Ekster vs. Ridge: Which Wallet Fits Your Lifestyle?

Your wallet isn’t just a place to stuff your cards and cash. It’s something you carry every single day. It lives in your pocket, travels with you, and (hopefully) makes your life easier, not harder. 

So when you’re choosing a smart wallet, it’s not just about metal vs. leather or size vs. capacity. It’s about how well it fits into your life.

That’s where the Ekster vs. Ridge debate gets interesting. Some people love Ridge’s ultra-minimal metal design, while others swear by Ekster’s quick-access pop-up feature and tracking functionality. 

But which one is actually better for you? Instead of throwing a bunch of specs at you, let’s break it down by lifestyle. 

Whether you’re a minimalist who hates bulk, a traveler who doesn’t want to stress about losing their wallet, a tech enthusiast who loves smart gadgets, or someone who strives to live more sustainably, we’ll help you figure out which wallet is actually worth your money.

And if you’re one of those people who started with a Ridge wallet and is now looking for something better—you’re not alone. Let’s dive in.

The Minimalist: When Less is More (But Still Functional)

Minimalism isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about efficiency. The whole point of carrying a slim wallet is to make your life easier, not harder. And yet, somehow, not all “minimalist wallets” actually succeed at that.

With Ridge, you get a slim, metal cardholder wallet with an exterior elastic band or a money clip for bills. 

It’s compact, sure. But if you’ve ever tried pulling out a single card in a hurry, you know the struggle. It’s a two-handed operation. Cards get stuck. You end up doing this awkward shuffle at the register while the cashier and the person behind you in line stare in silent judgment.

Ekster takes a different approach. Ekster Cardholders are also ultra-slim and made from durable metals. But instead of making you wrestle with your own wallet, it gives you instant access. With one satisfying click, your cards fan out neatly. One hand, one motion, no hassle.

And here’s the kicker: Despite its effortless access, Ekster holds up to 14 cards and cash while staying impressively thin. 

Ekster’s Edge

✅ Pop-up mechanism for instant card access, because who has time to fumble around?

✅ RFID-blocking aluminum cardholder for security without extra bulk.

✅ Holds up to 14 cards and cash while staying impressively thin.

Ridge’s Take

A thumb slot where you manually push out your cards. Not as easy, fast, or satisfying as Ekster’s pop-up function.

RFID-blocking security against wireless theft.

Holds up to 12 cards and bills. The cardholder expands depending on how many cards you add.

Words from minimalists who chose Eskter vs. Ridge

“So, I had a Ridge but I hated it. It was way too heavy and frankly not that functional. Like carrying a tiny brick. Then I came across the Ekster and gave it a go. This wallet is literally perfect for me! It’s lightweight, handles my cards perfectly and I can strap a little cash to it. If you’re on the fence, go for it! You won’t be disappointed. Best wallet I have ever owned.” – Jesse H.

“Had the Ridge but found it too hard remove cards when needed. Ekster’s card release ease is more conducive to my lifestyle.” – Robert S.

Our Verdict: If you want a minimalist wallet that’s super slim and functional, Ekster’s pop-up feature makes life easier.

The Traveler: Built for Stress-Free Adventures

Frequent flyers, backpackers, and road-trippers know that a good wallet isn’t just about size or style—it needs to be practical, easy to access, and most of all, secure. 

As a traveler, you know that losing your wallet in a new city (or worse, another country) is peak anxiety. You’re retracing your steps, checking every pocket ten times over, hoping it’s not sitting in some random taxi or buried in the sand at a beach bar.

With Ridge, if you lose your wallet, well… good luck. Unless you’ve already got an AirTag and chose to modify your Ridge wallet with an AirTag strap, there’s no way of tracking your wallet. 

Ekster, on the other hand, lets you track your wallet in real time from your phone. Pair it with the solar-powered Tracker Card (for Android users) or the rechargeable Finder Card (works with Apple Find My®), and you’ll never lose your wallet again. Both trackers are slim and credit card-sized, so they fit right in your wallet without adding bulk.

Ekster’s wallet trackers can ring your wallet from your phone if it’s nearby, show you accurate map location, and send you left-behind notifications so you don’t forget it and can’t lose it in the first place. 

It’s the kind of feature you don’t think you need—until you need it. And then it’s a lifesaver.

Beyond that, Ekster has an AirTag band for its cardholders, so if you want to attach your AirTag to an Ekster wallet, go for it. 

Ekster also protects against RFID skimming, so you don’t have to worry about some sketchy device lifting your card details while you’re just trying to enjoy your vacation. 

The quick-access pop-up feature also means no more fumbling at airport security or while grabbing a metro pass. Just click, grab, done.

Ekster’s Edge

✅ Tracker compatibility: Pair it with Ekster’s tracking device and never lose your wallet again.

✅ AirTag attachment: A nifty cardholder add-on that lets you attach your AirTag to your Ekster cardholder. If you’re more into Ekster’s leather wallets, check out the Wallet for AirTag.

✅ Quick access design: One click, and your cards are at your fingertips.

✅ RFID protection: Because no one wants to get skimmed while sipping cocktails on a beach.

Ridge’s Take

AirTag strap add-on to attach your AirTag to the wallet.

RFID protection against digital theft.

Slim design makes it pocket-friendly, but accessing cards is not as smooth.

Why people love Ekster’s trackable wallets

"I’m in and out of airports for work constantly, and Ekster has made my life so much easier. Quick card access, RFID protection, and the tracking feature are all must-haves for frequent travelers." – Michael J.

“The tracker feature saved me twice already. Once, I left my wallet at a restaurant, and another time, it was buried in my car. I just pinged it with my phone and found it in seconds. Can’t imagine using any other wallet.” – James R.

Our Verdict: If you’re a traveler, Ekster is hands-down the best smart wallet to keep up with your adventures and eliminate lost wallet stress. 

Forbes named Ekster “The best travel wallets to keep your cash and accessories safe.”

The Tech Enthusiast: The Future in Your Pocket

Let’s be honest—most wallets feel outdated. In a world where you can unlock your phone with face recognition, control your lights with your voice, and pay for coffee with a tap, why should your wallet be stuck in the past?

Ridge keeps things simple—which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. But if you’re the kind of person who lines up for the latest iPhone, you probably want a wallet that keeps up.

Ekster is packed with next-gen features that actually make a difference. Its solar-powered Tracker Card means no charging cables, ever. 

The spring-loaded pop-up mechanism isn’t just futuristic—it’s oddly satisfying (seriously, you’ll find yourself clicking it just for fun). And the build quality? Premium materials like 100% space-grade aluminum and full-grain leather.

Basically, it’s a wallet that feels as modern as the rest of your EDC setup.

Both Ekster and Ridge offer a variety of modular add-ons so you can customize your wallet according to your needs, adding to its high-tech appeal. 

Ekster’s Edge

✅ The world’s first solar-powered Tracker Card that lets you track your wallet from your phone.

✅ The spring-loaded pop-up mechanism feels futuristic and extremely satisfying. It’s a guaranteed talking point when people see your ninja moves.

✅ RFID protection is built-in so no skimmers can access your credit card information.

✅ Premium materials include space-grade aluminum, 3K carbon fiber, and full-grain leather.

✅ Innovative add-ons allow you to customize your Ekster cardholder to your liking.

Ridge’s Take

Solid metal materials, but the design of the Ridge wallet looks more tactical and rugged than Ekster’s modern, sleek build.

RFID protection prevents data skimming.

No built-in tracking, and adding an AirTag means extra bulk.

Add-ons let you attach additional features to your wallet for added functionality.

Customer testimonial about switching to Ekster from Ridge

“I am enjoying my new Ekster wallet. People who see me use it ask about it! Very impressed. I originally had a Ridge wallet for many years. My Ekster keeps me more organized. I was always asking, ‘Have you seen my wallet?’ No longer a problem with my Finder Card.” – Susanne R.

Our Verdict: If you want the best smart wallet that complements your high-tech lifestyle, Ekster is your perfect match.

The Eco-Conscious: A Wallet That Aligns with Your Values

If you care about sustainability, your wallet isn’t just a tool—it’s a statement. The products you buy should reflect your values, and for many, that means choosing brands that are actively working to reduce their environmental impact.

Ekster is a certified B-Corporation, meaning it meets the highest standards for social and environmental responsibility. Every wallet is made with sustainability in mind—whether it’s the 100% recycled aluminum in the Cardholder Pro or the vegan leather wallet for those who want a cruelty-free option. 

No unnecessary waste. Just a better, more responsible way to carry your essentials.

Ridge, on the other hand, considers sustainability when choosing long-lasting materials, but they have no official sustainability certifications. While their metal wallets are durable, there isn’t much transparency about sourcing or environmental initiatives.

If sustainability is important to you, the choice is clear. Ekster is actively working toward a cleaner future, while Ridge is just along for the ride.

Ekster’s Edge

✅ B Corporation certified, Ekster meets the highest environmental and ethical standards.

✅ 100% recycled aluminum Cardholder Pro with no plastic in sight. It’s durable, lightweight, and planet-friendly.

✅ Vegan leather option made from recycled car windshields.

✅ The solar-powered tracker card eliminates the need for charging cables, which reduces manufacturing and consumer waste. 

Ridge’s Take

Use of long-lasting materials to reduce waste, but no sustainability certification.

Why sustainability-focused people love Ekster

"I love that Ekster isn’t just making premium wallets—they’re doing it responsibly. Knowing my wallet is made from recycled materials and not contributing to waste makes me feel even better about my choice." – Sarah M.

"As someone who tries to live sustainably, I appreciate brands that actually take action. Ekster being a B Corp and using recycled materials made my decision easy." – James T.

Our Verdict: If you want a smart wallet that’s as sustainable as it is functional and stylish, Ekster is the clear winner.

From Ridge to Ekster: Why People Are Making the Switch

A lot of people start with a Ridge wallet. It’s got that cool, tactical look, it’s well-marketed and durable. But after a while, the frustrations creep in.

❌ Getting a single card out? Annoying.
❌ Losing your wallet with no way to track it? Stressful.
❌ Cards getting grimey over time? Not great.

Here’s what people are saying after they switched to Ekster:

“I have been using the Ridge wallet for the last few years and I decided to switch to Ekster. I love that the cards easily eject out and you are able to pick whichever card you need.” – J.A.

“I purchased two of the Ekster leather wallets and I have to tell you, I am completely satisfied. The quality and workmanship are second to none. I previously owned a Ridge cardholder and my cards always had a grease buildup, and I was constantly having to clean them. I certainly have not had this issue with my Ekster wallet.” – Rodney A.

“I’ve tried Kings Loot, Code118, Ridge, and Ekster outperforms ALL of them. Holds more cards, and with the money clip attachment, it holds folded cash as well. The push button access slides effortlessly and holds my 6 most useful cards or IDs.” – Steven G.

“The Ekster wallet rules. It has everything I need, including easy card and cash access with the add-on money clip. The tracking card is great as well as the coin tray and multi-tool. Would recommend this wallet to anyone that needs a new one. I like it better than my Ridge for the simple fact of easier card access amongst other things.” – Tim

“I've been a loyal Ridge customer for years, but not anymore! It's so much easier to access the cards that I use the most using the Ekster wallet than it was with the Ridge.” – John W.

“I needed something better than my Ridge wallet because dirt/debris from my pocket gets into my cards and scratches and dirties them. This Ekster wallet eliminates that and makes accessing my cards easy.” – Terry C.

Ekster vs. Ridge: Which Wallet is Best for You?

At the end of the day, your wallet should fit your lifestyle, not the other way around. Here’s how Ekster vs. Ridge wallets stack up.

Minimalist Design: Both brands offer slim, minimalist wallets that fit in your front pocket without adding bulk, but Ekster wins if you’re looking for a more modern, sleek design. Ridge’s designs are more tactical and rugged. 

Card Capacity: Ekster’s Cardholder Pro can hold up to 14 cards, while Ridge wallets max out at 12 cards.

Card Access: Ekster is the clear winner when it comes to fast, effortless access to your cards. Many people switch from Ridge to Ekster for this reason alone. Getting cards out of the Ridge wallet is not nearly as easy or quick. 

Tracking Functionality: Ridge and Ekster have AirTag attachments for wallets. But Ekster’s tracker cards are the real game-changers. They don’t add bulk because they’re credit card-sized, and they offer more versatile tracking options than the AirTag. 

RFID Protection: Both brands include built-in RFID protection in their wallets.

Card Maintenance: Some customers have reported that Ridge wallets don’t protect cards against dirt and grime, which eventually damages their cards. Ekster’s cardholders and wallets don’t have this problem. 

Switch to Ekster Today

If you want a minimalist wallet that actually makes your life easier, a travel companion that won’t get lost, or a smart wallet packed with innovation, Ekster is the way to go.

And if you’ve been frustrated with Ridge, you’re not alone. Making the switch has never been easier. Ekster offers free shipping and 100-day free returns with a money-back guarantee. Try it out risk-free today. 

Try Ekster Risk-Free for 100 Days

FAQ

Ekster vs Ridge: Which wallet is better?
Ekster offers better accessibility, tracking features, and a more innovative design, making it the best smart wallet overall.

Is Ekster better than Ridge for travel?
Yes. Ekster’s tracking compatibility, quick card access, and RFID-blocking technology make it perfect for travelers.

What is the best wallet for men in 2025?
The Ekster Cardholder Pro is a top pick due to its durability, smart features, sleek, all-metal design, and lifetime warranty.

Does Ridge wallet have tracking features?
No, Ridge does not have built-in tracking. You’ll need to attach a separate tracker like an AirTag.

What makes Ekster a smart wallet?
Ekster’s smart wallets come with a Tracker Card, RFID blocking, optional add-ons, and a patented pop-up mechanism for easy card access.

Are Ridge wallets worth it?
Ridge wallets are durable and slim but lack the ease of use and tracking options that make Ekster a better all-around choice.

What is the difference between a minimalist wallet and a pop-up wallet?
A minimalist wallet is slim and compact, while a pop-up wallet (like Ekster) adds convenience with quick card access at the push of a button.