Whether you call it a keyring, a keychain, a key cover, or a key holder, they’re all a must for the modern-day man. Technology has come so far in recent decades, yet one ancient relic that remains very much needed is the humble key. You need keys for everything from your home to your office to your car, your letterbox, and you’ve likely got a spare one for your parents’ house.
The multitude of keys most men carry every day need to be secured in a safe place and that place is a keyring. Like most accessories, keyrings are the unsung heroes of your everyday life; just imagine having to look after six different keys without one!
Clearly, a keyring is an extremely important accessory and hence, worthwhile investing in. As with any other men’s accessories, keyrings are a great opportunity to express yourself as they tell others about who you are, your lifestyle, and quite possibly, your bank balance.
Sounds daunting, doesn’t it? There is so much riding on this small piece of equipment, but fear not, we have found the best keyring brands for you to protect your life’s greatest possessions.
Bellroy
1/16
Price: From $49
Bellroy describes their products as ‘considered carry goods to enhance your everyday’. This perfectly describes their ‘key covers’ that neatly and elegantly allow you to carry from 1 – 8 keys anywhere and everywhere. Their minimalistic design folds up your keys in a small leather pouch with a magnet to keep them tidy.
1017 ALYX 9SM
2/16
Price: From $95
1017-ALYX-9SM is a forward thinking label that encompasses utilitarianism and rugged design cues. Their keychain is no different, featuring nylon webbing and the brand’s iconic ‘rollercoaster’ buckle which looks great. It should perform as good as it looks having been made in Italy to a clinically high standard.
Ambush
3/16
Price: From $260
Ambush hopes to create sophisticated yet unique pieces and their Lighter Key Ring most definitely fits the bill. Not only will you be able to keep all your keys in one place, but you’ll be able to be the guy who lights the cigarette of a smoking damsel in distress. Or, you know, a couple of candles when you get back to your place.
Rick Owens
4/16
Price: From $240
Rick Owens offers a selection of keychains that are very luxurious, without making an OTT song and dance about it. Made from a selection of high quality materials, their pieces are a good way to fly under the radar whilst still maintaining a luxurious aesthetic and feel.
Saint Laurent
5/16
A name that needs no introduction, the Parisian design house offers up some seriously good looking keyrings. Combining silver hardwares and supple leathers, any of the Saint Laurent keychains will offer a timeless and clean cut look.
Off-White
6/16
Price: From $155
The luxury brand founded by Virgil Abloh, Off White is one of the hottest labels around, known especially for its collaborations with all manner of big-name brands. The brand’s keyring range comprises cool contemporary lanyard-style options.
HAY
7/16
If you have ever used the words ‘rugged’ or ‘outdoors enthusiast’ to describe yourself, then HAY’s selection of keyrings are for you. With models that include simple yet secure snap hook designs, your keys will be held in place in functional style.
Bottega Veneta
8/16
Price: From $350
Since 1966, Bottega Venetta has been producing artisanal leather goods in Vicenza, Italy. Their keychains feature their signature intrecciato weave which is a classic and timeless design that is known for both its durability and elegance.
Vivienne Westwood
9/16
Price: From $88
You can always rely on British designer Vivienne Westwood to produce quirky products unlike any other on the market. That’s true of the brand’s keyring selection, which includes hearts, planets, and even, if you’re feeling cheeky, penises.
Smythson
10/16
Price: From $75
Smythson is a traditional British brand that produces leather products to the highest standards. Their keyring designs, whilst often minimalist, mix high quality leathers and metals to ensure that the products both last and look fantastic.
Harber London
11/16
Price: From $74
If it’s a high-quality full-grain leather keychain you’re after then look no further than Harber London. Combining a titanium keyring with a handcrafted loop of leather that can hook onto a belt, it’s the little bit of luxury your keys deserve. Plus, it can be customised with your initials.
Martine Ali
12/16
Price: From $70
In recent years, Maritime Ali has been making waves in the jewellery scene in their attempts to bring back the heavy chains of 2000’s hip-hop. The Brooklyn based firm is refreshing in the keyring game with a selection of pieces that please the eye.
Maison Margiela
13/16
Price: From $200
Maison Margiela takes a unique and creative look at the world of fashion. Their designs are often a far cry from normal which gives them a distinct edgy look. Their keyrings and keychains are sleek and functional, enabling you to clip three keys to anything you please.
Tod's
14/16
Price: From $195
Tod’s are famous for their classic driving shoes. However, Tod’s keyrings, much like the shoes, are well-crafted with leather and feature minimalistic yet classically elegant design. Your keys will look incredibly sophisticated when hung on a Tod’s keyring.
Paul Smith
15/16
Price: From $120
Paul Smith is a man with an eclectic taste; which is why his often colourful designs seem to perfectly blend modernity with traditional. His keyrings and chains feature his signature coloured stripes and feature fun designs including a zebra and a car.
Montblanc
16/16
Price: From $190
German leather brand Montblanc has created a range of timeless keyrings that combine their immaculate leather and metal working skills. Available in a few different styles and colours, any Montblanc keyring just screams elegance.