturer of unique wallets as a company that only sells wallets. Not only this but they take great pride in sustainability and social responsibility – another plus. They also use premium material and don’t shy away from it. The wallets do just as amazing in person as they do in their photography. Let’s go into more detail about the Bellroy Note Sleeve wallet.

Look & Design: A Bifold made from the Modern Age

The Note Sleeve arrived in nice packaging, a heavyweight cardboard envelope/sleeve with a tab-and-slot closure protects the content. As I unpacked the wallet, I noticed it was two-fold, a feature not popular in minimalist wallets. It comes in different colours, up to ten colours, but mine was teal. The leather used feels rich and elegant but doesn’t lack durability. The stitching is perfect, which shows it was well-crafted. Although it is bifold, the interior is interesting as both halves look entirely different in design and function. The left side has a quick-access slot pocket and a pull tab behind it, while the right side with a different colour has two quick-access slots. 

The Huge range of colours available is another benefit of the note sleeve. I’d challenge you to find a colour that you don’t like as the range is huge from standard brown leather through to maroon red and dark green. You can also get the Note Sleeve in a variety of different patterned designs. Something a little different for you more eccentric folks. 

Functionality & Utility: Unique Features & Top Class Storage

As stated above, both halves of the interior hold quick-access slots with the left side having a pull tab. The Note Sleeve can uphold up to eleven cards in total; I manage to fit in my IDs and cards all in the slots available. The pull tab space is where I keep the cards that I use less frequently. Nevertheless, this is a great addition to the design and the pull tag works wonders in easily getting access to this area. This is much needed for people who have many cards.

The bill compartment can hold up to ten banknotes all stretched without having to fold them inside. I, however, feel space should have a little bit more for notes, as it tends to get bulky if you fit in as much as ten notes. Although, I must say minimalist wallets are never made for much cash-carrying. There’s a small pocket flap in the bill compartment where I keep extra cards I don’t use frequently, but it can also be used to store loose coins and change. 

Below are some genreal tech specs regarding the Note Sleeve and some of my thoughts on them:

• Holds 4 – 11+ cards (i found the best amount for me to be 10 cards).
• 102mm x 90mm (medium sized, small compared to a tradtional bifold).
• RFID Protection (stops card skimming and wireless technologty scams).
• Stores flat bills (thanks to the great full-width cash slot.
• 3 Quick access slots and pull tab for less used cards.
• Secret coin pocket (located in the back right ahnd side. Large enought to fit 4-5 coins inside (or 2 keys).
• Premium, environmentally certified leather (Leather sourced through the Leather Working Group)
• Backed by our 3-year warranty (only for manufacting defects, not accidental damage).

In use, the wallet doesn’t have many downsides. As someone who goes for the minimalist style of wallets the slightly bulkier size was noticeable in the pocket but nothing for concern. One thing I’d mention is I found – from other users of the Note Sleeve – that the leather is getting worn out quite easily. I didn’t get enough time to use the wallet as my daily carry so I never experienced this issue. Bellroy does offer a 3-year warranty though which means if your wallet does fall to bits then you can replace it for free. 

The Bellroy Note Sleeve After 5 Years of Use

One of the unique perspectives I bring to the Note Sleeve is that I’ve actually lived with it for over five years, on and off. That kind of usage tells its own story. While it may give away the verdict that I’m a fan, it also gives me the chance to put a well-worn Note Sleeve side by side with a brand-new one and see exactly how this wallet holds up over time.

In the photos below, you’ll see my black Note Sleeve after five years of use next to a fresh brown version. The older wallet clearly shows its age, but in a way that adds character. The leather has developed a deep patina, a natural shine, and unique variations in the grain that I’ve come to appreciate.

Despite the wear, the wallet is still fully functional. The stitching hasn’t come loose or frayed, the structure is intact, and the lining, protected by the outer leather, remains clean and secure. Nothing has warped, faded, or separated. Considering how heavily I’ve used this wallet, it stands as a testament to Bellroy’s choice of materials and the care put into its construction.

Bellroy, Its Cause and Great Sustainability

If you’re looking for a wallet, or a brand, that takes sustainability seriously, Bellroy is a strong choice. While I don’t usually bring up sustainability in a single product review, Bellroy puts so much effort into their practices that it deserves recognition.

The brand is a certified B Corp, which means they meet strict standards of social and environmental responsibility. Their leather is sourced from tanneries that have been rated by the Leather Working Group, ensuring environmentally preferred processes. Beyond materials, Bellroy designs products to last, which reduces waste, and they focus on responsible manufacturing through transparent supply chains and ethical working conditions.

Bellroy also invests in broader initiatives, from reducing their carbon footprint to funding environmental projects that help restore ecosystems. This kind of commitment sets them apart from most wallet brands. Choosing Bellroy isn’t just about getting a functional, well-made wallet, it’s also about supporting a company working towards a more sustainable future.

Just a few examples of the range of colors the Note Sleeve is available in.

Final Verdict: Is the Bellroy Note Sleeve Worth it?

The Note Sleeve is a high-quality wallet, which had a lot of thought put into its design. It also holds a fair share of stuff for a minimalist wallet but comes at $89.00, which can be quite expensive when you consider other minimalist wallets. However, you are sure to get value for your money. The wallet is suited towards people who aren’t looking for a minimalist wallet and simply can’t.

Whether or not you come from a country that still heavily relies on physical cash, or simply have too many credit/debit cards for comfort. You can do a lot worse than the Bellroy Note Sleeve. But the Note Sleeve won’t be for everyone. If you’ve come away from this article and through the note sleeve is a little bit too big for me than why not check out Bellroy’s Flip Case or Low Wallet.

For more information on this wallet please click the link below for more information.