ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet Review
The sleek and durable ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet is made from recycled fabrics and includes RFID protection, a magnetic closure, and a spot for bills.
Our Verdict
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Pros
- Materials feel super strong and protective
- A magnet helps keep the wallet closed and secure when full
- The large cash compartment can fit different sizes of banknotes
Cons
- There's plenty of storage but not a lot of organization
- Some card slots need to be broken in a bit
- No dedicated ID slot
Technical Details
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Weight (oz)
1.76 oz (49.9 g)
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Dimensions
4.13 in x 3.74 in (10.5 x 9.5 cm)
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Notable Materials
Recycled Polyester
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Warranty Information
Buying Options
Full Review
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The ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet is a minimalist, protective, and well-designed wallet ideal for travelers and everyday users who value functionality and style in a compact design. Its small size allows it to be thrown into a sling or a backpack or fit comfortably in front or back pockets. Its large capacity and classic bifold design provide ample storage with a dedicated cash compartment. Despite its sleek profile, it can fit up to 12 cards plus banknotes, making it ideal for those who need to carry multiple cards without added bulk. ALPAKA is known for its innovative everyday and travel gear, and this product is phenomenal for both. It also utilizes recycled fabrics that demonstrate ALPAKA’s commitment to sustainability.
The Rundown
The ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet uses its Axoflux recycled fabric, which is a 300D polyester with a smooth canvas feel that is comfortable in the hand. This fabric gives the wallet ample protection and water resistance while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic with no visible branding on the exterior or immediate interior. The wallet is also RFID-protected, making it ideal for use in crowded areas or during travel.
A magnetic closure keeps the wallet securely shut with a very satisfying snap when closed. While it may initially seem like overkill for a bifold wallet, those with a lot to carry might find it beneficial. The strong magnet helps keep the wallet closed even when stuffed to the max with cards and banknotes.
This wallet includes a large, dedicated cash compartment with a bright interior made from their Axoflux high-vis Orange 210D square ripstop nylon. The only ALKAPA branding on this wallet is on the interior of the cash compartment. While this compartment’s design creates a small hump that prevents the wallet from lying completely flat, it provides ample depth to fit various-sized banknotes without having to fold them and can also be used to store additional cards with ease.
Each side of the wallet features a dedicated card slot capable of holding multiple cards or IDs. In our testing, three to four cards seem to be the limit. However, even four cards feel like it may be pushing or stretching it.
Under these are two more horizontal slots that provide extra card storage. The left side includes a convenient pull tab for quick access to frequently used cards. The right side does not benefit from this feature and is better suited for less frequently used items like loyalty cards.
These horizontal slots can fit three to four additional cards, though accessing them may require some extra work depending on how many are stored. The right pocket, in particular, is ideal for a card-sized smart tracker like the Ekster Finder Card (Apple FindMy). However, it’s worth noting that this tracker takes up most of the slot’s capacity, so you probably will not be able to fit any additional cards alongside it.
Packability
The ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet has a minimal and compact form factor, even when filled to capacity. It is easily pocketable, fitting comfortably into a sling or a backpack. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the dark version may be difficult to locate at the bottom of a dark bag. Aside from that, the wallet’s size allows it to fit comfortably in a pocket, whether in the front or back. Its lack of hardware makes it particularly suitable for those who prefer to keep their wallet in their back pocket, ensuring a comfortable fit when sitting down.
Quick Comparison
Both the ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet and the Garzini Essenziale Magic Wallet offer RFID protection for sensitive contents while maintaining a slim and compact profile. You can comfortably carry these wallets in either front or back pockets without risk of damage or discomfort. However, the ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet includes a dedicated cash compartment, whereas you have to fold banknotes to insert them in the Garzini Essenziale’s slots. The ALPAKA wallet’s design is more self-contained, with all the card slots inside, compared to the Garzini’s, which has card slots inside and out. The ALPAKA’s magnetic snap closure also adds a minor degree of security, ensuring its contents do not slip out unintentionally.
When compared to the Ekster Modular Bifold, both have a traditional bifold design and offer dedicated slots for banknotes and additional cards. They also include RFID protection for sensitive items inside. We find the materials on the ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet more durable, with water resistance and UV protection. This also makes it a better option for those who prefer a leather-free wallet. While the Ekster offers a unique detachable mini wallet allowing for a slimmer, more minimal carry option, this could be a pro or a con, depending on what you are looking for and your tendency to misplace items. Despite their differences, both wallets provide ample capacity for cards and identification.
The ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet is a versatile, protective, and intuitive wallet for those interested in a minimalist yet functional wallet. Its water-resistant fabric, RFID protection, and magnetic closure offer durability and security. At the same time, the dedicated cash compartment and multiple card slots provide ample storage for up to 12 cards and banknotes. Despite minor inconveniences like not lying completely flat and potential difficulty accessing cards in full horizontal slots, the wallet’s compact design makes it easily pocketable. Overall, the ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet combines modern functionality with a classic design, which is ideal for those who value style, durability, and efficient organization in a compact profile.
Usage Timeline
Condition: Excellent
- Magnetic closure seems strong and secure
- RFID and weather protection are nice
- Pull tab is convenient for frequently used cards
Condition: Excellent
- Materials still look brand new
- Card slots required a slight break-in period
- Magnet is still strong
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