For many years I’ve used a standard trifold wallet as my main way of carrying my “stuff”. It’s served me well over the years, but something that’s always been a problem is the overall thickness of a trifold. Even with minimal items in the wallet, the amount of material alone, creates a package that is quite “bulgy”.

Additionally, as someone who is more active, having all that extra weight on me when running or biking isn’t ideal. Many times I would find myself grabbing a sandwich baggie and just putting a couple cards in there to bring with me when I work out. Plus, I want to keep my stuff from getting too wet and sweaty when working out. A couple weeks ago I decided to take the plunge and get something totally different. 

The Chums Surfshorts wallet is a small pouch style wallet with two zippered areas. One of them has a see-through window for your ID, and the other side is completely closed. Although it does not claim to be waterproof, the closed compartments do keep my stuff dry when sweating or in my pocket when it’s raining. The nylon material is durable, but not abrasive, and feels like it will live up to a bit of abuse.

The biggest change for me though is in the size department. I’m able to put a fair amount of items into this wallet, and it does not feel bulgy or thick at all. I can stuff it into my bike shorts, or my running vest, and I don’t even notice it’s there. I still can’t fit every last thing that I used to carry in my trifold, but it’s made me stop and consider what I actually NEED to be carrying around with me all the time. Most loyalty cards can be loaded into an Apple Wallet, or allow you to use your phone number, and many other cards are used so infrequently that leaving them at home isn’t a big deal.

I’m very happy with the change, and I’m happy I made it. I feel like I have a better handle on what I use my wallet for, and I feel more comfortable keeping my valuables close to me when exercising.