“Design: This layout is genius. At the moment I've got a dozen cards and 15 bills in mine and it's not much thicker than my traditional Coach bifold -- when it's empty. This of course requires the Herbie to be larger in some other dimension. But when compared to my bifold, it's really only noticeable in height. Placing the bifold in a pocket means placing it spine down, whereas pocketing the Herbie positions the spine vertically. Comparing the two wallets in those positions, they are about equal in width. So entering the pocket is no different. The Herbie just sticks up about an inch more. That's the small price you pay to be able to carry a lot of cards and bills without a fat bulge.
The design is also a plus in that there's no danger of cards falling out even if the slots become loose. Can't say that about a traditional bifold.
Quality: It's probably hard to beat Horween shell cordovan for durability. Ashland's construction also looks top notch, though time will tell. I've had mine only a couple weeks.
Appearance: Again the cordovan. One can expect a nice patina. The extra height does make it look substantially larger than a traditional bifold, but to me the functionality and relative thinness more than compensates. My only complaint is the amount of branding. Opening the wallet means seeing an embossed Horween Cordovan logo, an Ashland logo, and the Horween stamp on the inside of the shell. That feels like one or two brandings too much.”
“First wallet was the natural shell cordovan Fat Herbie and it is terrific. Fits all my cards and easily fits into my back pocket. I wear it proudly and look forward to watching the gradual patina work out.”
“I've only used my Fat Herbie for about a week, but I love this thing. I'm very picky about the layout of my wallet, so I haven't gotten one in a while. I hate when pockets stretch out and cards slide out of the wallet. That can't happen with this layout. The quality and the layout are perfect for me. I tend to carry more cards and papers in my wallet than I actually need. This wallet fits everything easily and still fits into my back pocket with no problem.
I'm really looking forward to seeing how this wallet evolves while I keep using it. I love things that will show the passage of time and miles that I've put into it. I've never been happier with a wallet before.
The only thing that might keep me from using this wallet the rest of my life is if I upgrade when more Private Stock Fat Herbies become available.”
“This a great wallet. I have only carried it for a couple of weeks and it's flattening out and breaking in quite well. The color is darkening. I love the design - I know of no other wallet like it. Plus it's made in the U.S.A. and I like that. The quality is first rate.”
“I generally don’t write reviews., but in this case I feel compelled…
I’ve been wearing my Fat Herbie natural shell cordovan wallet non stop since receiving it in August. It’s become my absolute favourite accessory. I’ve been a money clip guy for the past decade but after watching your videos and looking at your website, I decided maybe it was time to try one of your wallets. I’m sure glad I did., as this thing is just awesome! I’m a bit of a leather nerd, (jackets, boots and such) so having a quality handmade wallet was a no brainer.
It’s starting to break in beautifully and beginning to darken and take on a nice patina. I just love the thoughtful card layout, and the deep, wide money stash. If you’re like me and you still like to carry cash , it’s just fantastic. Also, it should be noted that this will handled any and all paper currencies (at least the ones I’ve come across).
Honestly it’s impossible to improve on the Fat Herbie.
Keep up the great work guys.”