Edwin Minimalist Wallet

[Buyers Guide 2023]

The Edwin Wallet is a breath of fresh air in a sea of very boring wallets. What makes it so unique for me is its distinct look with its odd shape, various hexagon shapes cut out of its plastic-framed body, and its very distinctive money clip. I’m sure I’m not the only one here but it very much resembles a binder/crocodile clip. The ones we had in primary school and occasionally trap my fingers. Who knows where the guys at Hive Design got the inspiration for this wallet from but I wouldn’t be surprised if it was the classic clip. 

The Edwin Wallet began life as a Kickstarter campaign in 2015 over 2 years ago now and raised over $35,000. So what defines a $35,000 worth of wallet ingenuity and design?  The wallet was designed with simplicity and durability in mind. The wallet has no screws and no elastic bands that degrade over time. The metal of the wallet was specifically chosen to keep the wallet light and prevent any rust. Let’s take a look at The Edwin in more detail. 

The simplicity of a binder clip and organization of a wallet. Easily access cash, a primary card, and secondary essentials with style’. – Edwin Wallet

Look & Design

If you’re considering purchasing the Edwin wallet then you must have been drawn to its highly distinctive and unique designs. The first alliteration dubbed the classic, is fairly plain. On the other hand, the plus model is far more enthusiastic, so to speak, and will be the main focus of this review. With a geometric series of shapes, grooves, and cuts the Edwin Wallet has had a lot of thought gone into its design. Personally speaking, I think it’s a classy, yet modern design interpretation of what a wallet could look like. If Apple was to release a wallet I’d think they’d come up with something like the Edwin which is something of a compliment if I do so.

The Edwin wallet is available in a range of colours which adds to its personality. I got the white but the black and green both look stunning in their own right. Other colours include blue, brown, and grey. See below for a full breakdown of what each cutout does in terms of a function. It’s clever to see the functionality of the design come into play with useable features. 

Functionality & Utility 

The Edwin Plus model is jam-packed with a variety of features for the everyday man and blends seamlessly into its design. For example, the bumps and ridges of the wallet become Flathead screwdrivers, holes become hex wrenches (whatever they are) and grooves become the handiest bottle opener you’ll ever own. Each tool, although perhaps not necessary for most men, does add value to the wallet, and works very well in practice.  

In terms of the wallet’s function for cards and cash storage, I’m kind of on the fence. The binder clip style for holding cash is very effective and enjoyable to use. Having a spring-loaded latch is a nice compromise between traditional wallets and a slim-down approach. Unfortunately, notes will still need to be folded when stored in the Edwin and this is something you have to deal with. Cards can get trapped very easily and if you’re not paying attention while taking or putting back cards they could easily fall out. Nevertheless, this issue didn’t come up that often and was usually when I was rushing. 

Full List of Features (Pro version only):

  • Flathead Screwdriver
  • Phillips Head screwdriver
  • Durable Coating. Prevents Scratches
  • Bottle Opener
  • Wire arm for holding down cash

Usability & Practically

When I used this wallet as my daily carry I found it to be a mixture of good and bad. On one hand, its compact nature is fantastic and is a perfect size for minimalist lovers. But its general functionality, accessing cash and cards, left a lot to be desired. It’s wallets like this that make me better appreciate the classic functionality of a leather wallet. The wallet cuts corners to allow for a smaller size and I sometimes wonder if it’s even worth it.

I also didn’t use any of the additional features which are aimed towards more hands-on men. I never found myself in a situation where I needed a screwdriver or a bottle opener so these features seemed more of a gimmick or novelty than anything. 

The Edwin Wallet also has RFID functionality which adds ample security. For those who don’t know, RFID security is an integrated mechanism for preventing contactless card fraud. Card skimming – as it’s called – is slowly becoming an increasing threat to consumers when shopping and it’s nice Edwin included this as standard in their wallet. 

Final Verdict

An interesting and attractive wallet. It has a range of unique features but its core wallet functionality is not the best. This isn’t a wallet I’d recommend to the everyday Joe. Things like screwdrivers seem cool but end up being useless to most men in daily life. 

Coming in at $37.95 the Edwin wallet is a reasonable price but still expensive compared to other similar wallets on the market. You can also have a custom engraving for an additional $10.00 which is nice. For more information on the Edwin Wallet visit their website by clicking the link below.

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James Thomas

Reviewer of Wallets

Hi, I’m James and I’m the owner, author, and self-proclaimed ‘wallet expert’ here at All The Wallets. I’ve been reviewing wallets for over 10 years and have amassed a collection of over 500 wallets. I’m here to provide you with impartial reviews, information, and news on men’s wallets from across the world. All The Wallets is here to provide you with a trusted source, and directory of some of the biggest and smallest wallet brands and help you make the best decision possible when choosing your next wallet. Learn more about me here.

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